Old Fashioned Apple Butter Canning Recipe

Inge Malstrom

7 min read

·

Aug 04, 2024

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Old Fashioned Apple Butter Canning Recipe: A Taste of Tradition

Apple butter, with its rich, deep flavor and velvety texture, is a true taste of fall. This traditional treat is a delicious way to preserve the bounty of the apple harvest and savor its sweetness long after the leaves have fallen. While you can find apple butter readily available in stores, there's something incredibly satisfying about making your own. The aroma of apples simmering with spices fills the kitchen with warmth, and the result is a homemade delicacy that's simply unmatched.

This old-fashioned recipe, passed down through generations, is a testament to the simple, yet enduring pleasures of home-canning.

Ingredients:

• 8 pounds of apples: Choose a variety known for its flavor and texture, such as Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, or Honeycrisp.
• 1 cup of water: This helps soften the apples during the cooking process.
• 1 cup of sugar: Adjust to your desired sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon: The classic spice for apple butter.
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg: A warm and slightly earthy note.
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves: Adds a hint of spice and depth.

Equipment:

• Large pot or stockpot: For simmering the apples.
• Food mill or potato ricer: To puree the cooked apples.
• Canning jars and lids: Sterilize these before filling.
• Canning pot: For water bath canning.
• Jar lifter: For safely handling hot jars.

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Apples:

1. Wash, core, and chop the apples into roughly 1-inch pieces.
2. Combine the chopped apples, water, sugar, and spices in the pot.

Step 2: Simmer and Cook:

1. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the apples are very soft and the mixture has thickened considerably.

Step 3: Puree and Strain:

1. While still hot, use a food mill or potato ricer to puree the apples, removing any remaining chunks or skins.
2. If desired, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any excess seeds or pulp.

Step 4: Canning:

1. Sterilize jars and lids: Wash canning jars and lids in hot, soapy water. Boil for 10 minutes to sterilize.
2. Fill Jars: Ladle the hot apple butter into the sterilized jars, leaving a 1/2-inch headspace.
3. Wipe Rims: Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any spills.
4. Place Lids and Bands: Place sterilized lids on the jars and screw on the bands tightly.

Step 5: Process in Water Bath:

1. Fill Canning Pot: Fill a canning pot with enough water to cover the jars by 1-2 inches. Bring the water to a boil.
2. Place Jars in Pot: Carefully lower the jars into the boiling water, ensuring they're completely submerged.
3. Process: Process the jars for 10 minutes, starting from when the water returns to a full boil.
4. Remove Jars: Use a jar lifter to remove the jars from the pot and place them on a clean, dry towel to cool.

Step 6: Cooling and Storage:

1. As the jars cool, you'll hear a satisfying "pop" as the lids seal.
2. Once completely cooled, check that the lids have properly sealed.
3. Store your jars of apple butter in a cool, dark place.

Tips for Success:

• Use ripe apples: Choose apples that are flavorful and juicy.
• Don't overcook: Watch the apple butter carefully during the simmering process to avoid burning.
• Stir regularly: This helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
• Use a food mill or potato ricer: This ensures a smooth and consistent texture.
• Label and date your jars: This helps you keep track of your canned goods.

Enjoy Your Homemade Apple Butter!

Your delicious old-fashioned apple butter is ready to enjoy! Spread it on toast, use it as a topping for pancakes or waffles, or add it to baked goods for a burst of flavor. This homemade treat is a delicious reminder of autumn's bounty and a taste of tradition that's sure to be a favorite for years to come.