the heat and simmer, covered until the fruit is tender, approximately 10 to 20 minutes.
remove the pot from the heat and pass the entire mixture through a food mill.
return the apples to the pot, add the sugar, cinnamon and cloves and stir well.
continue to simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally until has cooked down and is thick and rich, approximately 40-50 minutes. take care that the mixture does not burn and reduce the heat if necessary.
transfer the apple butter to glass jar, cool and store in the refrigerator for up to one week. 