Hot Buttered Apple Sauce Recipe

If you’ve ever craved a cozy, truly comforting treat that wraps you in warmth from the inside out, you need to try my Hot Buttered Apple Sauce. This delicious dish takes the humble apple sauce to a whole new level by incorporating melting butter and fragrant spices that flirt with your taste buds and saturate your kitchen with the most inviting aroma. It’s the perfect combination of silky, buttery richness balanced by the natural sweetness and slight tartness of slow-cooked Fuji apples. Whether you’re spooning it up for breakfast or enjoying it as a wholesome dessert, this recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Hot Buttered Apple Sauce recipe shines because it uses just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Each one brings its own magic—apples provide a fresh, fruity base; water softly steams them to tenderness; butter adds creamy decadence; and spices infuse every bite with a gentle warmth.

• Fuji apples, 12 fresh: Their natural sweetness and firm texture make them ideal for a luscious sauce that’s not overly mushy.
• Water, 2 cups: Just enough to gently simmer the apples without watering down their flavor.
• Pastured butter, 1 to 2 tablespoons: Adds richness and a velvety finish that transforms simple applesauce into a special treat.
• Ground cinnamon, 1 pinch: A warming spice that brings out the apple’s sweet and spicy notes beautifully.
• Ground nutmeg, 1 pinch: Provides a subtle hint of nutty complexity, elevating the sauce’s depth.

How to Make Hot Buttered Apple Sauce

Step 1: Prep the Apples

Start by peeling and cutting your Fuji apples into chunks. Removing the skin helps the sauce develop that smooth, buttery texture we love, while cutting them into pieces ensures they cook evenly and become tender just right.

Step 2: Simmer Slowly

Place your apple chunks in a large pot with a tight-fitting lid, and pour in the 2 cups of water. Bring everything up to a slow simmer over medium heat, then reduce to low and cover. Allow the apples to cook low and slow for about an hour, stirring occasionally to keep everything on track. This gentle simmering draws out the apples’ natural sweetness while softening them perfectly.

Step 3: Reduce and Thicken

Keep an eye on the pot as the majority of the water evaporates and the apples start to deepen to a gorgeous caramel-like hue. Stir more frequently now to prevent sticking and help the sauce thicken. Use the back of your spoon to break down any large chunks for a luscious, cohesive texture that’s just right.

Step 4: Serve with Butter and Spices

Once your Hot Buttered Apple Sauce is thick, tender, and glossy, ladle it into small bowls while it’s still hot. Top each serving with a generous dollop of pastured butter and a pinch of ground cinnamon and nutmeg to finish it off with that warm, aromatic flair that makes this dish irresistible.

How to Serve Hot Buttered Apple Sauce

Garnishes

To really make your Hot Buttered Apple Sauce shine, consider adding garnishes that complement its luscious body. A sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts, a drizzle of honey, or a few fresh mint leaves can add an exciting texture or fresh pop of color. Whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream also pairs beautifully for a decadent dessert twist.

Side Dishes

This sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside warm sourdough waffles or crepes for a comforting brunch. It also makes a perfect accompaniment to roasted pork chops, spiced oatmeal, or even dolloped over pancakes for an extra layer of richness and flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Beyond just serving it in bowls, try layering Hot Buttered Apple Sauce in parfait glasses with granola and yogurt for a visually stunning and delicious breakfast treat. You could also use it as a filling for tarts or inside crepes rolled up for a festive display. The creamy sauce also makes a wonderful swirl in warm oatmeal or rice pudding.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, no worries! Store your Hot Buttered Apple Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to five days and tastes delicious served cold or gently reheated for a comforting snack anytime.

Freezing

For longer storage, this apple sauce freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw it overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again, preserving all that buttery goodness.

Reheating

Warm up your Hot Buttered Apple Sauce gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking. Adding a small pat of butter while reheating can revive that fresh, rich flavor and silky texture that make this recipe so special.

FAQs

Can I use other apple varieties besides Fuji?

Absolutely! While Fuji apples give a perfect balance of sweetness and firmness, you can experiment with Gala, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. Just keep in mind that tart apples like Granny Smith might need a touch of added sweetener depending on your taste.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Peeling helps achieve a smooth apple sauce consistency and prevents any tough skin bits, but if you prefer a rustic texture, you can leave the skins on. Just make sure to wash the apples thoroughly.

Can I add sugar or sweeteners?

This recipe relies on the natural sweetness of Fuji apples, so added sugar is usually unnecessary. However, if you prefer your sauce sweeter, a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey can be stirred in at the end.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the pastured butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil. The taste will be slightly different but still delectably rich and creamy.

How long does the cooking process take?

The apples simmer low and slow for about one hour to one hour and 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to concentrate and the texture to become perfectly tender and thick.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Hot Buttered Apple Sauce a try because it feels like a warm embrace on a plate—simple, comforting, and deeply satisfying. It turns the everyday apple into something truly special with just a little patience and love. Whether you spoon it on breakfast, enjoy it as a snack, or use it to elevate your dinner, it’s a delightful recipe that feels like coming home. Happy cooking and even happier tasting!

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