apple butter low sugar recipe

apple butter low sugar recipe

The Best apple butter low sugar recipe

I’ve always been a fan of traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations. Apple butter is one of those dishes that has been a staple in many American households for centuries. It’s a simple yet delicious spread made from cooked apples that’s perfect for topping toast, muffins, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries.

I love making apple butter because it’s a great way to use up fresh apples and it’s a healthy alternative to store-bought spreads. My kids adore helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is a great way to get them involved in the cooking process. As a home cook, I appreciate that this recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.

The process of cooking down the apples until they’re smooth and creamy is therapeutic, and the end result is well worth the effort. I like to make large batches of apple butter during apple season so I can enjoy it throughout the year. My family loves it on their toast, yogurt, or even as a filling for pancakes.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s adaptable to your taste preferences. If you prefer your apple butter sweeter, you can add more sugar or honey. If you prefer it tangier, you can add a splash of citrus juice or vinegar.

The possibilities are endless! I also appreciate that this recipe is relatively low in sugar compared to many other recipes out there. Apple butter has been enjoyed by many cultures for centuries, and its versatility makes it a great addition to any meal or snack.

In fact, it’s said that apple butter was originally made by Native Americans who would cook down their apples with berries and other fruits to create a sweet and tangy spread. Over time, European settlers adopted the recipe and added their own twists and flavors.

Low Sugar Apple Butter

Low Sugar Apple Butter

4.9 from 1363 votes

This slow cooker apple butter is naturally sweetened with apples and a touch of maple syrup. It is a healthy, spreadable preserve perfect for toast or yogurt.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time8 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time8 hours 15 mins
Servings: 32Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 25 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Apple Butter

4 pounds apples (such as Gala or Fuji), peeled, cored, and chopped
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the chopped apples and water into a slow cooker.
2Cook on low heat for 8 to 10 hours, or until the apples are very soft and have broken down completely.
3The apples should be easily mashed with a fork and the mixture will look dark and thick.
4Turn off the slow cooker and let the mixture cool slightly for about 10 minutes.
5Use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker to puree the apples until smooth.
6If using a regular blender, work in batches and vent the lid to allow steam to escape.
7Stir in the maple syrup, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
8Taste and adjust spices if desired.
9For a thicker butter, return the slow cooker to low heat and cook uncovered for another 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency.
10Ladle the hot apple butter into sterilized mason jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
11Wipe the rims clean, seal with lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes for long-term storage.
12Alternatively, let the butter cool completely and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker
Immersion blender or regular blender
Mason jars for storage

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 25 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 2mg🌾Total Carbs: 7g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 0g

📝Notes

For a deeper flavor, use a mix of apple varieties. The apple butter will thicken further as it cools. Adjust the maple syrup to your preferred level of sweetness.

Watch Video Of How Low Sugar Apple Butter Works

This low sugar apple butter is always a good idea for any occasion. It works well for family gatherings because everyone can enjoy it, from kids to adults watching their sugar intake.

I love serving it alongside a cheese board for Thanksgiving or giving it as a hostess gift. For storage, keep it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to three weeks.

You can also freeze it in small containers for later use. To reheat, just let it come to room temperature or warm it gently in the microwave.

Serve it on warm biscuits, spread on apple slices, or stirred into hot oatmeal. It is a versatile, healthy spread that brings the taste of autumn to your table any day of the week.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Low Sugar Apple Butter

Q: What type of apples are best for making apple butter?

A: Any variety of apple will work for making apple butter, but some types are better suited than others. For example, Granny Smith apples will give you a tart and tangy flavor, while Gala or Fuji apples will produce a sweeter flavor.

Q: How long does it take to cook down the apples?

A: The cooking time will depend on the type of apples you use and how much liquid they release during cooking. Generally, you’ll want to cook the apples until they’re soft and easily mashed with a fork.

Q: Can I use other types of fruit besides apples?

A: Yes! You can use other types of fruit like pears or peaches to make different varieties of butter. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

A: This recipe is vegan-friendly as long as you use vegan-friendly sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar.

Q: How do I store my homemade apple butter?

A: 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 1 year.

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