Apple picking (and the associated Apple Bread baking) is one of my favorite fall traditions, and I can rarely leave the orchard without a jug of fresh-pressed apple cider. It was this past weekend at my local orchard where I saw jars of premade caramel sauce sitting beside rows of cider. I almost bought one but quickly remembered that homemade caramel sauce (like this Vegan Caramel Sauce) is ALWAYS the better option.
It’s straightforward and easy to prepare.Homemade caramel sauce tastes 1,000 times better than anything you’ll find at the grocery store.Plus, it makes me feel like a magical candy wizard while I watch the cream and sugar transform into golden candy.
The caramel sauce I’m sharing today is special because it’s made with apple cider. It begins by cooking down the apple cider until it forms a thick syrup, concentrating the cider’s flavor as it reduces, and infusing every spoonful with the sweet taste of apples. (Try it drizzled over this Fresh Apple Cake or Crock Pot Apple Crisp.)
How to Make Apple Cider Caramel Sauce
Every drizzle of this apple cider caramel sauce tastes just like a caramel apple! Pour it over your vanilla ice cream, bake it into this Caramel Apple Cake, or sneak it into your coffee. It is also the BEST caramel sauce for apples (whole or sliced).
The Ingredients
Apple Cider. Liquid gold for making the most addictive caramel sauce for apples. I recommend splurging on a jug from your local orchard, if possible, or using my homemade Apple Cider recipe.Sugar. I use a combination of brown and regular granulated sugar to create a decadent, homemade caramel sauce with has hints of molasses and toffee.Heavy Cream. Thickens the caramel and makes it smooth and creamy.Butter. Adds additional fat and richness to the apple cider caramel sauce.Vanilla. Smooths out the acidity and tartness of the apples.Cinnamon. Subtly spices the caramel and makes it smell like heaven.Salt. Balances the sweetness.
The Directions
Storage Tips
To Store. Leftover caramel sauce will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.To Reheat. Microwave on high in a microwave-safe container until just warm (about 10 or so seconds depending upon your microwave), then stir until smooth.To Freeze. Apple cider caramel sauce may be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight, then reheat as directed above.
