From Ohio's Amish Country: A Timeless Apple Butter Recipe to Savor

In the rolling hills and peaceful valleys of Ohio's Amish country, simplicity and tradition reign supreme, especially when it comes to food. The Ohio Amish community, known for their wholesome and time-honored cooking, takes pride in their ability to turn simple ingredients into something extraordinary. One of the most beloved staples in an Amish kitchen is the rich, spiced sweetness of apple butter.

Photo bymarketsatshrewsbury.com

Apple butter has been made in Amish homes for generations. It’s more than just a spread—it's a symbol of gathering around the hearth and preserving the harvest of fall. This Ohio Amish Apple Butter Recipe carries with it the flavors of autumn and the warmth of community. With a smooth, velvety texture and just the right balance of spices, it's perfect on toast, biscuits, or even as a glaze for roasted meats.

The Art of Amish Apple Butter What makes Ohio Amish apple butter stand out is the simplicity of its ingredients combined with the careful, slow-cooking process. Unlike store-bought versions that can be overly sweet, this apple butter brings out the natural richness of the apples themselves. Ohio’s crisp, locally-grown apples are cooked down to perfection, with spices like cinnamon and cloves enhancing the flavor.

Making apple butter in traditional Amish communities often means a day spent tending to a large copper kettle over an outdoor fire. While this recipe has been adapted for modern kitchens, it still captures the essence of that slow, methodical process that makes Amish food so special.

Recipe: Ohio Amish Apple Butter

Ingredients:

• 5 pounds of apples (Granny Smith or Golden Delicious work well)
• 2 cups apple cider or water
• 2 cups sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into small pieces. The smaller they are, the faster they will cook down.
2. Cook the Apples: In a large pot, combine the apples and apple cider (or water). Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the apples are soft, stirring occasionally. This should take about 30 minutes.
3. Puree the Apples: Once the apples are tender, use an immersion blender or transfer them to a blender to puree until smooth.
4. Add the Spices and Sugar: Return the apple puree to the pot and stir in the sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and allspice. Simmer over low heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The mixture will thicken and darken as it cooks.
5. Check the Consistency: Once the apple butter is thick and holds its shape when spooned onto a plate, it’s ready. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend it again at this point.
6. Store the Apple Butter: Transfer the finished apple butter into sterilized jars and seal tightly. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 months or canned for longer preservation.

Bringing Tradition to Your Table

Ohio Amish Apple Butter isn’t just a spread; it’s a taste of the countryside and a piece of history. Its versatility makes it a beloved addition to breakfast tables, whether spread over toast or added to oatmeal. Beyond breakfast, try using it as a glaze for pork, adding a rich sweetness to roasted meats that’s reminiscent of old-world flavors.

Whether you’re from Ohio or just appreciate the warmth of Amish cooking, this apple butter will quickly become a favorite in your home. Its combination of smooth texture, tangy apples, and warming spices is comfort food at its finest.

Enjoy the process of making it as much as the eating—just like the Amish do. Slow down, savor each moment, and share the finished product with family and friends. It’s not just about the taste, but the memories made along the way.

Sources:

Amish Apple Butter Recipe: Easily Make Apple Butter At Home (marketsatshrewsbury.com)

Amish Apple Butter Recipe - Amish Heritage (amish-heritage.org)