Canning Apple Butter For Delicious Sweetness
What is Apple Butter and How to Make it?
Apple butter is a thick, dark spread made with slow cooked apples and spices. It looks like peanut butter, but instead of peanuts, it is made with apples. It is a popular spread on toast and biscuits, and it is a classic part of dishes like apple pie, apple crisp, and apple dumplings. Apple butter can be made in a traditional slow-cooker, or it can be made in a pressure canner for longer shelf life. This recipe is for making an apple butter that can be canned and stored for up to one year.
Ingredients for Canning Apple Butter
To make your apple butter, you will need: 6-7 large apples, cored and chopped into small pieces 1 cup of white sugar 1/2 cup of light brown sugar 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon of ground allspice 1/4 teaspoon of salt 1/2 cup of apple cider
Instructions for Canning Apple Butter
To get started, you will need to prepare your apples. Peel and core the apples, then chop them into small pieces. Place the apples in a large pot and add the sugars, spices, salt, and cider. Stir the ingredients together, then place the pot on the stove over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about an hour, stirring occasionally. The apples will break down and create a thick, dark spread. When the mixture has thickened to your desired consistency, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool.
Once the apple butter has cooled, it is time to prepare it for canning. Sterilize your canning jars, lids, and rings in boiling water. Fill each jar with the apple butter, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace. Place the lid and ring on the jar, then tighten the ring until it is snug. Place the jars in a pressure canner, making sure they are covered with at least 1 inch of water. Bring the canner to a boil, then reduce the heat and maintain a steady pressure of 10 pounds for 15 minutes. Turn off the heat and allow the canner to cool before removing the jars. Store the canned apple butter in a cool, dark place for up to one year.
Tasting Your Delicious Apple Butter
Your homemade apple butter is now ready to be enjoyed. Spread it on toast, biscuits, pancakes, waffles, or even ice cream for a sweet and delicious treat. You can also use it as a topping for desserts like apple pie, apple crisp, or apple dumplings. Enjoy your delicious apple butter and the satisfaction of knowing that you made it yourself.
Tips and Tricks for Making Great Apple Butter
Making apple butter is a simple process, but there are some tips and tricks that can help you make the best possible product. First, choose apples that are sweet, juicy, and flavorful. This will help to make sure that your apple butter is as flavorful as possible. Second, make sure to simmer the apple butter for at least an hour. This will help the mixture thicken and create a rich, dark spread. Finally, make sure to sterilize your jars, lids, and rings before canning your apple butter. This will help to ensure that your apple butter is safe to consume.
Conclusion
Making your own apple butter with a pressure canner is a great way to enjoy a delicious spread that can be stored for up to one year. With a few simple ingredients and a pressure canner, you can make your own apple butter that is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Follow this recipe and you will be sure to have the best apple butter around.