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Creamy Brown Butter Caramel Apple Cider Recipe with Toasted Pecans

creamy brown butter caramel apple cider - featured image

A cozy and indulgent fall drink featuring nutty brown butter caramel blended with spiced apple cider and topped with toasted pecans. Ready in about 15 minutes, it’s perfect for chilly evenings and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (960 ml) apple cider, preferably fresh and unfiltered
  • 4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter, browned slowly
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • A pinch of ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) toasted pecans, chopped coarsely
  • A pinch of sea salt

Instructions

  1. Place 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently as it melts, foams, then slowly turns golden brown and smells nutty. Once golden with tiny brown specks, remove from heat immediately.
  2. Add 1/4 cup brown sugar to the browned butter while still warm, stirring until sugar dissolves and mixture thickens slightly (about 2 minutes) to create the caramel base.
  3. Pour 4 cups apple cider into the saucepan with the brown butter caramel. Warm over low-medium heat, stirring to combine. Heat until steaming but not boiling, about 5 minutes.
  4. Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup heavy cream, then stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. Heat gently for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until smooth and slightly thickened.
  5. Toast 1/2 cup chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned, stirring frequently. Set aside.
  6. Taste the cider and add a pinch of sea salt to balance sweetness. Pour into mugs and sprinkle toasted pecans generously on top.
  7. Serve immediately for best creamy texture and crunchy contrast. To keep warm, use a low simmer and stir occasionally to prevent separation.

Notes

Use medium heat and stir frequently when browning butter to avoid burning. Toast pecans fresh for best flavor and crunch. Slowly whisk in cream to prevent curdling. Reheat gently if storing leftovers and whisk before serving to restore creamy texture. Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown butter, caramel, apple cider, toasted pecans, fall drink, cozy beverage, autumn recipe, creamy cider