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The Apple Sauce That Tastes Like Warm Apple Pie in a Bowl
I used to think applesauce was just for school lunches and sick days—until I tried it warm, rich with butter, and sprinkled with cinnamon. It completely changed the way I look at this simple, humble dish. And of course, it started with my kids.
Lily was just a toddler when I first made this hot buttered apple sauce—more out of instinct than planning. I had a few apples, a cold day, and two little hands tugging at my sweater. I diced the apples, added a bit of butter and cinnamon, and let it simmer low and slow. What came out of that pot wasn’t just a snack—it was magic. Smooth, creamy, cozy. It smelled like fall. It tasted like apple pie without the crust. And it instantly became one of our most requested comfort foods.
Now, it’s a staple in our home every fall and winter. Jonah likes his with extra nutmeg. Lily swirls in a little maple syrup when she’s feeling fancy. And me? I just like watching their faces light up when I set a warm bowl in front of them.
If you’ve only ever had applesauce cold from a jar, you’re in for a revelation. This recipe is rich, spiced, and naturally sweet—made with real apples, slow-cooked until they melt into buttery goodness.
You might also love how this pairs with other cozy favorites like our southern fried apples or used as a warm topping for cinnamon apple bread.
Why Hot Buttered Apple Sauce Just Works
There’s something truly magical about the way butter transforms applesauce. It’s not just about richness—it’s about comfort, warmth, and flavor that feels like home. When you combine freshly cooked apples with a pat of real butter, a dash of cinnamon, and maybe a hint of nutmeg, you end up with something that’s far more than a side dish. It becomes dessert-worthy, snack-worthy… soul-worthy.
Butter gives body to the sauce, making it smooth and creamy without needing any added thickeners. It also helps carry the spices throughout the sauce, giving every bite that warm, well-rounded flavor.
Even better, this version doesn’t need extra sugar. Most apples are sweet enough on their own—especially if you’re using naturally sweet varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady. That said, if you’re using tart apples like Granny Smith and want a little sweetness, a drizzle of homemade maple glaze or raw honey works perfectly.
This is also the same cozy flavor combo we use in our apple pie oatmeal cookies—just in sauce form!
Easy Spice Customizations
Here’s where you can make this hot buttered apple sauce your own:
- Cinnamon (essential): It’s the backbone of that classic apple pie vibe.
- Nutmeg: Just a pinch brings warmth and a slightly earthy edge.
- Allspice or Clove: Want it bolder? A small pinch of either goes a long way.
- Cardamom: A little more modern and citrusy, but pairs beautifully with butter.
Feel free to mix and match—especially if you’re making a big batch for gifting or storing. The best part? It only gets better with time in the fridge.
How to Make Hot Buttered Apple Sauce (Step-by-Step)
This recipe is incredibly simple, which makes it perfect for those just starting out in the kitchen—or anyone craving something warm and homemade without the fuss. All you need is a pot, a spoon, and a little patience.
Step 1 – Prep the Apples
Peel, core, and roughly chop 6 to 8 apples. I usually mix varieties—Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp or Gala for sweetness. Aim for medium chunks; they’ll break down as they cook.
Step 2 – Simmer Low and Slow
In a large pot, combine your apples with ½ cup of water or apple cider. Cover and cook over medium-low heat for about 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and starting to fall apart.
You can mash them gently with a spoon, or leave some chunks if you like it rustic. Jonah actually prefers it with texture, while Lily loves it smooth.
Step 3 – Add Butter and Spices
Once the apples are soft, stir in:
- 2 to 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1 to 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon nutmeg or allspice
Let everything melt together over low heat for 5 more minutes. The butter will give it that glossy finish and irresistible richness.
Step 4 – Adjust Texture
For a chunky sauce, mash lightly with a fork or potato masher. For silky smooth, use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender in batches.
Want it extra creamy? Add an extra tablespoon of butter at the end—it’s the same finishing trick I use in our cinnamon apple bread.
Step 5 – Serve Warm
Spoon into bowls and enjoy it steaming with a drizzle of maple syrup or a splash of cream on top. Trust me—this is applesauce like you’ve never had it before.
Delicious Ways to Serve Hot Buttered Apple Sauce
This isn’t your average applesauce. Once you taste it warm with all those cozy spices and butter-melted goodness, you’ll want to use it in all kinds of creative ways:
- As a standalone snack or dessert: Serve in a bowl with a pat of butter on top and a dash of extra cinnamon.
- On breakfast dishes: Spoon it over pumpkin cinnamon rolls, pancakes, waffles, or even steel-cut oats.
- Alongside savory mains: It’s an amazing pairing with pork chops, roast chicken, or even holiday ham.
- Swirled into yogurt or oatmeal: The warm spices and creamy texture add depth to your favorite breakfast bowl.
- Baked into breads: Use as a filling for apple cinnamon quick bread or swirl into muffin batter for added moisture and flavor.
FAQs About Hot Buttered Apple Sauce
Can I store this apple sauce?
Yes! Keep it in an airtight jar or container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or jar. It keeps beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Do I need to add sugar?
Not at all. The butter and spices bring out the natural sweetness in the apples. But if you’re using very tart apples, a little maple syrup or honey can round it out.
What apples work best for this recipe?
We love a blend of sweet and tart. Try Honeycrisp, Gala, and Granny Smith for balance. For an ultra-sweet sauce, Fuji or Pink Lady apples are great too.
Final Thoughts
This hot buttered apple sauce is more than just a side dish—it’s a fall tradition in a bowl. It’s one of those recipes that brings comfort without complication, and a whole lot of flavor with just a few ingredients.
Whether you’re cozying up with a warm mug on a rainy day or layering it onto your weekend waffles, this simple dish delivers something special every time. It’s also a wonderful addition to your batch-cooking lineup—freeze some, gift some, and keep a jar tucked in your fridge for those moments when only buttery, cinnamon-spiced apples will do.
And if you loved this one, don’t miss our southern fried apples or our fall-favorite baked apple fritters. They’re easy, cozy, and just as heartwarming.
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Hot Buttered Apple Sauce – Cozy, Spiced & Soothing
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This hot buttered apple sauce is smooth, rich, and spiced with cinnamon for a cozy, fall-inspired treat. Made with just a handful of ingredients, it’s easy enough for beginners and perfect as a snack, side dish, or topping.
Ingredients
6 to 8 apples (Gala, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith)
1/2 cup water or apple cider
2 to 3 tbsp unsalted butter
1 to 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg or allspice (optional)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
1. Peel, core, and chop apples into medium pieces.
2. Add apples and water or cider to a large pot. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Once apples are very soft, stir in butter and spices. Let cook 5 more minutes.
4. Mash with a fork for chunky texture or blend for smooth consistency.
5. Add vanilla or sweetener to taste if desired.
6. Serve warm, or cool and store for later.
Notes
You can use a mix of sweet and tart apples for balanced flavor.
Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for 3 months.
Serve on pancakes, with pork chops, or over ice cream.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Side Dish, Dessert, Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg