You are probably wondering how long does apple butter last if you want to keep it as long as possible at home. You are probably one of those people who are into apple butter so much, but you don’t really know how to store it properly or how long it can last. No need to worry. If you understand the facts, the rest would be easy.
How Long Does Apple Butter Last: What You Need to Know
In case you don’t know it, apple butter is basically a spread that is made from apples that have been slow cooked with other (warming) spices, like nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice. Since the apples are cooked in low heat and within a pretty long time, it would be caramelized. The flavor would be concentrated and the result would be somewhat a consistent spread. The already cooked apples would then be blended, pureed, or milled to create the smooth texture, which is basically the signature style of the spread.
So, what’s the difference of apple butter and apple jam? It’s in the texture and color. Apple jam has lighter color and thinner consistency. You can also find fruit bits in it. The apple butter, however, is smoother with warming spices. You can tell there is a nutmeg or cinnamon in it, for taste and smell.
What about applesauce? What’s the difference from apple butter? Applesauce isn’t cooked long, so its consistency is somewhat runnier with less concentrated (apple) flavor. The texture is typically more rustic, having cooked apple’s chunks – unless you puree it.
Proper Storage
So, how long can your apple butter last?
- If you have a homemade type, you can store it in the freezer from 3 months to 12 months. It won’t go bad.
- If you have the storebought type, there are different ways to store it correctly. If it’s still unopened, it can last from 12 months up to 18 months. Make sure that the pantry is dry, cool, and nice. It’s okay if you decide to refrigerate it as it can go for longer time. If you ever freeze it, you can even expect it to stay in good condition, even after 2 years.
However, if you already open the package, you need to store it in the fridge. It will stay good within a month. Again, if you want to freeze the apple butter, you can extend its life cycle up to 2 years. However, if you freeze it, it means that you can’t use it quite often. It’s not advisable that you freeze it, thaw it, and then freeze it again because it may contaminate and damage the apple butter.
Carefully Storing the Apple Butter
If you want to store the apple butter, you can do it in the freezer, refrigerator, or pantry. Use a can, a jar, or a vacuum sealer. Once it’s exposed to the air, it faces bigger chances of spoilage where bacteria can grow.
If you freeze it, it should be kept in a freezer safe container. And leave enough space (around the top area) for the apple butter. It may expand during the freeze, and you don’t want to risk your apple butter to explode. By knowing the proper storage and how long does apple butter last, you should be able to enjoy it without making it go bad.
