These Apple recipes are perfect for fall! When the apples at the market are fresh, there’s nothing quite like whipping up your favourite apple recipe. Whether you’re looking for apple dessert recipes like an apple cake, an apple crisp, apple cobbler or tart, an apple pie, or even apple cider, or for something more on the healthy side like an apple smoothie, apple cinnamon baked oatmeal, an apple salad or even a side dish made with fresh apples, we’ve DEFINITELY got the apple recipe you’re looking for!!
When it comes to fall baking, not all apples are created equal. The key is matching the apple to the recipe so you get the right flavour and texture every time. Here are a few quick guidelines:
- Firm & tart apples (Granny Smith, Cortland, Honeycrisp): Perfect for pies, crisps, and tarts because they hold their shape and balance out the sweetness.
- Sweet & juicy apples (Gala, Fuji, Ambrosia): Great for sauces, muffins, cakes, or eating fresh.
- Multi-purpose apples (McIntosh, Empire, Spartan): Soft enough for applesauce, but flavourful enough for baking, and delicious all on their own.
When choosing apples at the market, look for ones that are firm with smooth, unblemished skin, and avoid any with soft spots or bruising. If you’re planning a variety of recipes, mix and match: a tart apple with a sweet one gives the best depth of flavour. And don’t be afraid to ask your local grower which varieties are at their peak – fresh, in-season apples will always give you the best results.
And if you don’t have too many varieties available where you live, opt for Gala or McIntosh. They’re readily available almost everywhere and they’re heavy hitters in the apple world!!
Of course, apples aren’t just for baking, they’re delicious in savoury dishes too. Crisp, slightly tart varieties like Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Granny Smith add crunch and brightness to salads, cheese boards, or roasted alongside pork or chicken. Sweeter apples like Gala or Fuji pair beautifully with sharp cheeses or tossed into grain bowls or salads. Think beyond dessert and let apples add that fresh, flavourful bite to everyday meals and snacks!
