The reasons to eat apples are plentiful. They’re nutritious (fiber! vitamin C! antioxidants!), flavorful — and budget-friendly.
The average per-pound cost of Red Delicious apples in 2019 was $1.18, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Granny Smiths averaged $1.23 per pound. That’s affordable enough to stretch your grocery dollars while also providing the foundation for a variety of healthy, inexpensive apple dishes.
But before diving into recipes, let’s clear up a few apple basics.
How Do I Pick the Best Apple?
Apple aficionados say the top sign of an apple’s quality is firmness. When you press an apple gently, it should feel solid with little to no give.
You can refrigerate apples to extend their shelf life, but if you end up with a soft or slightly bruised apple, don’t worry. Several of the recipes below will help you transform those imperfect fruits into something delicious.
Which Apple Should I Buy?
That depends on whether you plan to eat the apple raw or cook with it.
If you want a snacking apple, try a Gala (my personal favorite!), Jonagold, or one from this guide. For baking, commonly available choices include Red Delicious, Pink Lady, or any from this list.
All apples keep best in the refrigerator. Storing them there will prolong their freshness.
What Can I Make With All These Apples?
I’m glad you asked! Here’s a collection of tasty apple recipes perfect for fall.
1. Apple Muffins
Obviously, we’re starting with muffins.
This is an ideal recipe for using slightly soft or older apples — once they’re baked into muffins, you won’t notice the difference. The recipe includes a cinnamon streusel that really elevates them.
2. Green Apple Smoothie
You don’t see a lot of apple smoothies online, but green apples make a great addition to your morning smoothie. Their crisp, tart flavor helps mask the bitterness of vegetables you might sneak into the blend.
3. Broccoli and Apple Salad
So many contrasts of texture come together in this crunchy, creamy broccoli and apple salad! It’s a modern twist on a salad I remember from my grandmother’s table.
The recipe swaps in Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise to cut calories while keeping creaminess.
4. Spiced Bourbon Apple Pie
Nothing evokes autumn like a warm, freshly baked apple pie.
This spiced bourbon apple pie is easily one of the most charming variations I’ve seen. The bourbon adds a unique layer to classic apple pie flavors, though you can omit it if preferred.
5. Apple Pie Biscuits
I’ll admit I’m not a patient pie-maker. That’s why these apple pie biscuits are perfect for me.
The recipe embraces rustic biscuit textures and combines them with sweet pie-like filling. Anything from Joy the Baker is bound to taste great.
6. Slow-Cooker Caramel Apple Pie Dip
This slow-cooker apple pie dip would be ideal for a Halloween gathering (or just a cozy weeknight).
Simply toss the ingredients into a slow cooker for a couple of hours and you’ll have a gooey, sweet apple dip to serve about eight people.
7. Applesauce Fruit Blends
This idea takes traditional applesauce up a notch by mixing in other fruits for added color and flavor. Blueberry, strawberry, and peach versions all sound delightful while keeping apples as the base.
Jar up some of these during the fall, and you’ll be enjoying homemade applesauce all winter long.
8. Apple Cinnamon Pancakes
These quick pancakes are great for a rushed morning or a breakfast-for-dinner night. Top the pancakes with warm applesauce for a cozy, autumnal twist.
9. Baked Apple Chips
You don’t need a dehydrator to make these crispy baked apple chips. Making your own is a smart way to save money since store-bought apple chips can be pricey.
They’re perfect as after-school snacks, lunchbox additions, or a wholesome fix for a sweet craving.
10. Honeycrisp Apple Salad With Candied Walnuts
This salad showcases the natural tang of Honeycrisp apples. Candied walnuts contribute sweetness and crunch.
If Honeycrisp isn’t available, Granny Smith apples would also work wonderfully in this dish.
Lydia Carter is a contributor to Savinly.
