Vanilla Bean Apple Butter

Stir together the sugar, water, and cinnamon in a medium saucepan. Scrape the vanilla bean seeds into the pan and add the whole vanilla bean. Cook over high heat for 5 to 10 minutes, until the mixture turns a deep amber color.

Add the apples and toss to coat. Reduce the heat to low and cook for about 45 minutes, until the apples are very soft. Remove from the heat and discard the vanilla bean.

Transfer the apples and liquid to a blender and purée until smooth. Transfer to jars and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.