All the fallen apples

As it would go, the kids and dogs playing in the yard would naturally cause apples to find their early demise and fall to the ground. Left alone barely ripe and destined for compost. Until this brilliant idea popped into my mind that I didn't have to let them go to waste after all! I've made apple butter once before, it was okay, not great, but okay. So this time, I tried again. It was - is - heavenly! And seriously, it's the easiest darn thing to make. So give it a try if you have an abundance of apples, because why not? Did I mention there's no sugar? At least not if you don't want any. Except for brown sugar, because I love brown sugar, but it's easily omitted too! So here's a super tasty treat that isn't too bad for ya! It kind of feels like fall, and if you're not ready for that, consider it a spiced summer treat. So good!

Spiced Apple Butter

• 6 (or so) medium apples of your choice
• 1/4 c brown sugar (optional)
• 1 tbs cinnamon
• 1 tsp fresh grated nutmeg (or ground)
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• Dash of salt
• 1 tbs vanilla

If using a crockpot, let cook on low for approximately 10 hours. If using the stovetop, cover and cook on medium until apples become soft, stir occasionally.

Place apples in crockpot or pot. Combine brown sugar and spices, stir into apples. Cook apples until soft, stir in vanilla. Turn off heat. Use an immersion blender (or equivalent) to reach desired consistency. We like it smooth, but slightly chunky is good too! Stores great in mason jars. Serve with toast, pancakes, etc.