Amish Sweet Potato Butter Recipe Guide

The Amish Sweet Potato Butter is a smooth, naturally sweet spread made with slow-cooked sweet potatoes, warm spices, and gentle sweetness. This traditional Amish-style recipe is perfect for spreading on bread, biscuits, or using as a cozy fall condiment.

1. How to Make

Sweet potatoes are simmered until tender, blended until creamy, then slow-cooked with spices and sweetener until thick and spreadable, creating a rich, buttery texture without dairy.

2. Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup apple cider or apple juice
• ¾ cup brown sugar or maple syrup
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ tsp cloves
• ½ tsp salt

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (for brightness)
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• Honey instead of sugar

3. Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2½–3 hours
• Total Time: About 3 hours

4. Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place chopped sweet potatoes in a large pot and add apple cider.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Blend the mixture using an immersion blender or food processor until smooth.
4. Return purée to the pot and add sugar, spices, and salt.
5. Simmer uncovered on low heat, stirring frequently, until thickened and glossy.
6. Taste and adjust sweetness or spices as needed.
7. Remove from heat and let cool completely before storing.

5. Servings

Makes approximately 3 cups, or about 24 tablespoons.

6. Presentation & Decoration

Serve in small glass jars or ceramic bowls. Garnish with a light sprinkle of cinnamon or a cinnamon stick for a rustic Amish-style presentation.

7. Best Time to Eat

Perfect for breakfast spreads, fall and winter meals, holiday tables, or as a homemade gift during Thanksgiving and Christmas.

8. Portion Guide

• Spread: 1–2 tablespoons per slice of bread
• Baking ingredient: Use ¼ cup per recipe
• Gift jar: ½ cup per small jar

9. Storage & Shelf Life

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 weeks
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 6 months
• Canning (optional): Follow proper water-bath canning guidelines for long-term storage

10. Allergy Guide

• Naturally dairy-free and gluten-free
• Vegan-friendly when using plant-based sweeteners
• Contains no nuts unless optional ingredients are added

This Amish Sweet Potato Butter brings simple ingredients together in a comforting, old-fashioned spread that tastes just as good today as it did generations ago.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Amish Sweet Potato Butter ahead of time?
   Yes, it can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or frozen for up to 6 months.

2. Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar or maple syrup?
   Yes, regular granulated sugar works, but brown sugar or maple syrup gives the butter a richer, deeper flavor.

3. Is Amish Sweet Potato Butter vegan?
   Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free and can be fully vegan when using plant-based sweeteners.

4. How do I thicken my sweet potato butter if it’s too runny?
   Simmer it longer on low heat, stirring frequently, until it reaches a thick, spreadable consistency.

5. Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
   Yes, but fresh sweet potatoes provide a better flavor and creamier texture for this Amish-style spread.