Homemade Salted Caramel Apple Sauce Recipe
The perfect balance of sweet, tart, and salty in one silky smooth apple sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Apple Sauce
- Deliciously Versatile – Serve it warm or cold with breakfast, dessert, or as a gift.
- Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples and fresh apples.
- Easy to Make – Quick cooking time and minimal prep.
Ingredients
- 4–6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Gala, or Fuji preferred)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup apple cider or white wine + 1 tsp vinegar (for acidity)
- Pinch of sea salt + extra for finishing
- Optional: 1 sprig of rosemary or thyme for savory depth
How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Sauce
- Prep the Apples: Peel, core, and chop apples into even pieces.
- Make the Caramel: In a saucepan, heat sugar with 2 tbsp water over medium heat until golden. Stir in butter and salt until smooth.
- Cook the Apples: Add apples and rosemary. Deglaze with apple cider or wine. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until apples are soft and sauce thickens.
- Blend: Remove herbs and blend the sauce with an immersion blender or food processor until smooth.
- Taste & Store: Adjust salt. Cool and store in airtight jars for up to 1 week in the fridge or freeze for 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
This sauce is a dream when drizzled over:
- Vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt
- Oatmeal or warm pancakes
- Roasted pork or ham (yes, it’s that versatile!)
- Gift jars for the holidays or party favors
Optional Variations
Try these creative spins on the classic recipe:
- Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or clove for a spiced apple twist
- Use coconut milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free version
- Try a bourbon splash for adult gatherings
Salted Caramel Apple Sauce
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Yield: ~1.5 cups
Ingredients:
- 4 medium apples, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup apple cider or white wine + 1 tsp vinegar
- Pinch of sea salt
- Optional rosemary sprig
Instructions:
- Peel and chop apples.
- Caramelize sugar with water until golden. Add butter and salt.
- Add apples and deglaze with cider/wine. Simmer 10–12 minutes.
- Remove herbs, blend, taste, and adjust salt.
- Store in jars. Refrigerate up to 1 week or freeze.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought caramel instead?
Yes, but homemade caramel delivers better flavor and control over sweetness and saltiness.
What’s the best apple to use?
Granny Smith for tartness, Gala or Fuji for sweetness. A mix is ideal.
How can I make it thicker?
Simmer longer after blending, or return to heat to reduce excess moisture.
