The best apple recipes change with the seasons, from warm crumbles in autumn to refreshing salads in summer.
Whether you’ve picked apples from your garden or bought a bag from the local market, there’s a delicious way to use them any time of year. This guide features 8 simple, seasonal apple recipes that bring out the best in British apples—perfect for breakfast, desserts, snacks, and even drinks.
Autumn Apple Recipes – Comforting Classics for Chilly Days
Autumn is apple season in the UK, making it the best time for warm, spiced, and baked apple dishes.
1. Traditional Apple Crumble
- Made with Bramley or Cox’s apples for the perfect balance of tart and sweet.
- Topped with a golden oat and brown sugar crumble.
- Best served with custard or clotted cream.
2. Apple and Parsnip Soup
- Combines sweet apples with earthy parsnips and a touch of spice.
- Ideal as a starter or light lunch on colder days.
Winter Apple Recipes – Rich and Warming
During winter, apples pair wonderfully with spices and hearty ingredients.
3. Baked Apples with Cinnamon and Raisins
- Whole apples filled with dried fruit, nuts, and spices.
- Baked until soft and fragrant—perfect as a healthy dessert.
4. Mulled Apple Juice
- A non-alcoholic alternative to mulled wine, using apple juice, cloves, cinnamon, and orange peel.
- Served hot and ideal for festive gatherings.
Spring Apple Recipes – Light and Fresh Ideas
As the weather warms, apple recipes become lighter and often feature raw or gently cooked apples.
5. Apple and Fennel Slaw
- Thinly sliced apples and fennel tossed with a lemon and yoghurt dressing.
- Pairs beautifully with fish or grilled chicken.
6. Apple and Oat Muffins
- Great for packed lunches or breakfast.
- Use Discovery apples for a naturally sweet, soft texture.
Summer Apple Recipes – Crisp, Cool and Fruity
In summer, apples shine in refreshing dishes that require minimal cooking.
7. Apple and Watercress Salad
- Tart green apples sliced into a peppery watercress salad with a mustard vinaigrette.
- A refreshing side dish for barbecues or picnics.
8. Apple and Berry Ice Lollies
- Made with blended apples, berries, and a splash of lemon juice.
- Frozen into moulds for a healthy summer treat.
Choosing the Right Apple for Each Recipe
Using the correct variety ensures the best texture and flavour in your dishes.
Cooking vs Eating Apples
- Cooking apples like Bramley break down easily and are ideal for pies, crumbles, and sauces.
- Eating apples such as Cox’s or Egremont Russet are better for raw uses, salads, and snacks.
Check the label or ask at your greengrocer to find the right apple for your needs.
Tips for Prepping Apples for Recipes
To get the most from your apples in the kitchen, a few basic prep techniques go a long way.
Apple Prep Tips
- Soak sliced apples in lemon water to prevent browning.
- Use a melon baller to remove cores from whole apples without cutting them.
Peeling may be optional depending on the recipe, but apple skin contains fibre and nutrients worth keeping in many dishes.
FAQs About Apple Recipes
Here are some questions and answers about using apples in seasonal recipes:
What is the best apple for making crumble?
Bramley apples are ideal as they become soft and tart when cooked, balancing sweet toppings beautifully.
Can I freeze apples for baking later?
Yes. Peel, slice, and freeze them in bags with a little lemon juice. Best used in cooked recipes like pies and sauces.
Are raw apples safe to use in baking?
Yes, but they should be firm eating apples like Gala or Braeburn, which retain their shape during baking.
How do I keep apples from turning brown in recipes?
Toss them with lemon juice or soak briefly in acidulated water before using in salads or uncooked dishes.
Do I have to peel apples for recipes?
Not always. Apple peel contains valuable nutrients and adds texture, but it can be removed if preferred for smoother results.