Lower Sugar Spicy All-Day Apple Butter

Ingredients and Weight:

• Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): 5 pounds (2.27 kilograms)
• Cinnamon sticks: 4
• Ground cloves: 1/2 teaspoon
• Ground ginger: 1/2 teaspoon
• Red pepper flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
• Water: 1 cup (240 milliliters)
• Maple syrup: 1/4 cup (60 milliliters)

Preparation Time:

• 30 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 8-10 hours

Difficulty Level:

• 2 (Simple)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Peel and core the apples. Cut them into small cubes.
2. Combine the apples, cinnamon sticks, cloves, ginger, red pepper flakes, and water in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 8-10 hours, or until the apples are very soft and have broken down.
4. Stir in the maple syrup and cook for an additional 15 minutes.
5. Remove the cinnamon sticks and puree the apple butter with an immersion blender or in a regular blender until smooth.
6. Store the apple butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 120 per 2-tablespoon serving
• Carbohydrates: 24 grams
• Sugar: 12 grams (from maple syrup)
• Fat: 0 grams
• Protein: 1 gram

Dish Characteristics:

• Sweet and spicy flavor with a hint of heat
• Thick and spreadable consistency
• Can be used as a condiment or spread on toast, waffles, or pancakes
• Contains less sugar than traditional apple butter

User Comments:

• "This apple butter is so delicious! It has the perfect balance of sweetness and spice."
• "I love that this apple butter is made with less sugar. It's still sweet, but it doesn't make me feel guilty."
• "This is the best apple butter I've ever had. I will definitely be making it again."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use ripe, firm apples for the best flavor.
• If you don't have an immersion blender, you can puree the apple butter in a regular blender. Just be sure to let it cool slightly first.
• Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less; if you want a spicier flavor, use more.
• Apple butter can also be made in a slow cooker. Just cook it on the low setting for 8-10 hours.