Healthy Apple Butter
The first spoonful of this silky apple butter tastes like autumn wrapped in a jar. Sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and a slow simmer transform into a thick, spreadable treat all without a single spoonful of sugar. You’ll want to slather it on toast, swirl it into oatmeal, and sneak it straight from the jar.
Ingredients
- 6 medium apples Gala, Honeycrisp, or Fuji
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or water
- 1/2 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
Slow Cooker Method:
- Core and slice apples (no need to peel) and place in slow cooker.
- Add vinegar or water, sprinkle in spices, and stir.
- Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours until apples are deep brown and soft.
- Blend until smooth using immersion blender or regular blender.
- Cook uncovered on high for 1 to 2 hours until thickened.
Stovetop Method:
- Add apples, vinegar or water, and spices to a large pot.
- Simmer on medium-low, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender and fragrant.
- Blend until smooth, then return to pot and cook on low until thick and caramelized, stirring often.
Notes
Leave the peels on for extra flavor and fiber. Add a drizzle of maple syrup if apples are too tart. Adjust spices to taste. This apple butter is freezer-friendly, and also perfect for gifting. Try spooning it over warm apple fritters or swirling into your morning oats.