There is no mystery to making excellent, old time apple butter, nor do you have to be a graduate from the culinary academy.  Such things use to be a part of the day to day chores of every homemaker.  No, you are most likely not going to want to spend all your free time peeling apples, but for that occasional old time treat, a bit of homemade apple butter can be a very special thing.  Try it on toast.

What's the difference between Applesauce and Applebutter?  Not much.  Applebutter is thicker and darker than applesauce and has more concentrated flavor.  To make apple butter you begin with Applesauce.  Once you have made the apple sauce, all you do is continue cooking it, uncovered, over a low heat on top of the stove or in the oven until it has reduced to about half its original volume.  Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.  If you have a slow cooker, so much the better.  Again, I suggest that you freeze it instead of canning it.