Apple Butter

Directions

1. 1
   Place the apples, vinegar, water, lemon juice and zest in a large oven-proof pot. Bring to a simmer and cook over medium-low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. 2
   Pour the cooked apples into a blender or food processor and blend until well pureed.
3. 3
   Return the pureed apples to the pot, measuring as you go. For every cup of blended apples that you have, add 1/2 cup brown sugar.* Add the spices to the pot. Cover the pot and put the whole thing in the oven. Cook for 2 to 3 hours at 300 degrees, stirring every half hour. When you stir the pot, taste for sugar and spices; you may want to add more depending on your preference.
4. 4
   Store in the refrigerator, or seal in canning jars to store for months (or years) in your pantry, or give away as Christmas gifts, etc.
5. 5
   *You might want to go easy on the sugar to begin; you can always add sugar as you go.