Apple butter is a delicious spread that brings back memories of crisp autumn days and cozy family gatherings. This Kentucky Apple Butter recipe is perfect for those looking to create something scrumptious and heartfelt. It’s rich, sweet, and has a touch of spice that will warm your soul. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps needed to make this delightful treat.
Kentucky Apple Butter
This apple butter is not only easy to make but also a fantastic way to preserve those fall flavors. You can enjoy it on toast, pancakes, or even as a filling for pastries.
Ingredients
- 5 pounds of apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup of sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference)
- 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1/2 cup of water
Instructions
- Start by washing and peeling the apples. Remove the core and cut them into small chunks.
- In a large pot, combine the apple chunks with the water, lemon juice, and sugar, stirring to coat the apples.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then lower to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples are soft.
- After the apples have softened, use an immersion blender or a food processor to blend the mixture until smooth.
- Add the ground cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg to the pot. Stir well and continue to cook uncovered for another hour, stirring frequently. The mixture should thicken and darken in color.
- When the apple butter reaches your desired consistency, remove it from heat. Allow it to cool slightly before transferring it to sterilized jars.
- Seal the jars and store them in the refrigerator or process them in a water bath canner if you intend to keep them for longer.
Enjoy this delightful Kentucky Apple Butter on your favorite breakfast items, or use it as a unique gift for friends and family. It’s the perfect way to savor the flavors of the season all year long!