All the things you can make with apples

There’s something about the frangrance of sweet apples that fills the fall air and brings with it all the cozy vibes. Apples and fall are synonymous—hey, I don’t make the rules! You might already have apple picking in your family’s fall activities list so, naturally you’re thinking, what to do with apples? Well, schedule that trip to the orchard because there’s (basically) nothing you can’t bake, make or decorate with apples.

If Google search had their version of a Spotify wrapped list then mine would definitely rank, “what to make with apples” in the top ten. Fall baking is the perfect time to experiment with apple desserts and apple-infused main dishes. Hosting a fall get-together? Bake with apples. Attending a potluck? Bake (or cook) with apples. There is so much you can do with the unparalleled fruit that is the apple. You know, in the five seconds you have before they turn brown! Check out these easy and inspired ideas for all the things you can make with apples including, answering the question—what to do with apple peels?

What to make with apples

Apple recipes are a dime a dozen. Yes, there’s more than just apple pie. Think: apple and butternut squash soup, apple tarts and apple chicken patties.

1. Apple pie fudge

This no-bake dessert comes together in a few simple steps. Bring sugar, butter, salt, heavy cream, cinnamon, nutmget and allspice to a boil in a large saucepan. You’ll want to stir for about 4 minutes. Add apple pie filling and white chocolate to the bowl of a stand mixer then, pour the butter mixture on top and beat on medium speed for a couple minutes. Once it’s silky and smooth, spread the fudge onto a baking dish and let it cool in the refrigerator for a few hours before cutting into bite-sized squares.

2. Fried apple rings

Slice apples and create a small circular hollow in the middle. Whisk together flour, corn starch, cinnamon and milk to create your batter. Cover the apple slices in batter then dip in a deep pan with heated oil. Fry until cripsy and then roll in a cinnamon and sugar mixture.

3. Apple brown betty

Thinly slice two apples and pile them in a pie plate. Douse them with orange juice to keep from browning! Then, mix together flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, all spice and salt. Mix in cold, cubed butter to create a crumb mixture. Sprinkle all over your apple slices then bake for about 40 minutes.

4. Apple chicken patties

Wondering what to do with apples that doesn’t involve baking? Well, this one’s for you. Grate your apple and leave the slivers in a large bowl. Next, add ground chicken, garlic, salt, pepper, cayenne, cardomom and all spice. Mix everything together and form into balls. In a large saucepan heat up some oil then, flatten the balls into patties and fry on both sides until done.

5. Apple tart

In bowl, cover apple slices with sugar, salt and a dash of nutmeg, and let it rest for a few minutes. Next, cut puff pastry into thirds. Lay apple slices on the puff pastry rectangles and bake until golden. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve. As far as apple desserts go these apple tarts are easy to make and a delicious treat any time of the day.

6. Apple butternut squash soup

Toss diced butternut squash, onion, garlic with oil, salt and pepper. Arrange everything on a baking platter then roast for about 40 minutes. Transfer to a large pot and use an immersion blender to mix. Stir in coconut cream, apple chunks and cardomom.

7. Apple cheddar soup

In a large pot, heat chopped onions, diced apples and chopped potatoes. Once softened add broth and apple juice. Salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer then pour everything into a blender (or use an immersion blender) to mix. Return to pot and stir in shredded cheese until combined.

8. Apple fritters

In a bowl mix together flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Stir in milk, eggs and oil. Stir in chopped apples. Fry spoonfuls of the batter in a deep pot with heated oil. Take out when they’re puffed up and golden. Coat in sugar and cinnamon and enjoy.

9. Apple oatmeal bars

Not all apple desserts are after-dinner treats. These apple oatmeal bars are great for breakfast, too! Mix together flour, oats, brown sugar, sugar, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and a dash of all spice. Use your hands to mix in softened, cubed butter to form a crumble. Spread half of the mixture into a baking dish then, spread apple slices on top and finish off the remaining layer. Drizzle melted butter on top and stick it in the oven until golden.

10. Apple spice-cake

Chop apples and coat with sugar and cinnamon. Add them to a baking dish then cover with spiced cake mix. Add chopped pecans—candied or roasted would also be good! Pour melted butter on top and bake in the oven until golden.

What to do with apple peels

Now that you know what to make with apples, you’ve probably got a pile of apple peels sitting pretty on your counter. No, you don’t have to toss them out. Here’s what to do with apple peels.

1. Apple-infused tea

Simmer apple peels, cardomom, clove and cinnamon in a bowl with water. Add lemon zest. Strain and enjoy.

2. Apple crisps

Toss apple peels in melted butter and a sprinkling of cinnamon & sugar. Toss them in a baking sheet and bake in the oven until nice and crunchy. Throw them onto your holiday grazing table for a unique snack!

3. Apple peel smoothie

If you’re looking for fiber rich foods then, add apple peels to your regular smoothie for a boost in fiber.

4. Apple peel batter

When you think about what to do with apple peels, your first thought might not be to fold it in batter and that’s OK. Slice and dice your apple peels then, fold them into cake or muffin batter to add more fiber and a hint of apple.