Apple butter and applesauce share several ingredients and taste similar. However, the main difference is that apple butter always includes serval warm spices, while applesauce may or may not include various spices. And the taste of apple butter is more rich and sweet than mild apple sauce. The most significant difference between the two is how they are prepared. Apple butter is caramelized to bring out the natural sugars in the apples. Applesauce is simply made by stewing the apples and blending them into a puree.