Apple butter is a tasty, thick spread made from apples. It is sweet and full of flavor. Many people love it on bread, toast, or pancakes. You can make apple butter at home and keep it for a long time. This is done by canning. Canning helps keep the apple butter fresh for months or even years.
What Is Apple Butter?
Apple butter is a smooth, cooked apple spread. It is different from apple jam or jelly. Apple butter is thicker and darker. It is made by cooking apples for a long time with sugar and spices. The long cooking makes the apples soft and sweet. It also makes the apple butter thick like butter.
Why Can Apple Butter?
- To keep it fresh for a long time.
- To store it without a fridge.
- To enjoy apple butter all year round.
- To save money by using fresh apples.
Canning apple butter is easy. You just need to follow some simple steps. You will need jars, a large pot, and good apples.
Ingredients for Apple Butter
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Apples (Granny Smith or Pink Lady) | 4 pounds (about 12 apples) |
| Apple cider or water | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| Cinnamon | 1 tablespoon |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Cloves (optional) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice (optional, for flavor) | 1 tablespoon |
Tools Needed
- Large pot or slow cooker
- Food mill or blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Glass jars with lids (half-pint or pint size)
- Water bath canner or large pot for canning
- Jar lifter or tongs
- Clean cloth or paper towels
Step-By-Step Apple Butter Recipe for Canning
Step 1: Prepare The Apples
Wash the apples well. Remove the stems and cores. You do not need to peel them if you use a food mill later. Roughly chop the apples into pieces.
Step 2: Cook The Apples
Put the chopped apples and apple cider or water into a large pot. Cook on medium heat. Stir often. Cook until apples are very soft, about 30 minutes.
Step 3: Make Apples Smooth
Use a food mill or blender to make the cooked apples smooth. If you like a bit of texture, blend less.
Step 4: Add Sugar And Spices
Add brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, cloves, and lemon juice if you want. Stir well.
Step 5: Cook Until Thick
Cook the apple mixture on low heat. Stir often. Cook until it is thick and dark brown. This can take 1 to 2 hours. To check, put a spoon of apple butter on a cold plate. If no liquid forms around it, it is ready.
Step 6: Prepare Jars For Canning
Wash jars and lids in hot, soapy water. Rinse well. Heat jars in boiling water for 10 minutes to sterilize. Keep jars hot until ready to fill.
Step 7: Fill Jars
Pour hot apple butter into hot jars. Leave 1/4 inch space at the top. Wipe jar rims clean with a cloth.
Step 8: Seal Jars
Put lids on jars. Screw on bands until tight, but not too tight.
Step 9: Process Jars In Water Bath
Place jars in boiling water. Water must cover jars by 1 inch. Boil for 10 minutes. Remove jars carefully with jar lifter.
Step 10: Cool And Store
Put jars on a towel or rack. Let cool for 12 to 24 hours. You will hear a “pop” sound. This means jars are sealed. Check seals by pressing the center of lids. If lid does not move, it is sealed.
Tips for Safe Canning
- Use fresh, good apples for best taste.
- Always sterilize jars before use.
- Fill jars while apple butter is hot.
- Process jars in boiling water to prevent spoilage.
- Check seals before storing jars.
- Store jars in a cool, dark place.
How Long Does Canned Apple Butter Last?
Canned apple butter can last about two years. Keep jars in a cool, dark spot. Avoid direct sunlight or heat. After opening, keep apple butter in the fridge. Use it within a few weeks.