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Autumn ushers in a bounty of crisp and juicy apples; with this abundance, the culinary possibilities are endless. From timeless desserts that evoke nostalgic memories to savory apple recipes that surprise and delight, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of this season’s favorite fruit. 

Whether looking for the perfect apple side dish to complement a hearty meal or exploring the best apple recipes to showcase the fruit’s versatility, LiveWell Outdoors has curated an excellent list of the best apple recipes.

Apples are not just for pies and crumbles. While their sweetness makes them a staple in many desserts, their tangy undertones can be used in various savory dishes, turning an ordinary meal into a gourmet delight. Have you ever wondered what to make with apples beyond the conventional? Our compilation will inspire you to make every dish a memorable dining experience.

Dive in, explore, and let these apple recipes transform your culinary adventures. Apples prove their worth in every dish, whether grilled, baked, or simmered. Prepare to marry both the sweet and the savory, making every bite an autumnal celebration.

Sweet Apple Recipes

1. Classic Apple Pie

What would a list of apple recipes be without this classic? Nothing beats the taste of homemade apple pie with its buttery crust and spiced apple filling.

Ingredients:

Pie Crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 6-8 tbsp ice water
• 1/4 tsp salt

Apple Filling:

• 6-7 cups of peeled and thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or a mix of your favorites)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, diced

Instructions:

For the Pie Crust:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
• Add the cold, diced butter. Work the butter into the flour mixture using your fingers or a pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
• Add ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
• Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape each into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

For the Apple Filling:

• In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir well to ensure the apples are well-coated. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Assembly and Baking:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Roll out one disk of dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer to the pie dish and trim any excess.
• Pour in the apple filling, spread it evenly, and dot with the two tablespoons of diced butter.
• Roll out the second disk of dough. You can cover the pie with the full crust, make slits for ventilation, or create a lattice pattern.
• Seal and crimp the edges to secure the pie filling.
• Optionally, brush the top crust with a beaten egg or milk for a golden finish.
• Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
• Remove from the oven and let it cool for a couple of hours to allow the filling to set.

Serving: 

Slice the classic apple pie and serve warm or at room temperature. Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. Enjoy the timeless flavors of this beloved dessert.

2. Cinnamon Apple Crumble

Chunks of apple mixed with sugar, cinnamon, and a buttery oat topping. Enjoy this comforting blend of cinnamon, apple, and buttery oats.

Ingredients:

Apple Filling:

• 6 cups of peeled and chopped apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Crumble Topping:

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces

Instructions:

For the Apple Filling:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, flour, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. 
• Toss until the apples are evenly coated and set aside.

For the Crumble Topping:

• In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
• Add the cold butter pieces. 
• Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, combine until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.

Assembly and Baking:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Transfer the apple mixture into an 8×8-inch baking dish or a similar-sized ovenproof dish.
• Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the apple mixture, ensuring full coverage.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly.
• Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.

Serving:

Dish out the warm cinnamon apple crumble into individual bowls. Serve with a generous pour of custard or a scoop of ice cream, capturing the perfect balance of the crumble’s warmth and the cold accompaniment.

3. Apple Cider Doughnuts

Fluffy doughnuts infused with apple cider and dusted with cinnamon sugar. Perfect for chilly mornings or afternoon tea.

Ingredients:

For the Doughnuts:

• 2 cups apple cider
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 large eggs
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions:

Reduce Apple Cider:

• Pour apple cider into a saucepan and bring it to a gentle boil. Let it simmer until it reduces to 1 cup. This will intensify the apple flavor. Let it cool.

Doughnut Batter:

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, baking soda, and nutmeg.
• In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, and then add the reduced apple cider and melted butter. Whisk until well combined.
• Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Fry the Doughnuts:

• Heat a deep-fryer or a large, deep saucepan with oil to 375°F (190°C).
• Carefully drop batter by tablespoons into the hot oil. Fry doughnuts in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the fryer.
• Fry until golden brown, approximately 2 minutes per side.
• Remove with a slotted spoon and let drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

• In a shallow bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
• While the doughnuts are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Serving:

Serve the warm apple cider doughnuts with a mug of hot apple cider or your favorite tea. Their fluffy texture, combined with the sweet and spiced exterior, makes them a delectable treat perfect for the autumn season. Indulge and enjoy!

Savory Apple Recipes

1. Apple and Brie Tart

A savory tart with a crispy crust, creamy brie, thinly sliced apples, and a drizzle of honey. This apple side dish is great as an appetizer or light lunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 ready-made puff pastry sheet, thawed
• 2 medium apples (like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), cored and thinly sliced
• 200g Brie cheese, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp honey
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Fresh rosemary or thyme (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Preheat Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Prepare Puff Pastry:

• Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer it to the prepared baking tray.
• Using a sharp knife, score a 1-inch border around the edge of the pastry without cutting all the way through. This will allow the edge to puff up and create a crust.

Layer Brie and Apples:

• Arrange the Brie slices over the center of the puff pastry, staying within the scored border.
• Layer the thinly sliced apples on top of the Brie. Season with a touch of salt and pepper.

Egg Wash & Bake:

• In a small bowl, beat the egg with a splash of water to create an egg wash.
• Brush the exposed puff pastry border with the egg wash to give it a golden finish when baked.
• Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden and the apples are tender.

Finishing Touches:

• Once out of the oven, drizzle honey over the top of the tart. 
• Garnish with freshly chopped rosemary or thyme for a touch of aromatic herbiness.

Serving:

Cut the Apple and Brie Tart into squares or slices and serve warm. The creamy brie, sweet apples, and crispy pastry combine for a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Paired with a crisp salad or a glass of white wine, it’s an elegant dish sure to impress. Perfect for brunch, picnics, or a sophisticated starter at dinner parties. 

2. Grilled Apple and Pork Skewers

This savory apple recipe involves marinating pork cubes and apple chunks and skewering and grilling them to perfection. The caramelized apple complements the charred pork, making it a delightful fall meal. Looking for the perfect grill to make this recipe? Learn why we love Blaze Grills.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb pork tenderloin or pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 large apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp fresh rosemary or thyme, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Instructions:

Marinate Pork:

• In a mixing bowl, combine apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
• Add the pork cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for the flavors to meld.

Prepare Skewers:

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
• Thread the marinated pork cubes and apple chunks alternately onto the soaked skewers.

Grill:

• Place the skewers on the grill. 
• Cook, turning occasionally, until the pork is thoroughly cooked and has a nice char on the outside, and the apples have grill marks and are slightly tender – about 10-12 minutes.
• Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.

Serve:

Drizzle with more honey or maple syrup if desired, and sprinkle with additional fresh chopped herbs for garnish. Serve with a side of coleslaw or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A tangy apple cider vinegar-based dipping sauce or a light apple sauce can further elevate the dish. Enjoy your grill session with these delicious skewers!

3. Curried Apple and Butternut Squash Soup

A creamy, spicy bowl of warmth and comfort, where the sweetness of apples balances the depth of curry and butternut squash. 

Ingredients:

• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 medium apples (like Gala or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 2 tsp curry powder
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
• Toasted pumpkin seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Sauté Base Ingredients:

• In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
• Add the chopped apples and continue to sauté for another 5 minutes or until the apples begin to soften.

Add Squash and Spices:

• Stir in the butternut squash cubes, curry powder, ground turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger. Mix until the squash and apples are well-coated with the spices.

Simmer:

• Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the squash is tender.

Blend and Season:

• Once the squash is cooked through, use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the mixture to a blender in batches, but ensure to let it cool slightly before blending.
• Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup gently to bring it back to temperature.

Serving

Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with a swirl of coconut milk, fresh cilantro or parsley, and toasted pumpkin seeds if desired. Best enjoyed on a cool day, this soup is a heartwarming blend of autumn flavors. 

Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a satisfying meal. You can store it in the refrigerator, making it perfect for meal prep or quick weekday dinners.

Embrace Autumn with LiveWell Outdoors

The allure of autumn extends beyond its rich flavors. It’s about the ambiance, the crisp air, and the cozy outdoor settings that make every meal special. As you explore and experiment with these apple-centric recipes, consider taking your outdoor experience to the next level with LiveWell Outdoors.

Our extensive portfolio showcases luxury outdoor living spaces — each crafted with impeccable attention to detail. If you envision a backyard transformation or seek personalized guidance on creating the perfect outdoor oasis to enjoy your culinary masterpieces, we’re here to help.

Schedule a consultation with our expert team today, and let’s bring your outdoor dream to life, ensuring that you celebrate every season in style and comfort. Cheers to many more delightful dishes and memorable outdoor moments with LiveWell Outdoors!