CREATIVE APPLE HARVEST IDEAS: MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR APPLE HAUL

So, you’ve got a bumper crop of apples this year? That’s fantastic! But what do you do with them all before they go bad? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Here are some fun and delicious ways to use up your apple harvest, from classic recipes to simple preservation methods. Get ready to transform those apples into culinary delights!

Easy Apple Pie

Nothing beats a homemade apple pie, and this recipe is so simple, anyone can make it!

Ingredients:

• 6-8 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 box (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts
• 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

• 1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• 2. In a large bowl, combine the apple slices, sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.
• 3. Line a 9-inch pie plate with one of the pie crusts.
• 4. Pour the apple mixture into the pie crust.
• 5. Dot the top with butter pieces.
• 6. Cover with the second pie crust, crimping the edges to seal. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
• 7. Brush the top with milk and sprinkle with sugar.
• 8. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with foil.
• 9. Let cool completely before serving. Enjoy!

Tip: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the apples to prevent browning.

Dehydrated Apples

Dehydrated apples are a healthy and delicious snack that’s perfect for on-the-go. Plus, they’re super easy to make!

Ingredients:

• Apples, any variety
• Lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

• 1. Wash and core your apples. Slice them into thin, even slices (about 1/8 inch thick).
• 2. Optional: Dip the apple slices in lemon juice to prevent browning.
• 3. Arrange the apple slices in a single layer on dehydrator trays, or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• 4. Dehydrate at 135°F (57°C) for 6-12 hours, or until the apples are leathery and no longer sticky. If using an oven, bake at your oven’s lowest setting, propping the door open slightly to allow moisture to escape.
• 5. Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They can be stored for several months.

Tip: Sprinkle with cinnamon before dehydrating for extra flavor.

Homemade Apple Sauce

Apple sauce is a versatile and comforting dish that’s great for babies, kids, and adults alike. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4-5 pounds apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

Instructions:

• 1. Combine the apples and water in a large saucepan.
• 2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the apples are soft.
• 3. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender (carefully!) to puree the apples until smooth.
• 4. Stir in the sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
• 5. Let cool before serving. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

Tip: For a chunky apple sauce, mash the apples with a potato masher instead of blending.

Apple Cider

Warm apple cider is the perfect autumn beverage. Here’s how to make it at home:

Ingredients:

• 8-10 apples, quartered (no need to peel or core)
• 1 orange, quartered
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 1 teaspoon whole cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice berries
• Water
• Sugar or honey (optional)

Instructions:

• 1. Place the apples, orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and allspice berries in a large pot.
• 2. Cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the apples are very soft.
• 3. Mash the apples with a potato masher to release their juices.
• 4. Strain the cider through a cheesecloth-lined colander. Discard the solids.
• 5. Return the cider to the pot. Add sugar or honey to taste (if desired).
• 6. Heat through and serve warm.

Tip: For a spiced cider, add a few slices of ginger to the pot during simmering.

With these simple recipes, you can make the most of your apple harvest and enjoy delicious homemade treats all season long. From pies to sauces, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Happy cooking and enjoy the fruits (literally!) of your labor!