Caytlin’s Famous Apple Bourbon Caramel Sauce Recipe
Introduction
Caytlin’s Famous Apple Bourbon Caramel Sauce is a rich and velvety treat that combines the warmth of bourbon with the sweet tang of apples. Perfect for drizzling over desserts or stirring into coffee, this sauce adds a delicious twist to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup salted butter
- 2 1/4 cups brown sugar
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 5 tablespoons apple bourbon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Step 2: Once the butter has melted, add the sweetened condensed milk, light corn syrup, and brown sugar to the pan.
- Step 3: Stir the mixture continuously with a whisk or rubber spatula over medium heat until it starts to simmer, scraping the sides and bottom regularly to prevent burning.
- Step 4: Allow the sauce to simmer until the temperature reaches between 200 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures the granulation is removed without reaching the soft ball stage.
- Step 5: Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the vanilla extract, apple bourbon, and salt until everything is well combined.
- Step 6: Let the sauce cool, then pour it into jars for storage.
Tips & Variations
- For a stronger apple flavor, try adding a teaspoon of apple cider or a small amount of grated apple peel while simmering.
- If you prefer a thicker caramel, continue simmering slightly longer but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Swap apple bourbon with regular bourbon or a spiced whiskey for different flavor notes.
Storage
Store the caramel sauce in airtight jars at room temperature for up to one month. For longer storage, refrigerate and bring to room temperature before using. Reheat gently in a microwave or over low heat to restore its pourable consistency.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this sauce without alcohol?
Yes, you can omit the apple bourbon and replace it with an equal amount of apple juice or additional vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version.
What desserts pair well with this caramel sauce?
This sauce is delicious over ice cream, pancakes, waffles, apple pie, or as a dip for fresh fruit.
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Caytlin’s Famous Apple Bourbon Caramel Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 2 cups of caramel sauce 1x
Description
Caytlin’s Famous Apple Bourbon Caramel Sauce is a luscious, rich caramel sauce enhanced with the warm flavors of apple bourbon and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for drizzling over desserts or adding a gourmet touch to your favorite treats, this sauce balances sweetness and depth with a smooth, creamy texture.
Ingredients
Caramel Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup salted butter
- 2 1/4 cups brown sugar
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 5 tablespoons apple bourbon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Melt the salted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat until fully melted and starting to bubble gently.
- Add Sweetened Ingredients: Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and light corn syrup, then add the brown sugar. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the Mixture: Using a whisk or rubber spatula, continuously stir the mixture over medium heat, regularly scraping the sides and bottom of the pan to prevent burning as it begins to simmer.
- Cook to Temperature: Allow the sauce to simmer until it reaches a temperature between 200-205°F, which ensures the sugar granules dissolve properly but avoids reaching the soft ball stage, giving the sauce a smooth consistency.
- Finish the Sauce: Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the vanilla extract, apple bourbon, and salt. Mix until completely combined.
- Cool and Store: Let the sauce cool to room temperature before transferring it into jars for storage. The sauce is shelf stable for up to 1 month.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer for accurate temperature measurement to achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
- Stir consistently to prevent the sauce from scorching on the bottom of the pan.
- Store the caramel sauce in a cool, dry place; refrigerate once opened to extend freshness.
- The apple bourbon enhances flavor but can be substituted with regular bourbon or apple brandy if preferred.
- This sauce pairs wonderfully with ice cream, pancakes, and baked apples.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: caramel sauce, apple bourbon caramel, dessert sauce, homemade caramel, sweet sauce, apple bourbon dessert topping
