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Leftover apples from cider can be used to make apple sauce, pies, crisps, and smoothies. If you find yourself with extra apples after making cider, there are plenty of delicious ways to utilize them in various recipes.
From sweet treats like apple pies and crisps to healthier options like homemade applesauce and smoothies, there are endless possibilities to enjoy the flavor of these leftover fruits.
By getting creative in the kitchen, you can transform those surplus apples into mouth-watering dishes that will delight your taste buds.
Discover how to make the most of your leftover apples with these simple and versatile recipe ideas.
What to Do With Leftover Apples from Cider – Creative Recipes
If you’ve recently made a batch of delicious apple cider and find yourself with leftover apples, don’t let them go to waste!
There are plenty of creative recipes you can try using these apples.
From warm and comforting apple crisps to tangy and flavorful apple chutney, there’s something for everyone in this list of ideas.
Apple Crisp
Indulge in the sweet aroma of spiced apples baking in your kitchen with a classic apple crisp.
Made with oats, cinnamon, and a hint of buttery goodness, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser.
Follow this simple recipe:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel, core, and slice your leftover apples.
- In a bowl, combine the apples with sugar, cinnamon, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- In a separate bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, and softened butter until crumbly.
- Spread the apple mixture evenly in a baking dish and sprinkle the oat mixture on top.
- Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping turns golden brown.
- Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
Apple Sauce
Turn those leftover apples into a smooth and velvety apple sauce, perfect as a side dish or a versatile ingredient in various recipes.
Here’s how you can make it:
- Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces.
- In a saucepan, combine the chopped apples with water, sugar, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Cook over medium heat until the apples soften and break down, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Mash the cooked apples with a fork or blend them using a food processor for a smoother texture.
- Adjust the sweetness and cinnamon to your preference.
- Store the apple sauce in jars and keep them refrigerated for up to a week or freeze for future use.
Apple Chutney
Preserve the flavors of your leftover apples by making homemade apple jam or chutney.
Combine the apples with sugar, spices, and a touch of vinegar for a delicious spread that can be enjoyed on toast, with cheese, or as a condiment for various dishes.
Apple Infused Water or Tea:
Transform your ordinary beverages into refreshing and flavorful drinks by infusing them with leftover apples.
Add apple slices to water for a subtle, natural sweetness, or experiment with creating your own apple-infused tea blends.
Simply let the apples steep in hot water along with your favorite tea leaves for a delightful twist on traditional flavors.
Apple and Cheese Pairings:
Turn your leftover apples into a gourmet treat by pairing them with different types of cheese.
The crisp texture and natural sweetness of apples complement the richness of cheeses like cheddar, brie, or gouda.
Create a beautiful cheese board by arranging sliced apples alongside an assortment of cheeses, nuts, and crackers for a sophisticated snack or appetizer.
Apple Dessert Delights:
Take advantage of your surplus apples by whipping up some delicious desserts.
From apple crisps and cobblers to tarts and turnovers, there are endless possibilities.
Combine your leftover apples with sugar, spices, and a buttery crust to create mouthwatering treats that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Dehydrated Apple Snacks:
For a healthy and portable option, consider dehydrating your leftover apples to make crispy apple chips.
Slice the apples thinly, sprinkle with cinnamon or other desired spices, and then bake or dehydrate until they reach the perfect crunchiness.
These make for a convenient and guilt-free snack for both kids and adults.
Apple and Chicken Salad:
For a refreshing and satisfying meal, incorporate your leftover apples into a chicken salad.
Dice the apples and mix them with shredded chicken, chopped celery, and a dressing made from yogurt, mayonnaise, or mustard.
This apple-infused chicken salad can be served on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or as a filling for wraps.
Apple Smoothie or Juice:
Blend your surplus apples into a nutritious smoothie or juice. Combine them with yogurt, spinach, and a touch of honey for a delicious green smoothie.
Alternatively, juice the apples with other fruits like oranges or berries for a refreshing and vitamin-packed beverage.
Apple-Stuffed Pancakes or French Toast:
Elevate your breakfast game by incorporating leftover apples into your morning pancakes or French toast.
Dice the apples finely and mix them into the pancake or French toast batter for a delightful twist.
Top with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream for a breakfast treat that’s sure to impress.
Homemade Apple Vinegar:
Turn your leftover apples into a homemade apple cider vinegar. Combine apple scraps (peels and cores) with water and sugar, then let the mixture ferment in a glass container for several weeks.
The result is a tangy and flavorful apple cider vinegar that can be used in dressings, marinades, or even as a health tonic.
Apple and Nut Granola Bars:
Create your own energy-packed granola bars by incorporating chopped leftover apples into the mixture.
Combine oats, nuts, seeds, honey, and apple pieces, then bake until golden brown.
These homemade granola bars are perfect for a quick and nutritious snack on the go.
Savory Apple Pizza Toppings:
Explore the savory side of apples by using them as pizza toppings.
Thinly slice the apples and pair them with ingredients like caramelized onions, brie cheese, and prosciutto for a gourmet pizza experience.
The sweetness of the apples adds a unique and delightful flavor to the savory combination.
Home Remedies With Leftover Apples from Cider
Apple Cider Vinegar
If you have leftover apples from making cider, you can utilize them to create your own apple cider vinegar.
Apple cider vinegar is revered for its numerous health benefits, including aiding digestion, promoting weight loss, and improving skin health.
To make your own apple cider vinegar, simply combine water, sugar, and apple scraps in a glass jar, cover the jar with a cheesecloth, and store it in a warm, dark place for around a month until it ferments.
After fermentation, strain the liquid and store it in a sealed container.
Face Mask Recipes
Leftover apples can also be used to create rejuvenating and nourishing face mask recipes.
Apples are rich in vitamins and antioxidants that can help to exfoliate, cleanse, and moisturize the skin.
Face mask recipes using apples often include ingredients such as honey, yogurt, oats, and cinnamon.
For instance, you can blend apple pulp with honey and yogurt to create a hydrating and revitalizing face mask.
Apply the mask to your face, leave it on for 15-20 minutes, and then rinse with warm water for a fresh and glowing complexion.
Soothing Apple Peel Infusion:
The peels of apples contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Make a simple infusion by boiling apple peels in water for a few minutes.
Strain the liquid and add honey for sweetness.
This soothing apple peel tea can be enjoyed warm and may provide relief from inflammation and aid digestion.
Apple Cider Vinegar Tonic:
Harness the health benefits of apple cider vinegar by creating your own at home.
Place leftover apple scraps (cores and peels) in a jar, cover with water, and add a tablespoon of sugar.
Allow the mixture to ferment for a few weeks, stirring occasionally.
The result is homemade apple cider vinegar that can be diluted in water and consumed for potential digestive and immune system benefits.
Cough Soothing Apple Syrup:
When cough and cold season hits, turn to your leftover apples for a natural remedy.
Simmer apple slices with water, honey, and a dash of cinnamon to create a homemade cough syrup.
The soothing properties of apples combined with honey’s antibacterial benefits may help alleviate cough symptoms.
Apple and Ginger Digestive Elixir:
Combine the digestive benefits of ginger with the soothing qualities of apples to create a home remedy for digestive issues.
Boil apple slices and ginger in water, strain, and drink as a tea. This elixir may help ease indigestion, bloating, and promote overall digestive wellness.
DIY Apple Peel Potpourri for Relaxation:
Don’t discard those aromatic apple peels! Dry them out and create a homemade potpourri.
Place dried apple peels in a bowl, add cinnamon sticks or cloves for extra fragrance, and let the natural aromas fill your space. The calming scent may contribute to a relaxing atmosphere.
With Leftover Apples from Cider Preservation
If you find yourself with leftover apples from cider-making, food preservation is key to avoid waste.
Below are two simple methods to preserve your apples: canning and freezing.
Canning Apples
Canning apples is a great way to enjoy your apple harvest all year round.
Follow these easy steps to can your leftover apples:
- Wash and peel the apples.
- Cut them into slices or chunks.
- Prepare a sugar syrup or liquid for canning.
- Fill the jars with apples and the syrup.
- Seal the jars properly and process in a water bath canner.
Freezing Apples
Freezing apples is a quick and convenient way to store them for later use.
Here’s how you can freeze your leftover apples:
- Wash, peel, and slice the apples.
- Treat them with a solution to prevent browning.
- Arrange the slices on a baking sheet and freeze them.
- Once frozen, transfer the slices to airtight containers or freezer bags.
Snack Ideas With Leftover Apples from Cider
Looking for snack ideas to use up those leftover apples from your cider-making adventures?
Check out these delicious options below!
Apple Chips
- Slice apples thinly
- Spread on baking sheet
- Bake and sprinkle with cinnamon
- Crispy, tasty snack option
Apple Dip
- Mix cream cheese and honey
- Blend until smooth
- Dip apple slices for a sweet treat
Diy Apple Cider
If you find yourself with leftover apples after making cider, don’t let them go to waste!
One fantastic way to put those extra apples to good use is by creating your own homemade apple cider.
DIY apple cider is a fun and easy project that allows you to enjoy the delicious flavors of fresh apples all over again.
Plus, it’s a great way to reduce food waste and enjoy a tasty, homemade beverage.
How To Make Apple Cider From Leftover Apples
Making apple cider from leftover apples is a simple process that yields a flavorful and refreshing drink.
You’ll only need a few basic ingredients and some patience as the cider ferments.
Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
- Gather your leftover apples and chop them into small pieces.
- Place the chopped apples in a large pot and cover them with water.
- Boil the apples for about an hour, or until they become soft and mushy.
- Allow the mixture to cool, then strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to separate the cider from the solids.
- Transfer the strained liquid into a clean container and let it sit at room temperature to ferment for a few days, stirring occasionally.
- Once the cider has reached your desired level of fermentation, transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate it until cold.
And just like that, you’ve transformed your leftover apples into a delicious batch of homemade apple cider!
Conclusion
Don’t let those leftover apples from your cider-making adventure go to waste. Get creative in the kitchen and explore these exciting ways to turn them into delectable treats. From sweet desserts to savory condiments, there’s a multitude of possibilities to savor the flavors of your apple surplus.
So, roll up your sleeves, grab those apples, and start experimenting with these delicious ideas!