Ham & Apple Butter Sliders Recipe

1. Cook the Apples

Peel, core, and chop 6 medium apples. Place them in a large saucepan over medium heat with 1/2 cup of apple cider or water. Cover and cook until the apples are very soft, about 20-25 minutes.

2. Blend and Season

Use an immersion blender or transfer the cooked apples to a blender to puree until smooth. Return the puree to the saucepan. Stir in 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Simmer uncovered over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 1-2 hours or until thick and dark in color.

3. Cool the Apple Butter

Remove the apple butter from heat. Let it cool, then transfer to a jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator until ready to use.

4. Prep the Buns

Slice 12 slider buns in half horizontally and place the bottom halves in a baking dish.

5. Layer the Ham

Place a layer of sliced deli-style smoked ham evenly on the bottom halves of the slider buns.

6. Spread Apple Butter

Spread about 1 tablespoon of the prepared apple butter on the inside of each top bun half.

7. Top the Sliders

Place the apple butter-coated top buns onto the ham-covered bottom buns to complete the sliders.

8. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake the sliders for 10-15 minutes, until heated through and the buns are lightly toasted.

9. Serve the Ham & Apple Butter Sliders warm, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.