Apple Butter

2 qt. pure apple cider
3 qt. peeled and quartered cooking apples (about 4 lb.)
1/4 c. pure maple syrup
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 tsp. ground ginger
1/2 tsp. ground cloves

Bring cider to a boil in a large saucepan. Add apples. Bring to a boil; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, stirring often, until apples are soft. Stir in remaining ingredients. Simmer, uncovered, stirring often, until very little liquid separates from pulp, about 2 hours. Makes about 2 pints apple butter.

Adapted from: Sheryl Heller via rec.food.recipes on Oct 30, 1998.