Rustic Caramelized Apple Spread

1. Melt Butter and Combine with Sugar

Start by melting 6 tablespoons of butter in a medium pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add 1 cup of light brown sugar and stir continuously for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined.

2. Prepare Apples

While the butter and sugar are melding together, peel, core, and dice 1.5 pounds of Granny Smith apples and 1 pound of sweet red apples into 1-inch chunks.

3. Combine Apples and Spices

Add the diced apples to the pot along with 1.5 cups of fresh apple cider, 1.5 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 0.25 teaspoons of ground cloves, 0.25 teaspoons of ground allspice, and the split vanilla bean. Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure the apples are evenly coated with the buttery sugar mixture and the spices are well distributed.

4. Simmer the Mixture

Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to let the apples become very tender and start absorbing the flavors.

5. Continue to Simmer Uncovered

After 15 minutes, uncover the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 35 to 40 minutes. The liquid will reduce and the flavors will concentrate, resulting in a rich, caramelized apple mixture.

6. Process the Mixture

Remove the pot from the heat and discard the vanilla bean. Carefully transfer the mixture to a food processor fitted with a steel blade. Pulse the processor about 5 times, until the mixture reaches a chunky purée consistency.

7. Cool and Store

Transfer the apple spread to a container and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. This spread can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.