Fall is the season of crisp air, cozy sweaters, and, of course, apples! Whether you're picking them fresh from the orchard or grabbing them at the Gretna Farmers Market, apples can be used in a variety of delicious recipes. From sweet desserts to savory dishes, here are some of the best apple recipes to try this fall!
Classic apple pie
No list of apple recipes would be complete without mentioning the classic apple pie. This timeless dessert is a staple at fall gatherings and is surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 6-7 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are great choices)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 package of pie crusts (or homemade if you prefer)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Peel, core, and slice the apples.
- In a large bowl, mix the apples with the sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and lemon juice.
- Roll out the bottom pie crust and place it in a pie dish.
- Fill with the apple mixture, then top with the second crust. Crimp the edges to seal and cut a few slits in the top for ventilation.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Apple cinnamon oatmeal
Start your day with a warm, comforting bowl of apple cinnamon oatmeal. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for those chilly fall mornings.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 cups milk or water
- 1 apple, diced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: chopped nuts, raisins, or a drizzle of maple syrup
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the milk or water to a boil.
- Add the oats, diced apple, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the oats are tender and the apples are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Savory apple and cheddar grilled cheese
Apples aren’t just for desserts; they can add a sweet and tangy flavor to savory dishes. This apple and cheddar grilled cheese is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough works well)
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- 2-3 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
- Butter one side of each slice of bread.
- Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, in a skillet over medium heat.
- Layer with cheese slices, apple slices, and another slice of cheese.
- Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side up.
- Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Slice and serve warm, perhaps with a bowl of tomato soup for dipping.
Baked apple chips
For a healthy snack that still satisfies your sweet tooth, make these baked apple chips. They’re easy to prepare and perfect for munching on the go.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 apples (any variety)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C).
- Slice the apples thinly, about 1/8 inch thick, using a mandoline or a sharp knife.
- Arrange the apple slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar if desired.
- Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, turning the slices halfway through until they are dry and crisp.
- Let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.
Get some fresh apples from the Gretna Farmers Market!
Apples can be used in various recipes, both sweet and savory. These recipes are sure to bring the flavors of fall into your kitchen. So grab some fresh apples from the Gretna Farmers Market and get creative! See you this Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon on McKenna Ave in Downtown Grenta!
