low sugar apple butter recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
low sugar apple butter recipe
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The Best low sugar apple butter recipe

I’ve been making apple butter for years, and it’s always a staple in our household. It’s a traditional recipe that originated from European settlers, who would make it to preserve apples during the winter months. The process of cooking down fresh apples with just a hint of sugar and spices creates a rich, velvety spread that’s perfect for topping toast, using as a filling for cakes and pastries, or even as a dip for fruit.

My family loves it when I make a big batch of apple butter, and we’ll often enjoy it on pancakes or waffles on lazy Sunday mornings. One of the things I love about this recipe is how easy it is to make. Simply peel, core, and chop up some apples, then cook them down in a big pot with some sugar and spices until they reach the desired consistency.

It’s a great way to use up any apples that are getting too ripe for eating fresh. The key to making good apple butter is to not be afraid of the sugar. Some recipes call for it, but I find that just a hint of sweetness really brings out the flavors of the apples.

You can adjust the amount to your taste, but trust me when I say that it makes all the difference. I also love how versatile this recipe is. You can make it in large batches and store it in jars for later use, or you can make smaller batches and freeze them for future use.

Either way, it’s a great way to preserve those delicious apples and enjoy them year-round.

Low Sugar Apple Butter

Low Sugar Apple Butter

4.5 from 1193 votes

This low sugar apple butter is a rich, concentrated spread made by slowly cooking apples with a minimal amount of sweetener. It captures the natural sweetness of the fruit with warm spices like cinnamon and cloves.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time2 hours 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours 45 mins
Servings: 32 (1 tablespoon each)Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 25 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Apple Butter

4 pounds apples (such as Fuji or Gala), peeled, cored, and chopped
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup granulated sugar (or sugar substitute like erythritol)
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the chopped apples and water in a large heavy-bottomed pot.
2Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are very soft and starting to break down.
3Remove the pot from the heat.
4Use an immersion blender to puree the apples until smooth, or carefully transfer the mixture to a regular blender and blend in batches until smooth.
5Return the puree to the pot if using a regular blender.
6Stir in the sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
7Place the pot over low heat and cook, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon, for 2 hours or until the mixture has thickened and darkened in color.
8The apple butter is ready when it mounds on a spoon and no liquid separates around the edges.
9Remove the pot from the heat and let the apple butter cool completely.
10Transfer it to sterilized jars and seal tightly.
11Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or freeze for longer storage.

🔧Equipment

Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
Immersion blender or regular blender
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Sterilized jars with lids

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 25 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 1mg🌾Total Carbs: 7g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 0g

📝Notes

For a sugar-free version, use a granulated monk fruit or erythritol blend. Adjust the spices to your taste. The apple butter will thicken further as it cools.

Watch Video Of How Low Sugar Apple Butter Works

This low sugar apple butter is always a good idea for any occasion. It works perfectly for family breakfasts or as a hostess gift.

I keep a jar in my fridge at all times. It is simple to make and tastes better than anything you can buy.

I hope you give it a try and enjoy it as much as my family does.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Low Sugar Apple Butter

What type of apples are best for making apple butter?

For this recipe, you’ll want to use a combination of sweet and tart apples. Some good options include Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, and Gala.

Can I use other types of sugar in this recipe?

While white granulated sugar is traditional in apple butter recipes, you can also use brown sugar or honey if you prefer.

How do I store homemade apple butter?

You can store your homemade apple butter in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 6 months or freeze it for up to a year.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! Simply cook the apple mixture on low for 8-10 hours or until it reaches your desired consistency.

What’s the best way to serve apple butter?

You can top toast or muffins with it, use it as a filling for cakes and pastries, or even dip fresh fruit like apples or pears into it.

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