Jelly, Apple Butter and Machines

Last weekend my husband's parents were in town and we visited a local orchard and purchased a whole bushel of apples!  Half of those they took with them, but the other half I'm using to make apple butter and apple jelly for Christmas.  It's been two years since I've made them because last time it took me hours to peel, core and slice the apples.  

Progressive Apple Machine

Last year I purchased one of these lovely apple machines from www.zullily.com with some of my referral cash (you can purchase them from Walmart here).  This thing is the bomb!!!  I was able to peel, core and spiral slice 20 apples in less than 10 minutes!!!

I still haven't found the time to finish my jelly, but I thought I would share the delicious apple butter recipe with you.  I found it on Pintrest...where all good things come from.  Getting Freedom from Debt originally posted the recipe.  You can find it here.

Crockpot Apple Butter

• I start by peeling, coring and slicing about 20 apples (1/4 bushel).  I have a huge crockpot that holds a ton.  You may have to adjust the number of apples to fit yours.  
• To the pot of apples I added:
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2-3 teaspoons of cinnamon (maybe more - I love that stuff)
• 2 teaspoons nutmeg
• 1-2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste (you can use vanilla extract as well, but I had just enough paste left to finish off the bottle...plus it has flecks of vanilla bean caviar which is oh so pretty!)
• Cook on high for about 4-5 hours.  (Mine was still very watery this time and I forgot to take the lid off and let it cook down some more before putting it in the food processor.  I did put it in a saucepan and cook it down a bit though afterwards.)
• Blend in a food processor until nice and smooth.  

This will keep in the fridge for up to two months, or you can can it in a waterbath style.

To Can

• Wash jars, tops and lids in warm soapy water and let dry.  
• Bring a large pot or dutch oven of water to a boil.  Reduce heat just a smidge.  
• Place a few jars (4-5) in the water bath along with the lids for about 5 minutes to warm them up.  
• Bring jars out one at a time and fill with the yummy apple butter.
• Carefully place the hot lid on the jar and gently screw on the top.  Be careful not to overtighten the top.  Just use your hands to make it secure.
• Place filled jars in waterbath for 10-15 minutes.
• Remove from water bath and let cool.
• Listen for cool *POP* sound signaling the cans are sealed.
• Wrap up in a cute bow and give to friends for Christmas!