Are you swimming in apples and wondering what to do with them all? Whether you’ve harvested a bumper crop from your backyard or received a gift of freshly picked fruit, the good news is that there are endless ways to enjoy apples. From sweet treats to savory dishes, here are some creative and delicious ways to use up your apple surplus.
1. Bake Your Way Through Apples
Apples are the perfect fruit for baking, and there’s no better way to enjoy their sweetness than in a warm, cozy dessert. Here are a few ideas:
- Classic Apple Pie: A timeless favorite. Thinly sliced apples with cinnamon, sugar, and a buttery pie crust—what’s not to love?
- Apple Crisp: If you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert, apple crisp is your answer. Top sliced apples with a crunchy, buttery oat topping and bake until golden brown. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Apple Cinnamon Muffins: Perfect for breakfast or a snack, these muffins are full of flavor and keep well for several days. Add walnuts or raisins for extra texture.
2. Make Apple Sauce or Apple Butter
If you have a lot of apples that are starting to soften, turn them into applesauce or apple butter. Both options are incredibly versatile:
- Homemade Applesauce: Simply simmer peeled and chopped apples with sugar, cinnamon, and a little lemon juice until soft, then blend it to your desired consistency. You can store it in jars or enjoy it fresh.
- Apple Butter: Apple butter is like a thicker, spiced version of applesauce. Cook the apples down for several hours until they form a smooth, spreadable consistency. Use it on toast, pancakes, or as a topping for baked goods.
3. Preserve Apples with Jams and Jellies
If you have more apples than you can possibly eat fresh, why not preserve them? Making jams and jellies is a great way to enjoy apples year-round:
- Apple Jelly: This translucent, sweet spread is made from apple juice, sugar, and pectin. It’s perfect for topping toast, spreading on biscuits, or pairing with cheese.
- Spiced Apple Jam: Combine apples with cinnamon, cloves, and ginger to create a rich, spiced jam. This works well as a gift or as a flavorful addition to your breakfast table.
4. Try Savory Apple Dishes
Apples don’t have to be reserved for sweets—they can shine in savory dishes too. Here are a few ways to incorporate apples into your main courses:
- Apple and Pork Pairings: Pork and apples are a classic combination. Try roasting a pork loin with sliced apples, onions, and a dash of cinnamon for a comforting, hearty dish.
- Apple Salad: Add thin apple slices to your salad for a touch of sweetness. They pair beautifully with leafy greens, cheese (like goat cheese or blue cheese), and nuts.
- Apple Stuffing: For a unique twist on a traditional stuffing, add diced apples to the mix along with herbs, celery, and onions. It makes a great side dish for Thanksgiving or any family dinner.
5. Create Refreshing Apple Beverages
Apples are the star of many refreshing drinks, perfect for quenching your thirst:
- Apple Cider: If you have a lot of apples, consider making fresh apple cider. Simply juice the apples and enjoy it as is, or heat it up with some cinnamon and cloves for a warm, spiced treat.
- Apple Smoothies: Blend apples with yogurt, bananas, and a little honey to create a delicious, healthy smoothie. You can also mix in spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost.
- Apple Cocktails: Apples can also be used to make creative cocktails. Try mixing apple juice or cider with rum, whiskey, or gin for a refreshing adult beverage.
6. Freeze Apples for Later
If you’re looking to preserve apples for months to come, freezing them is an excellent option. Simply peel, core, and slice your apples, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. Frozen apples are great for baking, smoothies, or making sauces throughout the year.
7. Create Apple-Based Gifts
Homemade apple products make wonderful gifts, especially during the holiday season. Consider making:
- Apple Cinnamon Candles: Infuse your kitchen with the delightful scent of apples and cinnamon by making your own apple-scented candles.
- Apple Pie in a Jar: Layer dry ingredients for apple pie in a mason jar for a fun, ready-to-bake gift. Add a recipe tag, and your friends or family will be able to bake their own delicious pie.
- Apple Soap: For something truly unique, make apple-scented soap using apple extract or essential oils.
Final Thoughts
With so many delicious and creative ways to use up your apple surplus, you’ll never have to worry about them going to waste. Whether you’re baking, preserving, or trying savory dishes, apples can easily be incorporated into every meal. So, get creative and start making the most of those delicious fruits today!
This blog post provides a variety of ways to use up a surplus of apples, turning them into everything from sweet treats to savory dishes. With these ideas, you can make the most of your apple harvest and enjoy them all year long.
