Smoked Apple Butter Recipe with Thyme & Maple Syrup

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Yield: 1 ½ cups

Ingredients:

• 4 cups North Coast Organic Applesauce (or any organic applesauce)

• ½ cup apple juice (use fresh or store-bought)

• ¼ cup pure maple syrup (for natural sweetness)

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (adds a warm, comforting flavor)

• A pinch of salt (balances the sweetness)

• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (adds creaminess)

• ½ cup apple butter (for extra richness)

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or dried thyme (for an herby touch)

Optional (for added flavor):

• Smoking gun or smoker (to infuse smoky flavor into the apple butter)

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Instructions:

1. Cook the Apple Butter:
   In a large saucepan, combine 4 cups of organic applesauce, ½ cup apple juice, ¼ cup pure maple syrup, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
   Simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and becomes a rich, smooth apple butter. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Infuse with Smoke (Optional):
   For an extra layer of flavor, use a smoking gun or smoker to infuse the apple butter with a smoky aroma. Smoke for about 20 to 30 minutes and let the apple butter sit in the smoke to absorb the flavors.

3. Prepare the Butter Mixture:
   Transfer the apple butter to a mixing bowl. Add 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter, ½ cup of apple butter, and 1 tablespoon of fresh or dried thyme.
   Mix well until smooth and fully combined, creating a rich and flavorful apple butter blend.

4. Chill and Serve:
   Wrap the apple butter mixture in parchment paper and place it in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or until it’s firm and ready to use.

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Serving Suggestions:

This versatile smoked apple butter pairs beautifully with:

• Pork chops: Slather on grilled or pan-seared pork chops for a sweet and savory contrast.

• Pork tenderloin: Roast a tender pork loin and top with a generous layer of smoked apple butter for added richness.

• Roast chicken: Rub this apple butter onto a whole chicken before roasting for a unique, savory twist.

Enjoy your smoked apple butter with these savory dishes for a flavorful, aromatic meal!