Apple Butter isn't butter, but a thicker, tastier version of applesauce. It's great on toast, bagels, English muffins, used much like a jam. It will make the whole house smell like Fall. It's a great hostess gift to give on Thanksgiving.
6 1/2 lb. apples, peeled, cored and sliced, Fuji, Golden Delicious, McIntosh, or Jonagold are best
1 c. granulated sugar
1 c. light brown sugar lightly packed
1 T. ground cinnamon
½ t. freshly grated nutmeg
¼ t. ground cloves
¼ t. salt
1 T. pure vanilla extract
Start with 6 1/2 lb. apples, then peel, core and slice them; add to a 6 quart slow cooker.
In a medium bowl, combine both sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and salt. Pour the mixture over the apples; stir.
Cook on Low for about 10 hours, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is thickened and dark brown.
Uncover; stir in vanilla; cook uncovered on Low for about 2 hours.
Use an immersion blender to puree the apple butter until smooth.
Spoon the mixture into sterile containers/jars. Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze.
Serve on breads, muffins, pork chops or just eat it with a spoon.
Makes 32 servings/8 cups.
* You can substitute 1 to 1 1/2 T. apple pie spice for the spices.
** This apple butter can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or can be frozen for up to 3 months.