Apple Gravy

Apple gravy begins as sauteed apples caramelized in butter and turns into a sauce with surprising depth and subtle sweetness, thanks to a glug of apple brandy and a base of rich beef broth. The fruit cooks down and melds into the liquid, then gets blitzed into a silky sauce. The gravy finishes with just enough butter to round things out and a pinch of pepper for contrast. The result is glossy, golden brown and unmistakably savory, with a hint of brightness that cuts through heavier meats.

This is the gravy to reach for when serving oven-baked bone-in pork chops, meat loaf, slow-braised short ribs or classic chicken-fried steak. Drizzle it over mashed potatoes or spoon it onto a pool of creamed turnips—anywhere you’d use a standard brown gravy. Apple gravy brings a welcome hit of character without overpowering the plate.

Apple Gravy Ingredients

• Butter
• Apple
• Apple brandy
• Beef broth
• Salt
• Coarsely ground pepper

Directions

Step 1: Cook the apples

In a small saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped apple and saute until dark brown, adding 1 teaspoon of butter to prevent scorching.

Step 2: Deglaze with brandy

Remove the pan from the heat, and add the brandy. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring to loosen any browned bits from the pan.

Step 3: Simmer the gravy

Add the broth and salt. Reduce the heat, and simmer for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Puree and reduce

Using a blender or an immersion blender, puree the apple mixture. Return it to the saucepan and simmer until the liquid is reduced to 1 cup.

Step 5: Finish with butter

Remove the pan from the heat. Whisk in the remaining butter. If desired, add pepper.

How to Store Apple Gravy

Let the apple gravy cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight food storage container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Can you make apple gravy ahead of time?

You can make this gravy recipe up to four days in advance. Store it as directed, and reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Apple Gravy Tips

What type of apples are best for this apple gravy recipe?

We make apple gravy with Jonagold or Honeycrisp apples, but you can swap in other apple varieties like tart Granny Smith or Braeburn. Just avoid varieties like Red Delicious, which can become mushy when cooked.

Can you make apple gravy without apple brandy?

To make this apple gravy recipe without apple brandy, substitute apple cider, apple juice or even a splash of white wine. Each will bring a slightly different flavor but still complement the apples nicely.

What should you serve with the apple gravy recipe?

The apple gravy recipe pairs especially well with roast pork, bratwurst or turkey. The sweet-savory flavor also works with mashed potatoes or stuffing.