18 Delicious Apple Butter Recipes Homemade

Fall is the perfect time to cozy up with the warm, spiced aroma of homemade apple butter wafting through your kitchen. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, swirling it into oatmeal, or gifting it to friends, our roundup of 18 delicious apple butter recipes offers something for every home cook. Dive in and discover your next favorite way to enjoy this seasonal delight!

Slow Cooker Apple Butter

Zesty and comforting, slow cooker apple butter is a fall favorite that requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. Perfect for spreading on toast or stirring into oatmeal, it’s a versatile condiment you’ll want to make year-round.

Ingredients

– 5 lbs apples, cored and chopped (no need to peel)
– 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
– 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Place all ingredients in the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
2. Cover and cook on low for 10 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. After 10 hours, remove the lid and continue cooking on low for another 2 hours to thicken.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth, or transfer to a blender in batches.
5. Let cool, then store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Packed with deep caramelized apple flavor, this apple butter has a velvety texture that’s irresistible. Try swirling it into yogurt or using it as a glaze for roasted meats to elevate your dishes.

Spiced Apple Butter

Create a cozy fall vibe with this spiced apple butter. It’s perfect for spreading on toast or stirring into oatmeal.

Ingredients

• 4 lbs apples, cored and chopped (use a mix of sweet and tart varieties)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)

Instructions

1. Place chopped apples in a large pot. Add just enough water to cover the bottom of the pot to prevent sticking.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until apples are soft, about 20 minutes. Tip: Mash apples slightly with a spoon to speed up the process.
3. Blend the cooked apples until smooth using an immersion blender or food processor.
4. Return the apple puree to the pot. Stir in sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice.
5. Simmer on low heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and darkens, about 1.5 to 2 hours. Tip: Keep the lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape.
6. Test for doneness by placing a small amount on a cold plate; if it doesn’t run, it’s ready. Tip: For a smoother texture, strain through a fine-mesh sieve before the final simmer.

Hearty and rich, this spiced apple butter has a deep caramel color and a balance of sweet and tart flavors. Try swirling it into yogurt or using it as a filling for pastries.

Apple Butter with Honey

Mouthwatering and simple, this Apple Butter with Honey recipe transforms basic ingredients into a spreadable delight. Perfect for toast, pancakes, or as a sweetener in oatmeal.

Ingredients

– 4 lbs apples, cored and chopped (use a mix of sweet and tart for balance)
– 1/2 cup honey (adjust to taste)
– 1 tsp cinnamon (or more for a spicier flavor)
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup water (to prevent sticking)

Instructions

1. Combine apples, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and water in a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 10 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Tip: For a smoother texture, mash the apples with a potato masher halfway through.
3. After 10 hours, remove the lid and continue cooking on low for another 2 hours to thicken. Tip: Stir more frequently as it thickens to avoid burning.
4. Once thickened, blend the mixture with an immersion blender until smooth. Tip: For a chunkier texture, blend less or skip this step.
5. Let cool before transferring to jars. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Unbelievably smooth and rich, this apple butter boasts a deep caramel color and a perfect balance of sweet and spice. Try swirling it into yogurt or spreading it on a grilled cheese sandwich for a surprising twist.

Maple Apple Butter

Zesty and comforting, Maple Apple Butter combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the tartness of apples for a spread that’s perfect on toast or pancakes. This recipe simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

• 6 cups apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (use a mix of sweet and tart varieties)
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Combine apples, maple syrup, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 10 hours, stirring occasionally, until apples are very soft and dark brown. Tip: If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of water.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. Tip: For a chunkier texture, mash with a potato masher instead.
4. Continue cooking uncovered on low for another 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes, until thickened. Tip: The butter is ready when a spoonful holds its shape on a plate.

Delightfully smooth with a deep caramel color, this Maple Apple Butter boasts a balanced sweetness and spice. Try swirling it into oatmeal or yogurt for a quick upgrade.

Cinnamon Apple Butter

Cinnamon apple butter is a versatile spread that’s perfect for toast, pancakes, or even as a dessert topping. Combine fresh apples with warm spices for a homemade treat that’s both easy and rewarding.

Ingredients

• 4 lbs apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (use a mix of sweet and tart varieties for depth)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on apple sweetness)
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (add more for extra spice)
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves (optional for a deeper flavor)
• 1/4 cup water (to prevent sticking during initial cooking)

Instructions

1. Combine apples and water in a large pot. Cook over medium heat until apples are soft, about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Mash the apples with a potato masher or blend with an immersion blender for a smoother texture.
3. Add sugar, cinnamon, and cloves to the pot. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring every 15 minutes to prevent burning. The mixture should thicken and darken.
5. Test the consistency by placing a small amount on a cold plate. If it holds without running, it’s done.
6. Remove from heat. Let cool slightly before transferring to jars or containers.

Buttery smooth with a deep caramel color, this cinnamon apple butter is rich and fragrant. Try swirling it into oatmeal or layering it in a yogurt parfait for a quick, flavorful twist.

Apple Butter Jam

Whip up this Apple Butter Jam for a sweet, spiced spread that’s perfect on toast or swirled into yogurt. It’s a simple way to preserve the flavors of fall any time of year.

Ingredients

• 4 lbs apples, peeled and chopped (use a mix of sweet and tart for balance)
• 2 cups granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (fresh for best flavor)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp ground allspice
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Combine apples, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and salt in a large pot.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until apples are soft, about 20 minutes.
3. Use a potato masher to break down apples into a chunky sauce.
4. Reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered, stirring frequently, until mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency, about 1 hour. Tip: Stir more often as it thickens to prevent sticking.
5. Test for doneness by placing a small amount on a cold plate; if it gels, it’s ready.
6. Remove from heat. Let cool slightly before transferring to jars. Tip: Sterilize jars beforehand for longer storage.
7. Seal jars and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or freeze for longer storage. Tip: Label jars with the date for easy tracking.

Buttery smooth with a deep, spiced apple flavor, this jam is a versatile condiment. Try it as a glaze for roasted meats or a filling for thumbprint cookies.

Vanilla Bean Apple Butter

Yearning for a twist on classic apple butter? This vanilla bean version adds a luxurious depth to your morning toast or oatmeal.

Ingredients

• 4 lbs apples, peeled and chopped (use a mix of sweet and tart for balance)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on apple sweetness)
• 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped (or 1 tbsp vanilla extract)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions

1. Combine apples, sugar, vanilla bean seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and water in a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 10 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Tip: For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender before the final hour.
3. Remove the lid and cook for an additional 1-2 hours on low to thicken. Tip: The butter is ready when it mounds on a spoon without dripping.
4. Let cool slightly, then transfer to jars. Tip: For longer storage, process jars in a water bath for 10 minutes.

Keeps the rich, velvety texture of traditional apple butter but with a fragrant vanilla undertone. Try swirling into yogurt or layering in a parfait for a decadent treat.

Apple Butter with Bourbon

Create a rich, flavorful spread that combines the sweetness of apples with the warmth of bourbon. Perfect for toast, pancakes, or as a unique gift.

Ingredients

• 4 lbs apples, peeled and chopped (use a mix of sweet and tart varieties)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on apple sweetness)
• 1/2 cup bourbon (choose a quality brand for depth of flavor)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed for brightness)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (or more to taste)
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves (adds warmth)
• 1/4 tsp salt (enhances flavors)

Instructions

1. Combine apples, sugar, bourbon, lemon juice, cinnamon, cloves, and salt in a large pot.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until apples are soft, about 20 minutes.
3. Use a potato masher to break down apples into a chunky sauce.
4. Reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered, stirring frequently, until mixture thickens and darkens, about 1.5 hours. Tip: A splatter screen can prevent mess.
5. For a smoother texture, blend with an immersion blender until desired consistency is reached. Tip: Leave some chunks for texture.
6. Let cool slightly before transferring to jars. Tip: Sterilize jars for longer storage.

Lusciously thick and deeply flavored, this apple butter with bourbon is a versatile condiment. Try it swirled into yogurt or as a glaze for roasted meats.

Apple Butter Pie Filling

Got a craving for something sweet and spiced? Apple Butter Pie Filling combines the rich flavors of apple butter with a hint of cinnamon for a decadent dessert base. Perfect for pies, tarts, or even as a pancake topping.

Ingredients

• 2 cups apple butter (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (or any neutral oil)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if using the filling for a baked pie.
2. In a medium bowl, combine apple butter, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Mix well to ensure spices are evenly distributed.
3. Add lemon juice to the mixture and stir to combine. The acidity balances the sweetness.
4. Pour in melted butter and mix thoroughly. This adds richness to the filling.
5. If using immediately, pour the filling into your pie crust and bake as directed. For storage, cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container.

Lusciously smooth with a deep, spiced apple flavor, this filling shines in a flaky crust. Try layering it with whipped cream for an easy parfait.

Apple Butter BBQ Sauce

Honey, apple butter BBQ sauce is a game-changer for your grilling. It’s sweet, tangy, and packs a punch.

Ingredients

– 1 cup apple butter (homemade or store-bought) – 1/2 cup ketchup (for a smoother sauce) – 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (adjust to taste) – 2 tbsp brown sugar (packed, for depth) – 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (adds umami) – 1 tsp smoked paprika (for smokiness) – 1/2 tsp garlic powder (or fresh minced) – 1/2 tsp onion powder (for sweetness) – 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir to blend. 2. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. 3. Taste and adjust seasoning with more vinegar or cayenne if desired. 4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using. The sauce will thicken as it cools. 5. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Best served at room temperature. Bold flavors make this sauce perfect for ribs, chicken, or even as a dip. Its thick, glossy texture clings beautifully to meat.

Apple Butter Pancakes

Venture into a cozy breakfast with these Apple Butter Pancakes, blending the warmth of apple butter into fluffy, golden pancakes. Perfect for a lazy weekend morning or a quick weekday treat.

Ingredients

– 1 cup all-purpose flour (for lighter pancakes, substitute half with whole wheat flour)
– 1 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
– 2 tsp baking powder (ensure it’s fresh for maximum rise)
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup milk (any type, but whole milk adds richness)
– 1 large egg (room temperature blends better)
– 2 tbsp melted butter (or any neutral oil)
– 1/2 cup apple butter (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional for extra flavor)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, beat the milk, egg, melted butter, apple butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; lumps are okay.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat (350°F if using an electric griddle).
5. Pour 1/4 cup batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Flip the pancakes. Cook until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes more.
7. Repeat with remaining batter, adjusting heat as needed to prevent burning.

Rich in flavor with a tender crumb, these pancakes are a delightful twist on the classic. Serve stacked high with a dollop of apple butter and a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra indulgent breakfast.

Apple Butter Muffins

Simple to make and packed with flavor, these Apple Butter Muffins are a perfect grab-and-go breakfast or snack. They combine the rich taste of apple butter with a tender muffin crumb.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup apple butter (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease lightly.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix apple butter, milk, oil, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool in pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

These muffins are moist with a subtle spice from the apple butter. Serve warm with a dab of butter or a drizzle of caramel for extra indulgence.

Apple Butter Bread

Nothing beats the comforting aroma of Apple Butter Bread wafting through your kitchen. This recipe delivers a moist, flavorful loaf with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon (or more for extra spice)
• 1 cup apple butter (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1/2 tbsp vinegar)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In another bowl, mix apple butter, buttermilk, egg, and oil until smooth.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Tip: Overmixing leads to a tough loaf.
5. Transfer batter to prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Tip: Cover with foil if top browns too quickly.
7. Cool in pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Tip: Slicing warm bread can be messy.

The bread is dense yet tender, with a rich apple flavor. Serve toasted with a smear of cream cheese for a delightful twist.

Apple Butter Cookies

Perfect for fall, these apple butter cookies blend warm spices with a soft, chewy texture. They’re a quick bake with pantry staples.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (or margarine)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup apple butter (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon (adjust to taste)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Add egg, vanilla, and apple butter to the butter mixture. Beat until combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just incorporated. Do not overmix.
6. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

These cookies are soft with a slight chew and packed with apple flavor. Try serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Apple Butter Cheesecake

This apple butter cheesecake combines creamy richness with the deep, spiced flavor of apple butter. Perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for greasing)
• 24 oz cream cheese, room temperature (use full-fat for best texture)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup apple butter (homemade or store-bought, no chunks)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for extra spice)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter.
2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool slightly.
3. Beat cream cheese and 3/4 cup sugar on medium speed until smooth, about 3 minutes. Scrape down sides as needed.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating just until blended after each. Overmixing can cause cracks.
5. Stir in apple butter, vanilla, and cinnamon (if using) until fully incorporated. Pour over crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, until edges are set but center still jiggles slightly. Turn off oven; leave door slightly open for 1 hour.
7. Chill cheesecake in fridge for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.

Rich and velvety, this cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel. The apple butter adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.

Apple Butter Ice Cream

Mixing the warmth of apple butter with the coolness of ice cream creates a dessert that’s both comforting and refreshing. This Apple Butter Ice Cream recipe is straightforward, requiring no churn, and delivers rich flavors with minimal effort.

Ingredients

– 2 cups heavy cream (chilled for best results)
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk (chilled)
– 1/2 cup apple butter (homemade or store-bought, adjust to taste)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract (pure for best flavor)
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional, for extra spice)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, about 3-4 minutes. Tip: Ensure the bowl and beaters are cold to help the cream whip faster.
2. Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk until fully combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the mixture light.
3. Add the apple butter, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using) to the cream mixture. Fold gently until just swirled. Tip: For a marbled effect, do not overmix.
4. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or airtight container. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the ice cream to prevent ice crystals.
5. Freeze for at least 6 hours, or until firm. Tip: For easier scooping, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving.
Creamy with a hint of spice, this Apple Butter Ice Cream is a delightful twist on classic flavors. Serve it sandwiched between ginger cookies for an autumnal treat or drizzle with caramel for extra decadence.

Apple Butter Smoothie

Now, let’s blend up a creamy Apple Butter Smoothie that’s perfect for any time of day. This recipe combines the rich flavors of apple butter with the freshness of bananas and almond milk for a smoothie that’s both nutritious and indulgent.

Ingredients

– 1 cup almond milk (unsweetened for less sugar)
– 1/2 cup apple butter (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 frozen banana (peel before freezing for easier blending)
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon (adjust to taste)
– 1 tbsp honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
– 1 cup ice cubes (for thickness)

Instructions

1. Pour 1 cup of almond milk into the blender first to facilitate smooth blending.
2. Add 1/2 cup of apple butter to the blender.
3. Place 1 frozen banana into the blender. Tip: Freezing bananas in chunks can speed up blending.
4. Sprinkle 1/2 tsp of cinnamon over the ingredients for a warm spice note.
5. If using, drizzle 1 tbsp of honey over the top for added sweetness.
6. Add 1 cup of ice cubes last to ensure a thick, frosty texture.
7. Blend on high for 45-60 seconds until completely smooth. Tip: Stop and scrape down the sides if necessary to incorporate all ingredients.
8. Pour into a glass immediately and enjoy. Tip: For an extra touch, garnish with a light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of apple butter.
The smoothie boasts a velvety texture with a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Try serving it with a side of granola for a satisfying crunch.

Apple Butter Oatmeal

Apple butter oatmeal is a cozy, flavorful breakfast that’s ready in minutes. A perfect blend of sweet and spicy, it’s a hearty way to start your day.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats (quick oats work too)
• 1 1/2 cups water (or milk for creamier texture)
• 1/4 cup apple butter (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon (adjust to taste)
• Pinch of salt (enhances flavors)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil over high heat.
2. Stir in oats, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add apple butter, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, until oatmeal reaches desired thickness.
5. Remove from heat. Let stand for 1 minute to thicken further.
6. Serve warm, topped with brown sugar if desired.

Makes for a creamy, spiced oatmeal with a deep apple flavor. Try topping with chopped nuts or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra crunch and sweetness.

Conclusion

Unquestionably, this roundup of 18 delicious apple butter recipes offers a treasure trove of homemade goodness perfect for any home cook in North America. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a kitchen newbie, there’s a recipe here to inspire your next culinary adventure. We’d love to hear which one becomes your favorite—drop us a comment below and don’t forget to share the love on Pinterest!

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