The apple (butter) of my eye

Training: Bike 61km

Today was all about two things I love (as quite appropriately reflected in the name of this blog….) biking and baking!

But first things first…

This morning I woke to glorious sunny skies and after leaving Mr BBB with the task of buying a couple kilograms of apples (more on that in a minute), I hit the road for my ‘long’ ride of the week.

  

  

I rode the 16km to the city, where I met another member of my tri club, and we headed out to tackle some hills.

Lots of hills. But hey – at least the views at the top were a wonderful reward.

Overall I completed 61km in around 2 hours 40 minutes, and arrived home hot, thirsty and, unfortunately, a little sunburnt :(

Not happy about those tan lines >:(

After a quick lunch …

Spelt bread, tuna, zucchini and cheese..

And a side of dates (x3), it was on to my second ‘job’ for the day, a little baking!

Inspired by the Mystery Box…

Apples!

         

And what better way to showcase this wonderful ingredient than by making apple butter!

Into a  pan went2.2kg of peeled, chopped apples (I used granny smiths).

Along with a cup of sparkling apple juice.

Cooked on a low heat until the apples had softened (an hour or so).

Then blended until smooth.

At this stage I transferred the pureed apples into my slow cooker, with 1/8 cup agave nectar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tbs cinnamon and 1/2 tbs all spice.

  

And let the mixture cook on low for 4 hours until thick and glossy.

Once cooled, I spooned the mixture into a jar, and was amazed at how easy yet delicious little treat was.

 

Rich and luscious, and I am already dreaming up ways to use this wonderful apple butter in the next few days.

 

     

Served in a jar, with a label and ribbon – and  you also have a pretty tasty Christmas gift!

  

    

Or if you are like me, keep the whole jar and start dreaming of apple desserts … and cures for sunburn :(

Happy Baking :)