Have a jar of apple butter in your kitchen? Get the answers to your most asked questions about this deliciously spiced apple spread plus what to do with apple butter when you’re tired of eating toast.


Photo college of recipes using apple butter

Fall is here, fall is here! It’s that wonderful time of year.

Apple picking, pumpkin patches, cups of warm cider, leaves changing, cozy sweatshirts.

Mother Nature certainly didn’t miss the memo. Here in Pittsburgh it was in the 80s most of September then as soon as the first day of fall hit, boom all 50s and 60s here on out.

And since apple season is in full swing, you’ll probably see jars of apple butter and wonder what to do with apple butter?

Because I have over 15 apple butter recipes, I thought it’d be a great idea to answer your questions I’ve gotten over the years.

Not only will I explain what is apple butter, I have a list of apple butter uses for you to make, both sweet and savory recipes ranging from breakfast and dinner such as my Apple Butter Rolled Up French Toast to desserts and snacking like my Caramel Apple Cheesecake Dip and Apple Butter Cheesecake.

You may even ask – what can’t you do with apple butter?


Caramel Apple Butter Layer Cake

What is apple butter?

I often hear “Is apple butter the same as applesauce?” Not quite.

Apple butter is a highly concentrated form of applesauce that is cooked until the sugar in the apples caramelize, giving it its dark brown color.

It has a thick, smooth texture spiced with cinnamon and clove that makes it excellent to spread on toast in the morning.

I haven’t posted my recipe for apple butter yet, but in the meantime you can check out this Instant Pot Apple Butter from Foxes Love Lemons.

If you’re interested in making applesauce instead, I have my small batch applesauce you can make.


Apple Butter Gooey Butter Cake

What is apple butter used for?

The easiest way to use apple butter is to spread it on toast or bagel for breakfast. You can add some slices of apple or even banana on top to help bulk it up.

For lunch, you can add some cooked chicken or even turn it into a grilled cheese.


I don’t have time to make homemade apple butter. Can I buy it?

Yes, absolutely! As much as I love to cook from scratch, it takes at least several hours to make homemade apple butter. It’s ok to give yourself a break and buy a jar when pressed for time.


I’m tired of toast. What are other uses for apple butter?

Great question! Apple butter is versatile and can be used as an ingredient in recipes, ranging from breakfast and dinner to dessert and snacks.

Use these 20 apple butter recipes as a guide on what to do with apple butter:

What To Do With Apple Butter

Have a jar of apple butter in your kitchen? Here's what to do with apple butter when you’re tired of eating toast.

Originally published January 8, 2018