Are you looking for delicious apple recipes to add some crunch and flavor to your meals? From classic desserts to savory main courses, apples are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering apple recipes that will satisfy your sweet and savory cravings throughout the year.
Whether you’re in the mood for a warm and comforting apple pie on a chilly fall evening or a refreshing apple and brie grilled cheese sandwich on a crisp spring day, we’ve got you covered. Our collection of recipes includes classic desserts like caramel apple cheesecake and baked apples with honey and nuts, as well as savory options like apple cranberry stuffed pork chops and apple and pecan stuffed chicken.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these recipes and provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to make them. So go ahead, grab an apple, and get cooking!
Classic Apple Pie
A timeless dessert that never goes out of style, this classic apple pie is a staple for any occasion. With its tender crust and perfectly balanced sweet and tart flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup ice-cold water
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out half the dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Fill the crust with apple mixture and dot with butter.
6. Roll out remaining dough to fit the top of the pie. Crimp edges to seal.
7. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caramel Apple Cheesecake
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Recipe
This decadent dessert combines the warmth of caramelized apples with the creamy richness of cheesecake, all on a buttery shortbread crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Arrange apple slices on top of the cheesecake batter.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day with a comforting bowl of oatmeal infused with the sweetness of apples and warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water or milk (or a combination of both)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/2 apple, diced (about 1 inch pieces)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats and reduce heat to low. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and have a creamy consistency.
3. Add the cinnamon, honey or maple syrup (if using), and diced apple to the oatmeal. Stir until well combined.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Apple Walnut Salad
A refreshing and crunchy salad that combines the sweetness of apples with the earthy flavor of walnuts, perfect for a light and healthy snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced apples, and chopped walnuts.
2. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar and olive oil.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Baked Apples with Honey and Nuts
Baking apples with honey and nuts creates a sweet and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for chilly fall evenings. This simple recipe brings together the comforting flavors of caramelized apples, crunchy nuts, and golden honey.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baking apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wash and core the apples, leaving the skin on.
3. In a small bowl, mix together honey, nuts, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Stuff each apple with the honey-nut mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the apples are tender and caramelized.
7. Remove the foil and let the apples cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Apple Butter Spread
Transform fresh apples into a delicious spread perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 4-5 apples (any variety), peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture is smooth (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apple butter has thickened to your liking.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a blender or food processor.
5. Blend the apple mixture until smooth and creamy, adding a splash of water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple Cider Donuts
Warm up with a batch of Apple Cider Donuts, infused with the flavors of autumn!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup apple cider syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, milk, apple cider syrup, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Add the melted butter, egg, and whisk until smooth.
3. Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
5. Using a piping bag or a spoon, drop the dough into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd.
6. Cook donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes, depending on the number of donuts.
Apple Cranberry Stuffed Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops with a sweet and savory filling featuring crisp apples and tangy cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the apple, cranberries, and brown sugar.
3. Lay the pork chops flat and make a horizontal incision in each chop to create a pocket. Stuff each chop with the apple-cranberry mixture.
4. Season the outside of the pork chops with salt and pepper.
5. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apple and Brie Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the sweet and savory combination of crisp apple slices and creamy brie. This indulgent sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 1/4 cup of brie cheese, sliced
– 1-2 apple slices (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with brie cheese, apple slices, and another bread slice (butter-side up).
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
7. Remove from heat and let cool for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Apple Streusel Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins are packed with tender apples and topped with a crunchy streusel topping, perfect for a cozy fall morning or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup diced apples (about 2-3 medium-sized apples)
– Streusel topping ingredients: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and diced apples to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Mix streusel topping ingredients in a small bowl until crumbly. Sprinkle over muffins.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spiced Apple Chutney
Add a warm and aromatic twist to your fall gatherings with this sweet and tangy Spiced Apple Chutney.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped apples (Granny Smith or any other variety of your choice)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine chopped apples, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, and honey.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the apples are tender.
3. Stir in ground cinnamon and ginger.
4. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
This Spiced Apple Chutney is perfect as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream, or as a condiment for grilled meats or cheeses.
Apple Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these fluffy apple pancakes smothered in warm maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 1-2 apples)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Maple syrup for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the diced apples to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
9. Serve warm with maple syrup.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Apple and Pecan Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this seasonal twist on traditional chicken recipes. Crispy-skinned, juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with a sweet and savory mixture of sautéed apples, toasted pecans, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté the diced apple and chopped pecans in butter until caramelized.
3. Add garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir well.
4. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket.
5. Stuff each breast with the apple-pecan mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
6. Drizzle the outside of the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Apple Cinnamon Smoothie
Start your day with a refreshing and flavorful Apple Cinnamon Smoothie that combines the sweetness of apples, the warmth of cinnamon, and the creaminess of yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe apples, cored and chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the chopped apples, ground cinnamon, Greek yogurt, milk, and honey.
2. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add ice cubes if you want a thicker, colder smoothie. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired consistency.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Apple and Sausage Stuffed Acorn Squash
This fall-inspired recipe combines the natural sweetness of acorn squash with the savory flavors of sausage and apples, creating a delicious and nutritious dish perfect for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each acorn squash half with the sausage mixture, followed by the diced apple.
6. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese (if using). Return to oven for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Apple Crumble Bars
A sweet and satisfying treat that combines tender apples with a crunchy oat topping.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Press the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, combine oats and butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over the apple mixture.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple and Pear Galette
Combine the sweetness of apples and pears with a flaky pastry crust for a delightful dessert perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1-2 pears, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange apple and pear slices on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Drizzle honey over the fruit, then sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the pastry with melted butter.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Elevate your slider game with the sweet and tangy combination of tender pulled pork, crispy apples, and creamy coleslaw.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together apple cider vinegar, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork in a slow cooker or Dutch oven with a lid. Cook for 8 hours or overnight.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in any juices from the cooking liquid.
6. Split hamburger buns in half and toast until lightly browned.
7. Assemble sliders by placing a generous portion of pulled pork on each bun, followed by a spoonful of coleslaw and a few slices of apple.
Cooking Time: 8 hours or overnight
Apple and Kale Detox Salad
Kick-start your day with this refreshing salad that combines the crunch of apples and kale, perfectly balanced by tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large apple, diced (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, massage the kale leaves with your hands for about 2-3 minutes until they soften.
2. Add the diced apple, feta cheese (if using), and walnuts to the bowl.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Apple Fritters with Vanilla Glaze
Transform tender apples into crispy fritters and drizzle with a sweet vanilla glaze for a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 large apples, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Vanilla Glaze:
+ 1 cup powdered sugar
+ 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
+ 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
2. Add chopped apples to the dry mixture and toss until they’re evenly coated.
3. Gradually add milk, mixing until a smooth batter forms.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the apple mixture into the hot oil.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
7. Drain fritters on paper towels and let cool slightly.
Vanilla Glaze:
1. In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Drizzle the glaze over warm apple fritters and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of apples with these 20 delicious recipes for every season. From classic desserts like apple pie and cheesecake to savory dishes like stuffed pork chops and grilled cheese, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy sweet treats like oatmeal, muffins, and pancakes, or try unique combinations like apple and brie sandwiches and apple-stuffed chicken. Even the most adventurous will find inspiration in these recipes that showcase the star of the show: the humble apple.
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