This post is sponsored by Lavazza Coffee.
Two things to note about the week: it’s been overcast and chilly too much and I’m really, really tired (Pipsqueak has more teeth moving in). When it gets cooler outside, I feel inclined to do extra cooking and baking; I love filling the house with delicious aromas. My sister told me about crock pot apple butter at the start of the month and the chill in the air inspired me to make it this week. It was so simple to make and the aroma was mouth-watering. Cue the tired momma. During one of Pipsqueak’s naps, I dropped off into a light, unsatisfying sleep while sitting next to Sweet J on the couch. When I jolted awake, afraid I’d missed something, I wondered who was baking cinnamon rolls. Haha! It took me an extra moment or two to remember it was apple butter in the crock pot but oh, it was a yummy smell. Yes, I need more sleep.
Apple butter is a spread made with apples, sugar and spices and is likened to a more intense, more flavorful applesauce. Using the crock pot makes the process a cinch. Toss everything in the slow cooker and let is cook down to deliciousness. I love apple butter on my peanut butter toast in the morning and with a cup of Lavazza Caffè Espresso coffee, it makes for a good start to the day.
I spooned the apple butter into jars and, to make them extra sweet, used a coffee filter and a bit of ribbon to top them off. They look just like those old time jelly jars with the gingham top. We’ve been so blessed this year with the kindness of friends and family and I’m slowly trying to show how deep our gratitude is. I think this apple butter go a little way in doing just that.
Ingredients
- 4 lbs (12 cups) apples, peeled, cored and sliced
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/8 tsp allspice
- 1/8 tsp nutmeg
- 1/3 cup water
- 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Place peeled, cored and sliced apples in a 4-quart slow cooker.
- Mix the spices into the sugar and stir into the apples.
- Add the water and vinegar.
- Cook on high for 6-7 hours, stirring occasionally. Cook until desired thickness.
- Use an immersion blender or food mill to puree the mix until smooth.
- Allow the mix to cool and spoon into jars. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for up to two months. Apple butter can also be canned.
This month’s coffee is Caffè Espresso. Try it at your house and stay warm!
This post is sponsored by Lavazza Coffee. I’ve partnered with them for a series of post spread over the coming year. All opinions and ideas are my own. Thank you for being supportive of our sponsors.
