Diving into the world of cozy autumn flavors, this Caramel Apple Butter is pure magic in a jar. Imagine tender, spiced apples transformed through slow cooking and enriched with luscious homemade caramel, creating a spread that’s silky, sweet, and perfectly balanced. Every spoonful bursts with warmth from cinnamon and cloves, softened by a touch of cream and boosted with a subtle hint of cachaça for a surprising depth. Whether slathered on fresh bread or stirred into your favorite drinks, this Caramel Apple Butter will quickly become your go-to comfort treat, inviting you to savor the season with every bite.

Caramel Apple Butter Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nothing complicated here, just a handful of thoughtful ingredients that come together beautifully to create a rich, flavorful spread. Each plays an essential role, from the natural sweetness and texture of the apples to the aromatic spices and creamy caramel that elevate this dish beyond ordinary apple butter.

Diced apples (10 cups, skin on): Using the skin adds texture and natural pectin for perfect consistency.
Cinnamon stick (1 whole): Adds warm, woody undertones that infuse the butter as it simmers.
Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Boosts the cinnamon flavor with a subtle powdery warmth.
Nutmeg (a pinch): Brings a gentle spicy note that complements the apple’s sweetness.
Allspice (1 whole or 1/8 teaspoon): Adds complex, earthy tones to the spice mix.
Cloves (2 whole or 1/8 teaspoon): Impart vibrant, fragrant depth to the flavor profile.
100% apple juice, unsweetened (1/2 cup): Enhances apple flavor and aids in softening the fruit.
Cachaça (1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon): A Brazilian spirit that adds interesting layers of aroma and flavor complexity.
Water (1 cup): Needed for both simmering the apples and making the caramel.
Sugar (1 cup): Essential for forming the rich, golden caramel that makes this spread sing.
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds creaminess and richness to the caramel.
Heavy cream (2 tablespoons): Makes the caramel sauce silky and indulgent.
Kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

How to Make Caramel Apple Butter

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by coring and dicing your apples, skin still on to lock in texture and pectin for that perfect thick spread. In a large Dutch oven, toss the apples with the cinnamon stick, apple juice, and the majority of the cachaça. Stir everything to coat the fruit, setting the stage for deep, mellow flavors to develop during cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Apples

Cover your pot and bring the mixture to a lively boil over high heat. Once bubbling, turn down to a gentle simmer and keep it covered for 20 to 30 minutes. This slow cooking softens the apples into tender goodness while allowing the cinnamon stick and spices to infuse their lovely aromas into the mix.

Step 3: Craft the Caramel

While the apples become irresistibly soft, focus on making the caramel. Combine water and sugar in a saucepan and bring it up to a boil, patiently allowing the water to evaporate. Eventually, the sugar transforms into a beautiful light golden caramel. Swiftly whisk in butter, kosher salt, and cream to create a luxuriously smooth sauce that will turn your apple butter into something truly spectacular.

Step 4: Puree the Apples

Once your apples have reached that tender, melting point, transfer them along with their cooking liquid into a blender. Puree until velvety smooth. Add ground cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves, blending once more to ensure the spices are perfectly distributed, giving your apple butter that signature warm, inviting scent and flavor.

Step 5: Combine Apples and Caramel

Pour the luscious caramel sauce into the blender with the apple purée, then blend everything together until fully combined. Finish by adding the last tablespoon of cachaça for a delicate boozy note that elevates the whole experience, making this Caramel Apple Butter stand out in every way.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Transfer your finished Caramel Apple Butter into clean mason jars or any airtight containers, allowing it to cool completely before sealing. This gradual cooling helps achieve the ideal consistency and locks in all those delicious aromas for you to enjoy later.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Butter

Garnishes

For an extra touch when serving, try sprinkling a little cinnamon or nutmeg on top to echo the warm spices inside. A small pat of butter gently melted over it can add richness, and for a festive touch, top with toasted pecans or chopped walnuts to bring a pleasing crunch and a nutty compliment.

Side Dishes

This Caramel Apple Butter pairs beautifully with crusty bread, soft biscuits, or warm pancakes. It’s a dream alongside sharp cheddar cheese or cream cheese, offering a delightful sweet-savory contrast. For breakfast or brunch, dollop it on oatmeal or swirl it into yogurt for that cozy autumn vibe in every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond the basics by using your Caramel Apple Butter as a filling for thumbprint cookies or swirled into frosting for cupcakes. It also makes a fantastic addition to cocktails, stirring into whiskey or spiced rum drinks for a warm, fruity note. Another fun idea is to layer it with granola and cream cheese in parfaits for stunning flavor and texture combinations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Caramel Apple Butter refrigerated in an airtight container for up to two weeks. This allows the flavors to meld and even deepen, so it tastes even better the next day — if it lasts that long!

Freezing

If you want to store it longer, freezing is a great option. Spoon it into freezer-safe jars or bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. Frozen Caramel Apple Butter holds up well for 3 to 4 months and thaws perfectly for whenever you need a touch of autumn bliss.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir it occasionally to restore the creamy texture and that irresistible aroma. Avoid boiling after reheating to maintain its silky consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can experiment with apples like Granny Smith for tartness or Fuji for extra sweetness. Mixing varieties also adds interesting flavor layers. Just ensure you’re using firm apples to achieve the right texture.

What if I don’t have cachaça?

If you can’t find cachaça, feel free to substitute with a light rum or even apple brandy. These alternatives provide similar fruity and mellow flavors that complement the apple butter beautifully.

Is this recipe suitable for canning and long-term storage?

This recipe is ideal for refrigerator storage but not recommended for water bath canning due to its sugar content and the presence of dairy. For longer shelf life, freezing is your best bet.

Can I make this recipe without alcohol?

Definitely! Simply omit the cachaça or replace it with an equal amount of apple juice for that extra fruitiness. The spices and caramel will make sure your Caramel Apple Butter remains delicious and full-flavored.

How thick will the Caramel Apple Butter be?

The final consistency should be thick and spreadable, similar to traditional apple butter but luxuriously smooth thanks to the caramel and cream. If it seems runny, simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes before blending to reduce excess liquid.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the way this Caramel Apple Butter comes together — layers of cozy warmth, rich caramel, and the bright tang of apples all mingling perfectly in a jar. It’s exactly the kind of treat you’ll reach for again and again, whether it’s a crisp morning or a chilly evening. I can’t wait for you to make it, savor it, and maybe even share it with those you love. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this recipe holds such a dear place in my heart.