We have a terrible habit going on in my house right now. My youngest requests more apples whenever I am making my grocery list. I purchase said apples and then notice that they are not getting eaten, they are just piling up on the counter.
I don’t like apples but I don’t like wasting food even more. So yesterday I decided to use all of those apples to make apple butter.
I know I said I don’t like apples but I LOVE apple butter! Apple butter is this amazing spread that is made from apples that have been cooked down to a thick, smooth consistency. It is similar to apple sauce, but is cooked for a longer period of time and has a more intense apple flavor. Despite the name, it contains no actual butter; butter refers only to its butter-like consistency.
It’s a delicious and versatile spread that can be enjoyed in so many different ways. We use it like jam and spread it on toast or biscuits, but you can also use it as a topping for pancakes or waffles. It can also be used as an ingredient in baking, such as in cakes, cookies, and pies, or as a glaze for meats, such as pork or chicken.
The recipe I am sharing is so easy to make. All you have to do is chop up your apples (you can peel them but you really don’t need to since everything will be pureed), add in your spices and sugar, place in a slow cooker or Instant Pot, and cook. The mixture is then pureed in a blender and you’re done! It’s that easy!
Apple butter is SO easy to make and so good! Plus, it’s such a great way to use up a surplus of apples.
Easy Homemade Apple Butter
8 cups apples, cored and chopped
5 teaspoons cinnamon
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons water
3 cups sugar
Combine all ingredients in your Instant Pot. Turn to no venting and set at manual high pressure for 40 minutes.
If using a slow cooker, cover and cook on HIGH until hot, then turn to LOW and cook all day (7 to 10 hours).
When the apples are done, pour the mixture into a blender or food processor and process until smooth. Pour up into mason jars or airtight containers and store in the fridge.