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Chef John's Apple Butter

Chef John’s Apple Butter


  • Author: Jackson Walker
  • Total Time: 10 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 10 cups 1x

Description

Rich, velvety, and packed with deep apple flavor, this doubled apple butter recipe makes enough to share—or stock your fridge for fall. Slow-cooked to caramelized perfection and spiced just right, we’re adding a splash of vanilla, a pinch of cloves, and a dash of bourbon for an elevated twist that’s downright addictive. Spread it on biscuits, pair it with cheese, or swirl it into oatmeal.


Ingredients

Scale

10 lbs Granny Smith apples, cored and cut into 1-inch chunks

3 cups white sugar

1 cup brown sugar

2 tsp salt

4 tsp ground cinnamon

¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg

1 tsp ground allspice

¼ tsp ground cloves (optional, adds warmth)

½ cup apple cider vinegar

1 cup water

1 tbsp vanilla extract (adds depth)

2 tbsp bourbon (optional but lovely)


Instructions

Place apples, sugars, salt, and spices in a large slow cooker or heavy-bottomed pot. Add vinegar and water. Stir well to combine.

Cover and cook on low heat for 9–10 hours, stirring occasionally, until apples are soft and deep brown.

Remove lid and blend with an immersion blender until smooth (or cool slightly and puree in batches in a blender).

Stir in vanilla and bourbon. Cook uncovered on low for 30–60 minutes more until thickened to your liking.

Let cool, then transfer to jars. Store in fridge for up to 3 weeks or freeze for longer storage.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 hours

Nutrition

  • Calories: 40 / Serving
  • Sugar: 9g / Serving
  • Carbohydrates: 10g / Serving
  • Fiber: 1g / Serving