Ingredients
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2 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (Gala, Pink Lady, or Fuji work well)
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½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1 tablespoon apple juice, apple cider, or water
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Optional: maple syrup or honey, to taste
Instructions
Add the chopped apples, cinnamon, and apple juice, apple cider, or water to a small saucepan. Stir to coat the apples evenly.
2. Cook Until Tender
Cover the saucepan and cook over low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The apples are ready when they’re soft enough to mash easily with a fork. If the pan looks dry before the apples are tender, add a small splash of water.
3. Mash the Apples
Remove the pan from the heat. Use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash the apples to your preferred consistency. Leave a few chunks for a rustic texture, or blend with an immersion blender or food processor for a smoother spread.
4. Adjust the Sweetness
Taste the apple butter. If your apples aren’t quite sweet enough, stir in a little maple syrup or honey.
5. Cool and Serve
Let the apple butter cool before serving or transferring it to a storage container. It will thicken slightly as it cools.
Notes
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Choose naturally sweet apples: Gala, Pink Lady, and Fuji are great options, so you may not need any extra sweetener.
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Keep an eye on the pan: Low heat helps the apples soften without scorching. Stir occasionally and add a little liquid if needed.
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Make it your texture: Mash lightly for a chunky spread or blend until smooth.
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Let it cool before storing: Cooling helps the apple butter thicken and makes it easier to transfer to a jar.
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Adjust the cinnamon: Start with the recommended amount, then add a small pinch more if you prefer a warmer spice flavor.
