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Spiced Crab Apples

Deliciously Spiced Crab Apples – A Canning Recipe You’ll Use Every Fall

  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 pint jars 1x

Description

Spiced Crab Apples are an old-fashioned fall favorite that transform tart crab apples into sweet, tangy, and aromatic delights. Infused with cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, these jewel-toned apples are perfect for canning, gifting, or serving with roasted meats. It’s a classic, cozy recipe that captures the essence of autumn in every jar.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 pounds fresh crab apples (washed, stems intact)
  • 3 cups apple cider vinegar
  • 5 cups water
  • 5 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 tablespoon whole cloves
  • 1 tablespoon whole allspice
  • Optional: 1 lemon, thinly sliced (for brightness and color)

Instructions

  1. Clean and prep apples: Wash crab apples thoroughly, remove leaves, and keep stems intact to help them hold their shape.
  2. Prepare the syrup: In a large pot, combine vinegar, water, sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and allspice. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Cook the apples: Add crab apples to the hot syrup and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until tender but not falling apart.
  4. Pack and can: Using a slotted spoon, transfer apples into sterilized jars. Pour hot syrup over the fruit, leaving ½ inch headspace. Wipe rims, seal, and process jars in a boiling water bath for 20 minutes.
  5. Cool and store: Let jars cool for 12–24 hours. Check seals and store in a cool, dark place for up to 12 months.

Notes

  • Use firm, blemish-free green crab apples for best texture and flavor.
  • Do not overcook—the apples should remain intact but tender.
  • Always use sterilized jars and lids for safe long-term storage.
  • Try adding lemon slices for a bright, tangy finish and color retention.
  • Spiced syrup can be reused for pears, plums, or peaches.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Canning, Preserves, Fall Recipes
  • Method: Boiling Water Bath
  • Cuisine: American, Homestyle

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 jar (about 1 cup apples)
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 42g
  • Sodium: 15mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Spiced Crab Apples, Canned Crab Apples, Crabapple Recipe, Fall Canning, Pickled Crab Apples, Old Fashioned Preserves, Apple Recipes

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Find it online: https://lyndyskitchen.com/spiced-crab-apples/