Make Your Own Seasonal Spreads

Aug. 24, 2011 -- intro: Have you ever thought of making a seasonal pear or apple butter, but you weren't sure how to get started? Amy Green, the author of "Simply Sugar and Gluten Free," is here to help with her favorite spread recipes. You can also go see Amy at the Gluten & Allergy Free Expo, October 1-2, 2011. With fall almost here, it is the perfect time to make use of all your apples and pears.

quicklist:category:title: Apple Butterurl: text: Apple butter brings back great childhood memories. My Grandma Ruth made the world's best. I hesitantly sent her a few jars of mine for Christmas a few years ago, a little fearful that my version might not measure up. She was thrilled with the flavor and couldn't believe I didn't use white sugar. Use apples that are naturally sweeter, like Gala, for the best result.

If you've never canned anything before, this is a simple place to start. You don't need to use a pressure cooker canner. Instead, use a water bath canner. I use half-pint or quarter-pint jars and process filled jars for 10 minutes.

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quicklist:category: title: Pear Butterurl: text: Fall is the perfect time to make pear butter. It's incredibly chic and makes a perfect gift for the holidays. The combination of orange and cardamom is one of my favorite flavor pairings. Use this spread just like you'd use apple butter.

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