Homemade Apple Butter

I used up the rest of the apples from our apple tree this weekend in the best way I knew how…homemade apple butter! It could not be easier to make and it makes the whole house smell amazing. There are so many ways to use this homemade apple butter: On toast, of course or you can spread it on scones or muffins, shake it up in a cocktail, swirl it into homemade baked goods, use it on your holiday cheese board or spread it on a ham and brie sandwich. You’ll be happy to have this in your refrigerator all season long.
Ingredients:
- 4 pounds apples, cored and diced (keep the skin on)
- 2 1/4 cups apple cider
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 2 tbsp dark brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
Directions:
Place all ingredients in a heavy bottom pot on the stove over high heat. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer and cook stirring occasionally until the apples are soft and falling apart, about 35-40 minutes. Add more apple cider as it cooks to keep the apples in liquid if needed. Place the apple mixture in the blender and blend until smooth. Return the blended apple mixture to the pot and cook over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring every few minutes until thickened. It will splatter a bit so be careful. Taste and add more maple syrup if needed. Pour the apple butter into jars of your choice, put the lids on loosely and let cool completely on the counter. Tighten the lid and store in the refrigerator for up to a month.