Growing up, my grandma’s hot buttered apple sauce was a seasonal treasure we all looked forward to. The aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg would fill the kitchen, signaling the arrival of crisp fall days and family gatherings. As a child, I’d eagerly watch Grandma stir the bubbling pot, mesmerized by the way the apples softened into a rich, velvety sauce. It was the perfect comfort food – sweet, spicy, and utterly soul-warming.
Years later, I’ve finally mastered Grandma’s recipe, and let me tell you, this Hot Buttered Apple Sauce is going to become your new go-to. It’s the perfect blend of tart and sweet, with a luxurious texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a side dish, or even as a topping for ice cream, this versatile sauce is sure to delight your taste buds.
Why This Hot Buttered Apple Sauce Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Hot Buttered Apple Sauce
The secret to this Hot Buttered Apple Sauce is in the technique. By simmering the apples with just the right amount of butter, brown sugar, and spices, you end up with a sauce that’s perfectly balanced – not too sweet, not too tart. The key is to let the apples break down slowly, stirring occasionally, until they transform into a silky, velvety texture. The result is a sauce that’s equally delicious warm or chilled, making it a year-round treat.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Hot Buttered Apple Sauce, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:
- 4 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples – The type of apple you use can make a big difference in the final flavor. I prefer a mix of tart Granny Smith and sweet Honeycrisp for the perfect balance.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – The butter adds a rich, creamy texture and helps to balance the acidity of the apples.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar – This sweetener enhances the natural flavors of the apples and contributes to the sauce’s velvety consistency.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Cinnamon is the quintessential autumn spice, adding warmth and depth to the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Nutmeg complements the cinnamon, adding a subtle yet important layer of flavor.
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves – A small amount of cloves lends a gentle, aromatic note to the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – A pinch of salt helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the apples.
Step-by-Step Hot Buttered Apple Sauce Instructions
Preparing Your Hot Buttered Apple Sauce
Preparing this Hot Buttered Apple Sauce couldn’t be easier. With just 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, you can have a delectable homemade sauce ready to enjoy. All you’ll need is a sharp knife, a cutting board, and a medium saucepan.
1- Begin by peeling, coring, and dicing the apples into 1/2-inch cubes. This small, uniform size will ensure even cooking and a smooth texture.
2- In the saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and foaming, add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Stir to combine, making sure all the apples are coated in the fragrant spice mixture.
3- Allow the apple mixture to simmer, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes, or until the apples have softened and broken down into a thick, velvety sauce. The sauce should have a rich, glossy appearance and a sweet, spicy aroma.
4- As the apples cook, the sauce will thicken and the flavors will meld together. Keep an eye on the pot, adjusting the heat as needed to maintain a gentle simmer.
5- Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or cinnamon if desired.
6- Serve the Hot Buttered Apple Sauce warm, either on its own or as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or vanilla ice cream. Enjoy the comforting, autumnal flavors that fill your kitchen and delight your senses.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use a variety of apples for the best flavor and texture. A mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, creates a more balanced sauce.
- Be patient during the simmering process. Letting the apples break down slowly is the key to achieving that luscious, velvety consistency.
- Adjust the spices to your taste. If you prefer a more pronounced cinnamon or nutmeg flavor, feel free to increase the amounts accordingly.
- Consider adding a splash of apple cider or maple syrup for an extra depth of flavor.
- For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the mixture after cooking.
Serving and Storing Your Hot Buttered Apple Sauce
Perfect Pairings for Hot Buttered Apple Sauce
This Hot Buttered Apple Sauce is a versatile condiment that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It makes a delightful topping for pancakes, waffles, or French toast, adding a touch of autumnal charm to your breakfast. Serve it alongside roasted pork or chicken for a cozy, comforting meal. And don’t forget the ice cream – a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon-flavored ice cream with a drizzle of this apple sauce is a dessert made in heaven. This recipe yields 4 servings, making it the perfect amount to share with family or friends.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this Hot Buttered Apple Sauce is that it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Simply transfer the cooled sauce to an airtight container and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy it, you can either serve it chilled or gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
For longer-term storage, the sauce can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as desired.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Hot Buttered Apple Sauce
Creative Hot Buttered Apple Sauce Variations
While this classic Hot Buttered Apple Sauce is absolutely delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it:
- For a touch of tang, stir in a tablespoon or two of fresh lemon juice.
- Add a splash of apple cider or brandy for a boozy twist.
- Swap the brown sugar for maple syrup or honey for a different sweetener profile.
- Stir in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
- Make it a bit spicier by adding a pinch of ground ginger or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Making Hot Buttered Apple Sauce Diet-Friendly
If you’re looking to make this Hot Buttered Apple Sauce a bit more diet-friendly, here are some simple substitutions:
- Use coconut oil or olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
- Substitute a sugar-free sweetener, like erythritol or monk fruit, for the brown sugar to reduce the carb and calorie count.
- For a gluten-free option, simply serve the sauce over gluten-free pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal.
- Omit the butter and serve the sauce over roasted vegetables or whole grains for a vegan-friendly meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of apple in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While I recommend a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best balance, you can certainly use your favorite variety. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the apple’s firmness.
Q: How long does it take to make this Hot Buttered Apple Sauce?
A: This recipe has a total time of 25 minutes, with 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cook time. The hands-on time is relatively quick, making this a great last-minute addition to your autumn menu.
Q: Can I make this Hot Buttered Apple Sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, this sauce keeps very well in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can make it in advance and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Q: How much does this recipe make?
A: This Hot Buttered Apple Sauce recipe yields 4 servings, making it the perfect amount to enjoy with family or friends.
Q: What if my sauce isn’t thickening up?
A: If your sauce isn’t reaching the desired consistency, try simmering it for a few more minutes to allow the apples to break down further. You can also try mashing some of the apples against the side of the pot to release more starch and thicken the sauce.
Hot Buttered Apple Sauce
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Indulge in the rich, velvety texture and cozy autumnal flavors of this homemade Hot Buttered Apple Sauce. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this quick and easy recipe delivers a decadent treat that’s perfect for topping biscuits, pancakes, or enjoying on its own.
Ingredients
– 4 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the diced apples, butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are very soft and the mixture is bubbling, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and use an immersion blender to blend the mixture until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more spices or a touch of water to achieve your desired consistency.
5. Serve the Hot Buttered Apple Sauce warm, either on its own or as a topping for biscuits, pancakes, waffles, or other baked goods.
Notes
For a thicker consistency, continue cooking the sauce for an additional 5-10 minutes after blending. For a smoother texture, you can also blend the mixture in a traditional blender. This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: No-Bake, Frozen & Sweets
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Hot Buttered Apple Sauce is a true autumn delight that’s bound to become a new family favorite. With its perfectly balanced flavors, velvety texture, and comforting aroma, it’s sure to transport you to a cozy, nostalgic place. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a side, or even as a dessert topping, this versatile sauce is a must-try this season. So grab those apples, fire up the stove, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate autumnal treat. Don’t forget to let me know how you liked it in the comments below!
