Homemade Apple Butter

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F. Combine the apples, apple cider, brown sugar and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a large ovenproof pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

2. 2

   Bring to a simmer, partially cover and cook until the apples are soft, about 20 minutes.

3. 3

   Remove from the heat and stir in the lemon juice, cinnamon, vanilla and cloves.

4. 4

   Puree the mixture in a blender in batches until smooth (or use an immersion blender).

5. 5

   Return the mixture to the pot and bake, uncovered, stirring every 30 minutes, until thickened and deep amber, 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours (the timing will depend on the kind of apples you use).

6. 6

   Remove from the oven and let cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate up to 5 days.

7. 7

   Try it on:

8. 8

   Pancakes

9. 9

   Waffles

10. 10

    Yogurt

11. 11

    Oatmeal

12. 12

    Grilled cheese

13. 13

    PB&J

14. 14

    Biscuits

15. 15

    Cornbread

16. 16

    Pork chops

17. 17

    Photograph by Charles Masters

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.