Homemade Apple Butter with Red Hots: A Crock Pot Delight
Imagine walking into a kitchen filled with the warm, inviting scent of spiced apples simmering gently. There’s something magical about creating apple butter, especially when it’s infused with a delightful twist—red hots candies. This combination offers not only the classic richness of apple butter but a sweet cinnamon kick that elevates it to a whole new level.
The Allure of Apple Butter with Red Hots
Apple butter, a traditional spread made from slow-cooked apples, is an irresistible autumn treat. The addition of red hots, those little crimson candies bursting with cinnamon flavor, transforms this spread into a vibrant, aromatic delight. But why choose the crock pot method? Simply put, it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, requires minimal effort, and fills your home with a wonderful aroma that speaks of comfort and warmth.
Ingredients & Preparation
To create this cinnamon-infused apple butter, you’ll need a few essentials:
- 5-6 lbs of fresh apples (a mix of sweet and tart varieties works best)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup red hots candies
Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples. Place them into the crock pot along with the sugars, spices, and vinegar. Give it a good stir, ensuring everything is well combined. Cover and let it cook on low heat for about 10 hours, or until the apples are completely soft.
The Red Hots Twist
Once your apples have reduced and darkened into a deep amber hue, it’s time to add the red hots. Not only do these candies impart a warm, cinnamon flavor, but they also lend a beautiful reddish tint to the butter. Stir them in thoroughly and continue cooking for another hour until they’ve completely dissolved.
Smooth and Store
Once your apple butter achieves the desired consistency, use an immersion blender to puree it into a silky smooth spread. Taste and adjust the sweetness, if needed. Transfer the hot apple butter into sterilized jars, leaving some headspace to allow for expansion as it cools.
Creative Uses and Delicious Pairings
While apple butter with red hots is delightful spread on freshly baked bread or toast, its uses don’t end there. Consider incorporating it into your baking recipes—swirl it into muffin batter for a surprise hit of flavor, or use it as a glaze for pork dishes. For breakfast, a spoonful over oatmeal or yogurt adds a burst of flavor, making mornings a bit more special.
For a sweet-savory pairing, try it with sharp cheddar cheese on a charcuterie board. The contrast between the tangy cheese and the spiced sweetness of the apple butter is sure to impress guests.
Embrace the Simplicity and Flavor
There’s something incredibly satisfying about crafting your own apple butter with red hots. This combination not only offers a nostalgic taste but also a creative culinary experience that celebrates the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients. The crock pot method allows for an effortless approach to making this delightful spread, inviting you to indulge in both its creation and consumption.
Ultimately, apple butter with red hots is a flavorful journey worth taking, promising warmth and spice in every bite. So why not invite the cozy comfort of autumn into your kitchen and savor this unique twist on a beloved classic? It’s a simple yet splendid way to celebrate the season and enjoy the magic of homemade preserves.
