With fall’s changing colors and weather, we also get fresh, crisp produce to fill our fridges with. Apples, in particular, are the perfect fall fruit to get into the kitchen with. There are endless possibilities for apples in the kitchen; they can be cooked and baked every which way. Things such as apple pie and apple cobbler are classics, but there are many more ways to use this delicious fall fruit. Adding apples into savory recipes like salads, soups, and sandwiches are excellent ways to change it up. Check out the guide below for five delicious ways to use apples this fall.
1. Homemade Applesauce
This family-favorite recipe is the perfect way to use the abundance of apples you may have in your fridge. Applesauce works well as a snack, side dish, or dessert. All you need to do is peel, core, and cook apples until they become soft enough to mash with a spoon. Then add in your sweeteners such as lemon juice or maple syrup if you prefer it sweet and seasonings such as cinnamon for added tastiness. You can store this treat long-term by freezing or canning.
2. Apple Pie Granola Bars
Yes, you read that right. Apple pie granola bars are the ultimate healthy treat for breakfast or snacks. Using less than ten ingredients, you can whip these up in no time. This granola bar is not-too-sweet and filled with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, applesauce, cinnamon, and honey if desired. These granola bars will be a hit with the whole family.
3. Apple and Walnut Salad
This simple and delicious apple and walnut salad is an excellent way to use apples this fall. This recipe can be made in under ten minutes and packed (minus the dressing) for a fall picnic as an appetizer or entree. Simply pair apple cider vinaigrette with fresh apples, walnuts, and Gorgonzola cheese to make a delicious sweet and tangy fall-inspired salad.
4. Simple Apple Crumble
An easy way to use apples this season is to bake a warm, delicious apple crumble. This classic recipe can be made in under an hour and uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. All you need to do is prepare the cinnamon apple mixture, combine the ingredients for the topping, and bake until golden and crunchy. Don’t forget to serve it warm, with vanilla ice cream to top it off.
5. Apple Cider
Making homemade apple cider is not as difficult as you may think. All you need to do is quarter fresh apples, toss into a pot, add in water, any sweetener if desired, and seasonings. Then, cook for an hour and strain out any solids until you get a clear liquid. Enjoy your homemade apple cider cold or hot. This cider will keep for a week in the fridge or freeze and enjoy later.