With its short ingredient list and oh-so-simple steps, this apple butter recipe wins for efficiency and simplicity. It calls for dried apple slices, which are sometimes cheaper to keep on hand.
In a medium-sized pan over medium-high heat, cook apples in enough water to cover until they are soft. When they have cooked sufficiently, drain and cool.
Process cooled apples in a food processor, along with the remaining ingredients, until smooth.
Pour apple butter into glass jars, leaving 1 inch headspace.
Cover the jar with a tight lid, airlock lid, or coffee filter secured with a rubber band.
Culture at room temperature (60-70°F is preferred) until desired flavor is achieved, about 1-2 days.
If using a tight lid, burp daily to release excess pressure.
Once the apple butter is finished, put a tight lid on the jar and move to cold storage.