If you’ve ever gone apple picking, stocked up at a farmers’ market, or found yourself with a generous gift from a neighbor’s tree, you know the dilemma; what to do with more apples than you can possibly eat fresh?
The good news is that apples are one of the most versatile fruits. They can be baked into comforting desserts, simmered down into jams and preserves, turned into refreshing drinks, or used in all kinds of creative ways you might not expect. With a little inspiration, that overflowing basket of apples can become the base for endless delicious creations.
What kind of apples are good for storing?
Not all apples last the same amount of time.
In my childhood, I remember my parents storing apples for the entire winter. We would keep firm, late-season varieties like Fuji, Granny Smith, and certain heirloom types in a cool, dark space, and they stayed crisp for months. With the right conditions, low temperatures, good air circulation, and regular checks to remove any that spoil, apples can last four to six months, providing fresh fruit long after harvest. Softer varieties, like McIntosh or Golden Delicious, don’t last as long and are best enjoyed within a few weeks.
If you want to store apples even longer, freezing, canning, or drying them are the best options.
How to preserve apples for longer
If you have more apples than you can eat, the best way to avoid waste is to preserve them. These methods let you enjoy apples weeks or even months after harvest.
Make applesauce or butter
You can make applesauce by cooking peeled or unpeeled apples with a small amount of water until they are soft. Add sugar and the spice of your choice, then blend them until smooth. It freezes well and is perfect for snacking, as a side dish, or for baking.
You can also make apple butter by cooking the fruit for hours until it thickens and caramelizes. The longer cooking time gives it a darker color and a richer, spiced flavor that you can spread on bread or biscuits.
Dehydrate them
You can dehydrate apples and use them as delicious snacks. Slice the apples evenly, sprinkle with cinnamon if desired, and dry them in a dehydrator or a very low oven. Once they lose their moisture and become chewy, store them in airtight jars or bags. They are lightweight, can be stored for extended periods, and are ideal for lunchboxes or road trips.
Make apple pie filling
If you love apple pie, one of the best ways to enjoy it is to make your own pie filling. Cook the apples with sugar, spices, and a thickener, such as cornstarch, until they reach the desired consistency. Once sealed in jars, the filling will be ready to use whenever you crave a delicious apple pie filling.
Canning apples
Canning apples requires some effort, but it rewards you with homemade apple jars that last for months. You can can plain slices in a light syrup, prepare spiced applesauce, or make apple butter to seal in jars. The canning process requires sterilizing jars and lids, and ensuring the seals are tight. However, once complete, you’ll have fruit ready to use, even when apples are not in season.
Make apple jams
Apples contain natural pectin, which makes them ideal for jams. You can make pure apple jam or combine apples with other fruits, such as cranberries, strawberries, or blackberries. Apple chutneys are another option, often made with vinegar, ginger, and spices, and they taste great with roasted meats or cheese plates.
Freeze them
Another good way to store apples for later use is to freeze them. You can peel and slice the apples, then toss the pieces with lemon juice to prevent them from browning. Put the slices on a baking sheet and freeze. Once they are solid, you can transfer the apples to bags or containers. You can use frozen apples in pies, crisps, and even in smoothies.
How to make drinks using apples
Apples aren’t just for eating. They can also be used to make refreshing and flavorful drinks, as well as vinegars and teas.
Apple Cider Vinegar
You can make your own apple cider vinegar at home using apple scraps. Place the cores and peels in a jar with water and sugar, cover it with a breathable cloth, and let it sit at room temperature. Over several weeks, the mixture will ferment into vinegar. You can use the vinegar in salad dressings, marinades, and even for household cleaning.
Apple tea
In some countries, people steep dried apples to make a mild, fruity tea. You can also simmer fresh apple slices with cinnamon and honey to make a soothing hot drink that serves as a perfect caffeine-free alternative.
Use in juices and smoothies
Fresh apples naturally sweeten juices and smoothies. You can blend them with vegetables like carrots or leafy greens, or even mix them with other fruits to make smoothies. Unlike bottled versions, homemade juices don’t have any preservatives, and you can adjust them to your taste.
Make apple desserts
The easiest way to use apples is to bake them into delicious apple desserts. There are countless ways you can add apples to desserts, such as in pies, cookies, cake, and even pancakes.
Apple crumble pie
This variation on apple pie uses a crumb topping instead of a second crust. The apples are cooked with sugar and spices, and the topping bakes into a buttery layer that tastes delicious. Apple crumble pie is easier to make than a double-crust pie, but still tastes just as comforting.
Apple Dutch baby pancakes
Apple Dutch baby pancakes are the most delicious pancakes you'll ever try. Made with sweet, caramelized apple compote and warm cinnamon, they are perfect for breakfast or dessert. You can dust them with powdered sugar or finish with a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness.
Apple crumble muffins
Apple muffins are one of the most practical ways to use several apples quickly. They are made with fresh apple chunks baked into a cinnamon muffin and topped with a homemade crumble for a crunchy texture. Apple crumble muffins are perfect for snacks or breakfast when you don’t have time to cook.
Apple cinnamon rolls
When you roll apple slices into cinnamon roll dough, they melt into the filling as it bakes. This creates gooey, soft cinnamon rolls that are way tastier than the classic version. Top them with cream cheese icing and you'll have a warm and cozy apple dessert.
Apple bread pudding
If you have enough apples and spare bread, you can turn them into apple bread pudding. Made with fresh apples, everyday bread, and warm cinnamon, this comforting fall dessert utilizes leftover bread and fruit simultaneously.
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