Easy Apple Butter Recipe Using Applesauce

July 18, 2023 Post a Comment

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SlowCooker Easy Apple Butter with SweeTango Apples from sweetango.com

Description

Apple butter is a delicious spread that can be used on toast, bagels, muffins, and more. It's made by cooking apples with sugar and spices until they caramelize and turn into a thick, smooth spread. This easy apple butter recipe uses applesauce as a shortcut, so you don't have to peel, core, and cook fresh apples. It's a quick and easy recipe that's perfect for beginners.

Prep Time

The prep time for this recipe is minimal. You'll need about 10 minutes to gather your ingredients and equipment and another 5 minutes to measure everything out.

Cook Time

The cook time for this recipe is about 1 hour and 30 minutes. You'll need to simmer the ingredients on low heat for about an hour and then cook them until they thicken and darken.

Ingredients

4 cups unsweetened applesauce
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt

Equipment

Large saucepan
Wooden spoon
Immersion blender or blender
Jar or container for storing the apple butter

Method

Combine all of the ingredients in a large saucepan.
Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it comes to a simmer.
Cook the mixture for about an hour, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and turns a darker color.
Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender and puree until smooth.
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat for another 20-30 minutes, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
Transfer the apple butter to a jar or container and let it cool to room temperature before storing it in the fridge.

Notes

This recipe makes about 2 cups of apple butter.
You can adjust the spices to your liking. Add more or less cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, or salt depending on your taste preferences.
You can also use fresh apples instead of applesauce. Just peel, core, and chop 4-5 apples and cook them with the sugar and spices until they're tender.
Apple butter will keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition Info

Calories: 50
Total Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 25mg
Total Carbohydrate: 13g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Total Sugars: 12g
Protein: 0g

Recipes FAQ

What can I use apple butter for?

Apple butter is a versatile condiment that can be used in many ways. Spread it on toast or bagels, use it as a dip for apple slices or crackers, or add it to oatmeal, yogurt, or smoothies for extra flavor.

Can I freeze apple butter?

Yes, you can freeze apple butter for up to 6 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag and leave some space for expansion.

Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, you can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a slightly different flavor. Just keep in mind that brown sugar will make the apple butter darker and may affect the texture.

Recipe Tips

Make sure to use unsweetened applesauce for this recipe. If you use sweetened applesauce, the apple butter will be too sweet.
Stir the mixture frequently while it's cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan or burning.
If you don't have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender or a food processor to puree the apple butter.
If the apple butter is too thick, you can add a splash of apple cider or water to thin it out.
You can also experiment with different spices and flavorings, such as ginger, allspice, vanilla extract, or lemon juice.