13 Apple Dessert Recipes That Use Up All Those Leftover Apples

13 Apple Dessert Recipes That Use Up All Those Leftover Apples – because nothing beats the cozy comfort of apple-filled treats! When autumn arrives and your kitchen overflows with crisp, juicy apples, it’s time to transform them into irresistible desserts that fill your home with the warm aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and buttery pastry. From rustic crumbles to elegant tarts, these recipes turn your apple bounty into memorable sweets that everyone will love.

Apple Dessert Recipes

 

Whether you’re looking for quick fixes like skillet apple crisp or showstopping desserts like caramel apple cheesecake, we’ve got options for every occasion and skill level. These recipes celebrate apples in all their glory – some highlighting their natural tartness, others enveloping them in sweet, gooey goodness. Each one is designed to make the most of your apple haul while requiring minimal fuss for maximum deliciousness.

Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats

A bowl of apple cinnamon overnight oats topped with chopped apples and cinnamon.

Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats bring a delightful blend of flavors that make breakfast feel like a treat. With the sweetness of apples and the warm spice of cinnamon, this dish is both comforting and nutritious. It’s easy to prepare and the perfect way to use up those leftover apples!

Simply mix oats with yogurt or milk, add chopped apples, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a bit of honey for sweetness. Let it sit overnight in the fridge, and in the morning, you’ll have a creamy, satisfying breakfast ready to go. Perfect for busy mornings, this recipe is a winner!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup milk or yogurt
  • 1 medium apple, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk or yogurt, chopped apple, cinnamon, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
  2. Transfer the mixture to a jar or container with a lid and refrigerate overnight.
  3. In the morning, give it a good stir. You can add extra milk if you prefer a thinner consistency.
  4. Top with additional chopped apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon before enjoying!

Mini Apple Tarts with Almond Cream

Mini apple tarts with almond cream on a decorative plate.

Mini apple tarts with almond cream are a delightful treat that combines the sweet and tart flavors of apples with a rich almond filling. These bite-sized pastries are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant dinner parties. The buttery crust pairs beautifully with the creamy almond topping, creating a dessert that’s both simple to make and irresistibly delicious.

Making these mini tarts is an enjoyable process that doesn’t require advanced baking skills. With just a few steps, you can create a stunning dessert that will impress your friends and family. The combination of tender apples and nutty almond cream creates a flavor profile that is sure to please any palate. Let’s get baking!

Ingredients

  • 1 package of pre-made tart shells
  • 2 cups chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Whipped cream for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tart shells on a baking sheet and set aside.
  2. In a bowl, mix the chopped apples with sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  3. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the almond flour, egg, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
  4. Fill each tart shell with a layer of the almond cream mixture, then top with the seasoned apples.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tarts are golden brown and the apples are tender.
  6. Let cool slightly before serving. Optionally, top with whipped cream for an extra touch!

Apple Crisp with Oat Topping

A warm bowl of apple crisp topped with oats and a scoop of ice cream.

Apple crisp with oat topping is a warm, comforting dessert that perfectly blends sweet and tart flavors. It’s simple to make, making it a favorite for both novice and experienced bakers. The combination of tender baked apples under a crunchy oat topping creates a delightful texture that’s sure to please everyone.

This dish is especially great for using up leftover apples, and it pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The aroma of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen as it bakes is an added bonus!

Ingredients

  • 6 cups sliced apples (about 6 medium apples)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread the apple mixture in a greased baking dish.
  3. In another bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apple mixture.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.

Apple and Pear Galette

A delicious apple and pear galette on a wooden board

The Apple and Pear Galette is a delightful rustic dessert that combines the sweet and tart flavors of apples and pears. This treat is incredibly simple to make, perfect for using up leftover fruit from your kitchen. With its flaky crust and juicy filling, every slice offers a satisfying combination of textures and tastes.

What makes this galette special is its versatility. You can enjoy it warm, straight from the oven, or let it cool for a delightful afternoon snack. The aromatic spices enhance the natural sweetness of the fruits, making each bite a cozy experience.

Ingredients

  • 1 pre-made pie crust
  • 2 medium apples, thinly sliced
  • 2 medium pears, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 egg, for egg wash

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples and pears with sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Toss until the fruit is well coated.
  3. Roll out the pie crust on a floured surface into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer it to the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Arrange the fruit mixture in the center of the crust, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges. Fold the edges of the crust over the fruit, pleating as necessary to create a rustic look.
  5. Brush the crust with the beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly.
  6. Allow to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy your homemade apple and pear galette!

Spiced Apple Muffins with Streusel Topping

Freshly baked spiced apple muffins with a crunchy streusel topping on a cooling rack.

These spiced apple muffins are a cozy treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg with the sweet, tart flavor of fresh apples. They’re fluffy and moist, making them perfect for breakfast or a snack. The crunchy streusel topping adds a delightful texture, ensuring every bite is satisfying.

This recipe is simple and comes together quickly, making it an excellent option for busy mornings or when you just want something comforting. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those leftover apples!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 1/2 cups peeled and diced apples
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (for streusel)
  • 1/4 cup flour (for streusel)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for streusel)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for streusel)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In another bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  4. Stir in the buttermilk and the diced apples. Gradually fold in the flour mixture until just combined. If using, add chopped nuts.
  5. For the streusel, combine brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Mix until crumbly.
  6. Divide the muffin batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full. Sprinkle the streusel topping over each muffin.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Classic Apple Pie with Cinnamon Crust

Classic apple pie with a cinnamon crust, served on a wooden table with fresh apples in the background.

Classic Apple Pie with Cinnamon Crust is a timeless dessert that brings comfort and warmth to any table. The sweet, spiced apple filling paired with a flaky, cinnamon-infused crust creates a delightful harmony of flavors. Making this pie is simpler than you might think, and it’s a perfect way to use up those leftover apples.

This pie is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great centerpiece for gatherings. The aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is enough to make anyone’s mouth water! Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe that will become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
  • 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
  • 6 cups sliced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Make the Crust: In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and cinnamon. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms a ball. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  2. Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, combine sliced apples, sugar, lemon juice, flour, and vanilla. Toss to coat the apples evenly.
  3. Assemble the Pie: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out half the dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Place it in the pan and fill with the apple mixture. Roll out the remaining dough to cover the pie, sealing the edges and cutting slits for steam to escape.
  4. Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the crust for a golden finish.
  5. Bake the Pie: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35-40 minutes, or until the apples are soft and the crust is golden brown.
  6. Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat!

Glazed Apple Bundt Cake

A beautiful glazed apple bundt cake on a glass cake stand.

This Glazed Apple Bundt Cake is a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. Packed with juicy apple pieces and warm spices, it offers a comforting taste that’s both sweet and slightly tangy. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, making it a great option for both novice and seasoned bakers.

The cake is moist and tender, topped with a glossy glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness. It’s perfect for gatherings, or simply to enjoy with a cup of coffee on a cozy afternoon. Let’s get baking!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (such as Granny Smith)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a Bundt pan well.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Gently fold in the chopped apples.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean.
  6. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by whisking the powdered sugar and milk together until smooth.
  7. Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top and enjoy!

Caramel Apple Crumble Bars

Caramel Apple Crumble Bars with a drizzle of caramel sauce

Caramel Apple Crumble Bars are a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors, perfect for using up those leftover apples. With a buttery crumble topping and a gooey caramel drizzle, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. They are easy to whip up, making them a great treat for any occasion!

The layers of spiced apples and crumbly topping create a delicious texture that pairs wonderfully with the rich caramel. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just need a cozy dessert for yourself, these bars are a hit!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups peeled and diced apples
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, mix flour, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in the softened butter until crumbly.
  3. Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create the crust.
  4. In another bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice and spread evenly over the crust.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the apples, then drizzle with caramel sauce.
  6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown. Let cool before cutting into bars and serving.

Baked Apples Stuffed with Walnuts and Raisins

Baked apples stuffed with walnuts and raisins in a baking dish.

Baked apples stuffed with walnuts and raisins offer a warm, cozy dessert that’s both easy to make and utterly satisfying. The sweet, tender apples pair beautifully with crunchy walnuts and chewy raisins, creating a delightful contrast in textures. This dish is perfect for utilizing any leftover apples while bringing a touch of comfort to your table.

The preparation is straightforward, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort. Once baked, these apples become infused with warm spices, making them an inviting treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 4 medium apples
  • 1 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup apple juice or water

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Core the apples, leaving the bottom intact, and place them in a baking dish.
  3. In a bowl, mix together the chopped walnuts, raisins, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  4. Stuff the apples with the walnut and raisin mixture, packing it in gently.
  5. Drizzle the melted butter over the stuffed apples and pour the apple juice or water into the baking dish.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the apples are tender but still hold their shape.
  7. Serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Apple Pizza with Cream Cheese Drizzle

A delicious apple pizza topped with cream cheese drizzle.

Apple pizza is a fun and unique twist on dessert that combines the flavors of sweet apples and creamy cheese on a crispy base. This recipe is simple to make and perfect for using up leftover apples, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess in every bite.

The combination of warm, tender apples and the luscious cream cheese drizzle makes this treat irresistible. It’s a delightful way to impress guests or to enjoy a cozy night in. Plus, the kids will love helping out with assembling the pizza!

Ingredients

  • 1 pre-made pizza crust
  • 2 cups thinly sliced apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out the pizza crust onto the prepared baking sheet, stretching it into a round shape.
  3. In a bowl, mix the sliced apples with brown sugar and cinnamon. Spread the mixture evenly over the pizza crust. If using, sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the apples are tender.
  5. While the pizza is baking, prepare the cream cheese drizzle. In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  6. Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Drizzle the cream cheese mixture over the warm apple pizza before slicing and serving.

Apple Cheddar Scones

Freshly baked apple cheddar scones on a wooden board.

Apple cheddar scones bring a delightful twist to traditional scones, blending the sweetness of apples with the savory richness of cheddar cheese. These scones are perfect for breakfast or as a snack, offering a unique flavor profile that is sure to please any palate. They’re easy to whip up and make for a comforting treat on a chilly day.

The combination of tart apples and sharp cheddar creates a wonderful balance, while the flaky texture makes them a joy to bite into. Serve them warm, perhaps with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of apple butter, for an extra touch of sweetness.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • 1 cup apples, peeled and diced
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 large egg

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Fold in the cheddar cheese, diced apples, and sugar until evenly distributed.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream and egg. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and gently combine until a dough forms.
  5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and pat it into a circle about 1-inch thick. Cut into wedges and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown on top. Let cool slightly before serving.

Apple Wood Smoked Cake with Walnut Frosting

Three-layer Apple Wood Smoked Cake topped with walnut frosting and garnished with walnuts.

This Apple Wood Smoked Cake is a delightful twist on traditional apple desserts. The subtle smokiness from the wood imparts a unique flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of apples. Topped with a creamy walnut frosting, this cake is moist and rich, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.

Simple to make, this cake combines the comfort of homemade baking with a hint of adventure. It’s sure to impress friends and family, whether it’s for a birthday celebration or a cozy afternoon snack.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/4 cup smoked applewood chips (for smoking)
  • 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In another large bowl, cream together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla and applesauce.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Pour the batter into greased cake pans.
  3. Smoke the Cake: Set up a smoker or use a stovetop smoking method. Place the applewood chips in the smoker. Once the smoke begins, cook the cake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  4. Make the Frosting: While the cake cools, whip together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in the finely chopped walnuts for added texture.
  5. Assemble: Once the cake layers have cooled completely, spread a layer of walnut frosting between the layers and on top of the cake. Garnish with additional chopped walnuts if desired. Slice and enjoy!

Chilled Apple Soup with Vanilla Yogurt

Chilled apple soup topped with vanilla yogurt and mint leaves

This chilled apple soup is a delightful way to use up leftover apples while providing a refreshing treat perfect for warm days. The smooth, sweet flavor of the apples pairs wonderfully with a swirl of creamy vanilla yogurt, making it a simple yet elegant dessert.

With just a few easy steps, you can whip up this light dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying. It’s great for impressing guests or as a family-friendly dessert that everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients

  • 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
  • 1 cup apple juice
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup vanilla yogurt
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine the chopped apples, apple juice, water, lemon juice, cinnamon, and sugar. Blend until smooth.
  2. Chill: Transfer the soup to a bowl or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the soup to chill.
  3. Serve: Ladle the chilled soup into bowls, and add a dollop of vanilla yogurt on top. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
  4. Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing chilled apple soup!

Final Thoughts


Apples are the ultimate baking staple – versatile, forgiving, and always delicious. As you work through these recipes, you’ll discover new ways to enjoy this humble fruit while creating desserts that feel both nostalgic and exciting. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different apple varieties or add your own personal twists to these classics. After all, the best part about baking with apples is that even the simplest preparations yield spectacular results. Happy baking, and may your kitchen always smell like cinnamon and apples!

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