Ginger Apple Spread

Labor Day is here and that can only mean one thing - summer is officially over. Ugh. In the spirit of all things autumn, I decided to fill my house with the nostalgic aroma of cinnamon, ginger, and apples. My intention was to make apple butter but what resulted was more of a rustic apple spread... that's what happens when you wing it and don't really follow a recipe. As long as the end product is delicious, no harm done. I started by simmering 2 honey crisp apples (peeled and diced) in a mixture of water,white wine, and clementine juice. Once softened, I drained the apples and gave them a spin in the food processor with some cinnamon and ginger. The apple mixture went back into the saucepan with a heaping 1/4 C of sugar and simmered down (with frequent stirring) for about an hour until thick and luscious. I coated a hearty slice of beer bread in the warm apple goodness and indulged quietly on my back stoop. Every now and then, you just have to spoil yourself.