Apple Butter - apples

Method

• Peel and core the apples, then cut them into 1 inch chunks.
• (Don't worry about making them perfectly sized).
• Place the apples in a large, nonreactive saucepan and pour the cider over them.
• Cover the pot and cook for about 30 minutes over low heat or until the apples are soft.
• Cool the mixture until it is only warm to the touch.
• Divide it into two batches and puree each in the bowl of a food processor or blender.
• (At this point, you will have an unsweetened applesauce, which makes excellent baby food).
• Pour all of the pureed fruit into a 13 x 9 x 2 inch baking dish, spread evenly.
• Sprinkle with the apple pie spice, and stir well.
• Bake in a preheated 300 degree oven for 2 to 3 hours or until your apple butter is deep brown and thick.
• Stir the puree every 20 minutes.
• Cool the apple butter and then scoop it into a clean jar with a sealable lid.
• It will keep for up to 2 months in your refrigerator.
• Spread it on toast, crackers, or sandwiches.