Lebkuchen Apple Butter

Delicious slow cooker apple butter with the flavor of Christmas. It comes from the spices of German gingerbread, called lebkuchen. Not a family recipe, but it will be in 2 more generations. Keeps for 7 to 10 days when opened. Refrigerate after opening.

• Preparation Time: 30 mins
• Cooking Time: 10 hr
• Total Time: 10 hr 30 mins
• Calories: 22 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 2 cups water, or as needed
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 16 cups coarsely chopped apples

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Combine 4 cups apples and 1/2 cup water in a high-powered blender; puree until smooth. Pour into a large slow cooker. Repeat with remaining apples and water.

Step 2

Stir honey, cocoa powder, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves into the apple puree in the slow cooker.

Step 3

Cook on High, stirring occasionally, until thickened and brown, about 10 hours.

Step 4

Immerse six 1-pint jars in simmering water for 5 minutes. Wash lids and rings in warm soapy water.

Step 5

Pack apple butter into hot jars, filling to within 1/4 inch of the top. Run a clean knife or thin spatula around the insides of the jars after they have been filled to remove any air bubbles. Wipe rims with a moist paper towel to remove any food residue. Top with lids and screw on rings.

Step 6

Place a rack in the bottom of a large stockpot and fill halfway with water. Bring to a boil and lower jars 2 inches apart into the boiling water using a holder. Pour in more boiling water to cover jars by at least 1 inch. Bring the water to a rolling boil, cover the pot, and process for 10 minutes.

Step 7

Remove the jars from the stockpot and place onto a cloth-covered or wood surface, several inches apart, for 24 hours. Press the center of each lid with a finger to ensure the seal is tight and the lid does not move up or down. Store in a cool, dark area.