Salted Caramel Apple Butter: Slow-Cooked, Spiced, and Spreadable Bliss
A rich, velvety apple butter infused with warm spices and swirled with caramel—perfect for toast, desserts, and gifting
Introduction: A Cozy Classic with a Sweet Twist
This Salted Caramel Apple Butter is the kind of recipe that makes your kitchen smell like a hug. It starts with fresh apples, slow-cooked with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice until they melt into a deep, spiced puree. Then comes the magic—vanilla and caramel sauce stirred in for a buttery, sweet finish, with a sprinkle of sea salt to balance it all.
Whether you’re spreading it on warm biscuits, swirling it into oatmeal, or gifting it in jars, this apple butter delivers comfort and flavor in every spoonful.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s explore what makes this apple butter so rich and aromatic:
Apples:
- 6 lbs apples (about 12 large, peeled, cored, chopped)
Use a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Fuji, Honeycrisp, and Granny Smith for depth.
Tip: Chop evenly for consistent cooking.
Sweeteners:
- Granulated sugar (1 cup)
Adds clean sweetness. - Brown sugar (1 cup, packed)
Adds molasses depth and caramel notes.
Optional: Adjust sugar to taste based on apple variety.
Spices:
- Ground cinnamon (2 tsp)
Adds warmth and classic apple flavor. - Ground nutmeg (½ tsp)
Adds earthy spice. - Ground cloves (¼ tsp)
Adds intensity—use sparingly. - Ground allspice (¼ tsp)
Adds complexity. - Salt (½ tsp)
Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Tip: Use fresh spices for best aroma.
Flavor Finish:
- Vanilla extract (1 tbsp)
Adds smooth, sweet depth. - Caramel sauce (½ cup)
Adds buttery richness and indulgence. - Sea salt (1 tsp, optional garnish)
Adds contrast and visual appeal.
Optional: Use homemade caramel for extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and chop apples.
Place in large slow cooker.
Tip: Use a 6-quart slow cooker for best fit.
Step 2: Add Spices and Sugar
In a bowl:
- Mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and salt.
Sprinkle over apples and stir to coat evenly.
Optional: Add a splash of lemon juice to brighten flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Apples
Cover and cook on low for 10–12 hours, stirring occasionally.
Apples should be:
- Very soft
- Deep brown
If needed, cook 1–2 more hours for thicker consistency.
Tip: Stir every few hours to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Blend the Mixture
Use an immersion blender to puree until smooth.
Or transfer in batches to a blender.
Optional: Strain for ultra-smooth texture.
Step 5: Add Vanilla and Caramel
Stir in:
- Vanilla extract
- Caramel sauce
Mix until fully incorporated.
Tip: Taste and adjust sweetness or salt if needed.
Step 6: Final Cook (Optional)
If too thin:
- Cook uncovered on low for 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Apple butter should be thick enough to hold shape on a spoon.
Step 7: Cool and Store
Let cool to room temperature.
Transfer to:
- Sterilized jars
- Airtight containers
Store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or process in water bath for longer shelf life.
Tip: Label jars with date and flavor
Step 8: Serve
Use on:
- Toast
- Biscuits
- Pancakes
- Ice cream
- Yogurt
- Cheesecake
Sprinkle with sea salt before serving for extra flair.
Presentation Tip: Serve in mini jars with twine and tags for gifting.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for:
- Fall brunch
- Holiday gifts
- Breakfast spreads
- Dessert toppings
Pair with:
- Brie or sharp cheddar
- Cinnamon rolls
- Vanilla ice cream
Tip: Swirl into muffin batter or cake frosting.
Variations to Try
Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:
Citrus Spice
Add orange zest and juice.
Bourbon Caramel
Add a splash of bourbon with the caramel.
Nutty Apple Butter
Stir in toasted pecans or walnuts.
Vegan Version
Use plant-based caramel and sugar.
Chocolate Caramel
Add cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Make-Ahead: Cook and store up to 1 week before gifting.
- Refrigerate: Store in airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Freeze: Freeze in small containers for up to 6 months.
Tip: Thaw overnight in fridge and stir before serving.
Nutrition Notes (Per Tablespoon)
- Calories: ~45
- Protein: ~0g
- Carbohydrates: ~11g
- Fat: ~0g
- Sugar: ~9g
- Sodium: ~40mg
- Fiber: ~0.5g
This apple butter is:
- Gluten-free
- Comfort food approved
- Perfect for gifting
- Kid-friendly
Final Thoughts
This Salted Caramel Apple Butter is more than just a spread—it’s a spoonful of fall, a homemade hug, and a sweet way to celebrate the season. Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, it’s guaranteed to bring warmth and joy.