Healthy Apple Butter (Print Version)

Slow-cooked spiced apple spread made without added sugar. Perfect for toast, oatmeal, or as a natural flavor enhancer.

# Ingredients:

01 - 6 medium sweet apples (Gala or Honeycrisp)
02 - 60 ml apple cider vinegar (or water)
03 - 1/2 tablespoon ground cinnamon
04 - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
05 - 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
06 - 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
07 - Pinch of sea salt

# Steps:

01 - Place cored and sliced apples (with skin on) into a large slow cooker.
02 - Add apple cider vinegar (or water) and all spices. Stir ingredients together, cover and cook for 5-6 hours on low heat.
03 - When apples are very soft, dark in color and fragrant, turn off the slow cooker. Use an immersion blender to puree until smooth, or carefully transfer to a standard blender.
04 - Return pureed mixture to slow cooker. Cook on high for 1-2 hours uncovered to thicken and caramelize.
05 - Once desired consistency is reached, turn off heat and cool for 30 minutes before transferring to airtight containers. Allow to cool completely before refrigerating.

# Notes:

01 - Apple butter will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or in the freezer for up to a year.
02 - This recipe uses no added sugar, relying on the natural sweetness of the apples.
03 - Perfect as a spread on toast or stirred into oatmeal.