Got a bunch of old apples sitting around that you’re not sure what to do with? Well, you’re in luck! In this article, we’re going to share 10 creative ways to put those old apples to good use. Whether you’re looking to whip up a delicious dessert, make a refreshing drink, or even create some fun crafts, we’ve got you covered. So, grab those apples and let’s get started on turning them into something amazing!
Making Applesauce
Classic applesauce
Making your own homemade applesauce is a great way to use up those old apples that are starting to lose their freshness. It’s a simple and delicious way to enjoy the natural sweetness of apples. To make classic applesauce, start by peeling, coring, and chopping your apples. Place them in a saucepan with a little water, and simmer until they are soft and tender. Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash the apples to your desired consistency. If you prefer a smoother applesauce, you can pass it through a sieve. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon and a squeeze of lemon juice for some extra flavor if desired.
Cinnamon applesauce
If you’re looking to add a little extra warmth and spice to your homemade applesauce, try making cinnamon applesauce. Follow the same steps as for classic applesauce, but add a couple of cinnamon sticks to the saucepan along with the apples. The cinnamon will infuse into the applesauce as it cooks, giving it a deliciously fragrant and cozy flavor. You can remove the cinnamon sticks before mashing the apples or leave them in for an extra burst of cinnamon goodness.
Spiced applesauce
For those who enjoy a more complex flavor profile, spiced applesauce is the way to go. In addition to cinnamon, you can add other warm spices like nutmeg, cloves, and allspice to your applesauce. The combination of these spices creates a wonderfully aromatic and flavorful applesauce that is perfect for the fall season. Experiment with different spice blends to find your favorite combination and adjust the amount of each spice to suit your taste.
Applesauce muffins
If you have some leftover applesauce, why not use it to make delicious applesauce muffins? These muffins are a great breakfast or snack option and are an excellent way to use up any extra applesauce you have on hand. Simply incorporate the applesauce into your favorite muffin recipe, adjusting the amount of liquid and sugar as needed. The applesauce adds moisture and flavor to the muffins, making them incredibly soft and delicious. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to add some fruit to your baked goods.
Baking with Apples
Apple pie
When it comes to baking with apples, apple pie is a classic that never fails to impress. The combination of sweet, tart apples with a buttery crust is simply irresistible. You can use a store-bought pie crust or make your own from scratch. Peel, core, and slice your apples, and toss them with sugar, cinnamon, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Fill the pie crust with the apple mixture, cover with a second crust, and bake until golden brown and bubbling. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.
Apple crisp
If you’re in the mood for something a little quicker and easier than apple pie, apple crisp is the perfect choice. It’s essentially a baked apple dessert topped with a sweet and crunchy streusel topping. To make apple crisp, slice your apples and toss them with sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, butter, and a touch of cinnamon to make the streusel topping. Spread the apples in a baking dish, sprinkle the streusel on top, and bake until golden and bubbly. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Apple bread
Another delicious way to use up those old apples is by making apple bread. This moist and flavorful bread is packed with small chunks of apple, giving it a delightful texture and taste. Start by peeling, coring, and chopping your apples, and set them aside. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and a mix of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. In a separate bowl, cream together butter, sugar, and eggs until light and fluffy. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, and fold in the chopped apples. Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool slightly before slicing and enjoying.
Apple turnovers
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous in the kitchen, try making apple turnovers. These delightful pastries are filled with sweet apple filling and wrapped in a flaky pastry crust. Start by rolling out a sheet of puff pastry and cutting it into squares. In a saucepan, cook sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice until tender and syrupy. Spoon the apple filling onto the center of each pastry square, fold them in half to form a triangle, and seal the edges with a fork. Brush the turnovers with an egg wash and bake until golden brown and puffed up. Serve them warm for a deliciously indulgent treat.
Using Apples in Salads
Apple and goat cheese salad
Apples add a delightful crunch and sweetness to salads, making them a refreshing addition to any meal. To make an apple and goat cheese salad, start with a bed of mixed greens. Slice your apples thinly and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning. Arrange the apple slices on top of the greens and crumble tangy goat cheese over them. Drizzle the salad with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Finish it off with a sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans for some extra texture and nuttiness.
Apple and walnut salad
Walnuts and apples are a classic pairing, and they come together beautifully in a salad. To make an apple and walnut salad, start by washing and drying your favorite salad greens. Thinly slice your apples and toss them with lemon juice to keep them fresh. Add the apple slices to the greens along with some chopped walnuts. For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. This salad is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors.
Apple and kale salad
Kale is a nutritious and hearty green that pairs well with the sweetness of apples. To make an apple and kale salad, remove the tough stems from the kale leaves and tear them into bite-sized pieces. Massage the kale with a little olive oil and lemon juice to help soften it and reduce its bitterness. Slice your apples thinly and add them to the kale along with some dried cranberries or raisins. For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Apple and fennel salad
Fennel has a unique licorice-like flavor that pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness of apples. To make an apple and fennel salad, start by slicing your fennel bulb thinly, discarding the tough outer layer. Slice your apples thinly as well, and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning. Add the fennel and apple slices to a bowl and sprinkle with fresh dill or parsley for some added freshness. For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. The combination of flavors in this salad is both refreshing and unique.
Creating Apple Desserts
Apple crumble
Apple crumble is a simple and comforting dessert that never fails to satisfy. To make apple crumble, start by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples. Toss them with sugar, cinnamon, and a squeeze of lemon juice, and spread them in a baking dish. In a separate bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, butter, and a touch of cinnamon to make the crumble topping. Sprinkle the topping over the apples and bake until golden and bubbling. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a cozy and delicious treat.
Apple tart
If you want to impress your guests with a stunning dessert, an apple tart is the way to go. Start by rolling out a sheet of puff pastry and placing it on a baking sheet. Peel, core, and slice your apples thinly, and arrange them in a circular pattern on top of the puff pastry. Sprinkle the apples with sugar and cinnamon, and dot the top with small pieces of butter. Bake the tart until the pastry is golden and the apples are tender and caramelized. Serve it warm or at room temperature with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Apple pancakes
Turn your breakfast into something special with apple pancakes. Grate your apples and squeeze out any excess liquid. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, and fold in the grated apples. Heat a griddle or a non-stick skillet over medium heat and ladle the pancake batter onto the hot surface. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip the pancakes and cook until golden brown. Serve the pancakes with maple syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a delicious and fruity twist on a classic breakfast favorite.
Baked stuffed apples
Baked stuffed apples are a delightful and wholesome dessert that showcases the natural sweetness of apples. Start by coring your apples to create space for the stuffing. In a bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, chopped nuts, and dried fruit. Stuff this mixture into the center of each apple, and place them in a baking dish. Dot the tops of the apples with butter and pour a little apple juice or cider into the bottom of the dish. Bake the apples until they are tender and the filling is golden and bubbly. Serve them warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly comforting dessert.
Making Apple Flavored Drinks
Apple cider
Apple cider is a classic fall beverage that can be enjoyed both hot and cold. To make apple cider, start by buying or pressing fresh apples to extract their juice. If using store-bought apple juice, make sure it is 100% pure and not overly sweetened. Heat the apple cider on the stove or in a slow cooker until hot but not boiling. If desired, add a few cinnamon sticks, cloves, and a sliced orange to infuse the cider with warm and spicy flavors. Serve the apple cider in mugs with a cinnamon stick for stirring.
Apple-infused water
If you’re looking for a refreshing and hydrating drink, apple-infused water is a great option. Simply slice up a few apples and add them to a pitcher of water. Let the water sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to infuse. The result is a subtly sweet and crisp beverage that is perfect for staying hydrated throughout the day. You can also experiment with adding other fruits or herbs to the water for more variety.
Apple smoothie
Start your day off right with a nutritious and delicious apple smoothie. Blend together chopped apples, yogurt, milk or juice, and a handful of spinach or kale for an added boost of greens. You can also add a spoonful of nut butter, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for extra flavor. Blend until smooth and creamy, and enjoy the refreshing and energizing goodness of this apple-packed smoothie.
Apple sangria
If you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to enjoy a fruity and refreshing adult beverage, apple sangria is a fantastic choice. In a large pitcher, combine sliced apples, orange slices, lemon slices, cinnamon sticks, apple juice, and a bottle of your favorite red or white wine. Let the sangria chill in the refrigerator for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together. Just before serving, add some sparkling water or ginger ale for a touch of fizz. Pour the sangria into glasses filled with ice and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a cinnamon stick.
Preserving Apples
Apple jelly
Preserving apples in the form of jelly is a great way to enjoy their flavors throughout the year. Peel and core your apples, and cook them down with water, lemon juice, and sugar. Strain the cooked apples through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh strainer to extract the juice. Return the juice to the saucepan and boil it until it reaches the desired consistency. Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars, seal them, and let them cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place. Apple jelly is a versatile condiment that can be enjoyed on toast, pancakes, or as a filling for pastries.
Apple chutney
Apple chutney is a tangy and flavorful condiment that pairs well with savory dishes. Peel, core, and chop your apples, and combine them with vinegar, sugar, onions, dried fruit, and spices like ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and mustard seeds. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the chutney has thickened and the flavors have melded together. Pour the chutney into sterilized jars, seal them, and let them cool before storing in the refrigerator. Apple chutney adds a burst of flavor to sandwiches, cheese boards, and even grilled meats.
Apple butter
Apple butter is a delicious spread that is similar to applesauce but with a richer and more concentrated flavor. To make apple butter, start by cooking your apples down with a little water until they are soft and tender. Pass the cooked apples through a food mill or blend them until smooth. Return the apple puree to the saucepan and simmer it over low heat, stirring frequently, until it has thickened and developed a deep caramel color. Add sugar, spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and continue simmering until the apple butter has reached the desired consistency. Pour the apple butter into sterilized jars, seal them, and let them cool completely before storing. Spread apple butter on toast, biscuits, or use it as a filling for pastries.
Dried apple slices
If you want to enjoy the flavors of apples in a portable and shelf-stable form, try drying apple slices. Start by slicing your apples thinly and removing the seeds. Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake them in a low oven or use a food dehydrator until they are completely dry and crispy. Let the dried apple slices cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. Dried apple slices make for a healthy and satisfying snack on their own, or you can use them in baking or trail mixes.
Cooking Savory Apple Dishes
Apple-stuffed pork chops
Apples are a fantastic complement to savory meats like pork. To make apple-stuffed pork chops, cut a pocket in each pork chop and stuff it with a mixture of diced apples, breadcrumbs, onions, and herbs like thyme or sage. Secure the openings with toothpicks or kitchen twine, season the chops with salt and pepper, and cook them in a skillet until they are browned on both sides and cooked through. The combination of the juicy pork and the sweet and savory apple filling creates a truly delicious and satisfying dish.
Apple and sausage stuffed acorn squash
Stuffed acorn squash is a fantastic fall dish that can be made even more delicious with the addition of apples and sausage. Cut an acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Roast the squash halves in the oven until they are soft and caramelized. In the meantime, cook your favorite sausage in a skillet until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and sauté diced apples, onions, and garlic in the rendered fat until soft and fragrant. Combine the cooked sausage and apple mixture, season with salt, pepper, and herbs if desired, and spoon it into the roasted acorn squash halves. Place the filled squash halves back in the oven and bake until heated through. This dish is both visually appealing and incredibly flavorful.
Apple and bacon stuffed chicken breast
For a flavor-packed and hearty meal, try making apple and bacon stuffed chicken breast. Pound chicken breasts until thin and even, then season them with salt and pepper. In a skillet, cook chopped bacon until crispy, then remove it and drain on paper towels. In the same skillet, sauté diced apples and onions in the bacon fat until softened and caramelized. Remove the apple mixture from the heat and stir in the cooked bacon. Lay the chicken breasts flat and spread the apple and bacon filling over them. Roll up the chicken breasts and secure them with toothpicks, then cook them in a skillet until browned and cooked through. The combination of the smoky bacon, sweet apples, and juicy chicken creates a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress.
Apple and brie stuffed crepes
Crepes are a versatile and delicious base for both sweet and savory fillings. To make apple and brie stuffed crepes, start by making the crepe batter by whisking together flour, eggs, milk, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Let the batter rest for a few minutes, then cook thin crepes in a non-stick skillet. In a separate pan, sauté sliced apples in butter until tender and slightly caramelized. Fill each crepe with a slice or two of brie and a spoonful of the cooked apples. Fold the crepes into quarters and warm them in the oven until the cheese has melted. These stuffed crepes make for a delicious and elegant brunch or dessert option.
Making Apple Jam
Classic apple jam
Classic apple jam is a sweet and tangy spread that can be enjoyed on toast, biscuits, or even as a filling for cakes and pastries. To make classic apple jam, peel, core, and chop your apples, then cook them down with sugar and lemon juice until soft and mushy. Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to crush the apples to your desired consistency. Continue cooking the mixture until it thickens and reaches the gel stage. Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, seal them, and let them cool before storing. Classic apple jam is a staple that is sure to please anyone with its familiar and comforting flavors.
Apple cinnamon jam
Take your apple jam to the next level by adding a warm and aromatic touch of cinnamon. Follow the same steps as for classic apple jam, but add ground cinnamon to the mixture along with the apples, sugar, and lemon juice. The combination of apples and cinnamon creates a delightful flavor that reminds us of cozy fall days and homemade baked goods. Spread this jam on a slice of freshly toasted bread or use it as a filling for thumbprint cookies for a delicious burst of flavor.
Spiced apple jam
For those who enjoy a more complex and exotic flavor profile, spiced apple jam is the way to go. In addition to cinnamon, you can add other warm spices like nutmeg, cloves, and allspice to your apple jam. The combination of these spices adds depth and complexity to the jam and makes it perfect for enjoying during the holiday season. Adjust the amount of each spice to suit your taste and experiment with different spice blends to find your favorite combination.
Apple ginger jam
If you’re a fan of ginger, you’ll love apple ginger jam. The spicy and aromatic flavor of ginger pairs exceptionally well with the sweet and tart flavors of apples. Start by mincing fresh ginger and adding it to the apples, sugar, and lemon juice as you cook them down. Adjust the amount of ginger to your preferred level of spiciness and remember that the flavor will mellow out slightly as the jam cooks and matures. Spread this fragrant and zesty jam on a warm slice of toast for a delightful burst of flavor.
Creating Apple Snacks
Apple chips
Apple chips are a healthy and addictive snack that is incredibly simple to make. Start by slicing your apples thinly, either with a knife or a mandoline. Remove any seeds or cores from the slices. Lay the apple slices flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they don’t overlap. Bake the slices in a low oven until they are crispy and golden, flipping them halfway through. Let the apple chips cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. These chips are a fantastic alternative to store-bought potato chips and provide a satisfying crunch with a natural sweetness.
Caramel apple dip
Caramel and apples are a classic and irresistible combination. To make caramel apple dip, start by unwrapping store-bought caramel candies or making your own caramel sauce. Melt the caramel in a saucepan or in the microwave until smooth and pourable. Slice your apples into wedges or sticks, removing any seeds or cores. Arrange the apple slices on a platter or a large plate and drizzle the caramel sauce over them. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts or crushed cookies on top for some added texture and flavor. This sweet and gooey dip is perfect for parties or as a special treat for yourself.
Apple nachos
If you’re looking for a fun and creative way to enjoy apples, try making apple nachos. Start by slicing your apples into thin rounds or wedges and arrange them on a large plate or platter. Drizzle the apple slices with melted peanut butter or almond butter for some added creaminess. Sprinkle on your favorite toppings such as chopped nuts, granola, coconut flakes, or even mini chocolate chips. For a sweeter touch, drizzle some honey or maple syrup on top. These apple nachos are a great option for a healthy and satisfying dessert or snack.
Apple oat bars
Apple oat bars are a tasty and wholesome snack that can be enjoyed on the go. In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press half of the mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish. Top with a layer of thinly sliced apples, sprinkle with a little more sugar and cinnamon, and crumble the remaining oat mixture on top. Bake until golden and bubbly, then let it cool completely before cutting into bars. These apple oat bars are perfect for a quick breakfast or a satisfying snack.
Using Apples in Soups
Curried apple soup
Curried apple soup is a wonderful blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Start by sautéing onions and curry powder in a large pot until fragrant. Add diced apples, vegetable or chicken broth, and a pinch of salt, then simmer until the apples are tender. Use an immersion blender or a countertop blender to puree the soup until smooth. Return the soup to the pot and stir in some coconut milk or cream for added creaminess. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or a dollop of plain yogurt. This soup is a unique and flavorful way to enjoy apples.
Apple and butternut squash soup
The combination of apples and butternut squash creates a luscious and comforting soup that is perfect for chilly days. Start by roasting peeled, seeded, and cubed butternut squash in the oven until golden and tender. In a large pot, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until soft and translucent. Add the roasted butternut squash, diced apples, vegetable or chicken broth, and simmer until the apples are cooked through. Use an immersion blender or a countertop blender to puree the soup until smooth and velvety. Return the soup to the pot, season with salt, pepper, and a touch of nutmeg, and heat through. Serve this soup with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs or a drizzle of cream for an elegant and comforting meal.
Apple and parsnip soup
Parsnips are often overlooked, but they bring a unique sweetness and depth of flavor to soups. To make apple and parsnip soup, start by sautéing diced onions and minced garlic until soft and fragrant. Add peeled and chopped parsnips, diced apples, vegetable or chicken broth, and simmer until the parsnips and apples are tender. Use an immersion blender or a countertop blender to puree the soup until velvety smooth. Return the soup to the pot, season with salt, pepper, and a touch of thyme or rosemary, and heat through. This soup is both comforting and nutritious, perfect for satisfying your cravings on cold days.
Creamy apple and leek soup
Leeks add a delicate onion flavor to soups and pair wonderfully with the natural sweetness of apples. To make creamy apple and leek soup, start by sautéing sliced leeks in butter until soft and translucent. Add diced apples, vegetable or chicken broth, and simmer until the apples are tender. Use an immersion blender or a countertop blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Return the soup to the pot, stir in some heavy cream or coconut cream for richness, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, and heat through. Garnish the soup with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh chives for an elegant and satisfying meal.
In conclusion, there are countless creative and delicious ways to use old apples. Whether you’re making applesauce, trying out new baking recipes, incorporating apples into salads, creating apple-flavored drinks, preserving them for future use, cooking savory dishes, making jams, creating snacks, or using them in soups, there is something to suit every taste and occasion. Next time you find yourself with a surplus of apples, don’t let them go to waste – try one of these fantastic ideas and enjoy the sweet and versatile flavors of this beloved fruit.
