Homemade Apple Butter

With only three main ingredients in the recipe—apples, water and sugar—apple butter is an easy project for families after a great visit to one of the many area orchards. Not only is it low in sugar, it makes a great topping for breads, rolls, ice cream and cakes.

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Ingredients

1 pound any variety apples, washed, quartered and cored

1/2 cup water

1/2 to 1 cup sugar

3/4 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ginger

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1/8 teaspoon cloves

Directions

In a medium saucepan, combine apples and water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to very low and simmer until apples look like applesauce, stirring occasionally.
Pass the puree through a sieve or food mill. Mix the strained puree with the sugar and spices.
Place sweetened pulp in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 20 minutes at a time, stirring frequently until thick enough so the butter doesn't run off a spoon when turned upside down.
Parents should place hot butter in hot sterilized jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Cover with hot sterilized lids and rings. Remove to counter and allow to cool before storing in a cool, dry, dark place. The butter can be kept refrigerated for up to three weeks or frozen for up to one year.

Makes 1 pint of Apple Butter

Prep Time: 5 minutes