As the seasons change and fall arrives, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a warm, comforting apple dessert. Whether you’re a fan of classic pies, gooey crisps, or decadent cakes, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 irresistibly sweet apple dessert recipes.
From the familiar comfort of homemade apple pie to innovative twists like caramel apple cheesecake bars and apple fritter donuts, there’s something for every taste and occasion. In this article, we’ll take a journey through the world of apple desserts, exploring the best ways to showcase the versatility and sweetness of this beloved fruit.
So grab a cup of hot cider, get cozy, and let’s dive into our ultimate guide to indulgent apple desserts!
Classic Apple Pie with Flaky Crust
A timeless dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, this classic apple pie recipe combines tender apples with a buttery, flaky crust. With just the right amount of sweetness and spice, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup ice-cold water
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add water, stirring with a fork until dough forms.
4. Roll out half of the dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Fill pie crust with apple mixture and roll out remaining dough for top crust. Crimp edges to seal.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
A sweet and tangy dessert that combines the flavors of caramel apples with a creamy cheesecake filling, all on top of a buttery shortbread crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into a 9×9-inch baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over crust.
5. Arrange apple slices on top of cheesecake batter.
6. Drizzle caramel sauce over apples.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set.
8. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Roll Ups
These sweet and indulgent treats combine the warmth of cinnamon with the crunch of fresh apple, all wrapped up in a tender dough.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups warm water
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apple (such as Granny Smith)
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon sugar (equal parts cinnamon and sugar)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, warm water, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
4. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Sprinkle apple and cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the dough.
6. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from one of the long edges.
7. Slice into 12 equal pieces.
8. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips:
– Use a sharp knife to slice the roll-ups for clean cuts.
– Serve warm and enjoy with your favorite coffee or tea!
Dutch Apple Streusel Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of apples with the crunch of a buttery streusel topping, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or other tart variety)
– 1/2 cup streusel topping mixture (see below)
Streusel Topping:
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until combined.
4. Beat in eggs and milk.
5. Fold in diced apples.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
7. Sprinkle streusel topping evenly over the top of the cake.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Spiced Apple Crisp with Oat Topping
Warm up to the perfect fall treat with this deliciously spiced apple crisp topped with a crunchy oat mixture. Perfect for a cozy evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In another bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and chopped walnuts (if using). Add melted butter and stir until crumbly.
5. Top apple mixture with oat topping, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple Fritter Donuts with Glaze
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these soft and fluffy donuts infused with the warmth of apple fritters. The combination of tender apples, sweet glaze, and crispy donut exterior will make this treat a new fall favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 1 medium apple)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Glaze: powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. Add eggs, milk, and diced apples; mix until smooth.
4. Pipe dough into donut shapes and fry for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Drain excess oil and let cool.
6. For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Drizzle over cooled donuts.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including frying time)
Warm Apple Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream
As the temperatures drop, warm up with this comforting apple crumble paired with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. This classic dessert is perfect for cozying up with family and friends on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 scoop vanilla ice cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Spread oat mixture evenly over the apple filling.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until topping is golden brown and apples are tender.
7. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce
This rich and comforting dessert combines the sweetness of apples and caramel, perfect for a cozy evening treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). In a large bowl, whisk together bread, apple, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm with caramel sauce drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple Turnovers with Puff Pastry
These sweet and flaky pastries are perfect for a cozy fall evening or a snack to bring to the office. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Spoon apple mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Brush edges with beaten egg and fold other half of pastry over filling. Press edges together to seal.
6. Place turnovers on baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apple Cobbler with Brown Sugar Topping
This classic apple cobbler recipe is a staple of American desserts, featuring tender apples topped with a crispy brown sugar crust. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a warm treat at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Transfer the apple mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Pour melted butter over the apples.
5. Mix brown sugar, rolled oats, and cinnamon in a small bowl; sprinkle evenly over the apples.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
Baked Apples Stuffed with Nuts and Raisins
Warm Up with Baked Apples Stuffed with Nuts and Raisins
This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, featuring tender apples stuffed with crunchy nuts and sweet raisins. The result is a delightful dessert or snack that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the apples and scoop out the cores, leaving the bottoms intact.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Stuff each apple with the sugar mixture, followed by the chopped walnuts and raisins.
5. Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Frosting
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these tender apple blondies topped with a creamy cinnamon frosting. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a dessert to impress your friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups brown sugar
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– Cinnamon frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then fold in diced apples.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cinnamon Frosting:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons milk
Beat butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add cinnamon and mix well. Gradually add milk to achieve desired consistency.
Apple Galette with Honey Drizzle
Apple Galette with Honey Drizzle Recipe
A sweet and rustic dessert that showcases the flavors of fresh apples and warm honey. This easy-to-make galette is perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange apple slices, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle sugar and cinnamon over the apples.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush pastry with heavy cream and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
8. Drizzle warm honey over the galette and serve.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple Dump Cake with Cinnamon Chips
This moist and flavorful cake is packed with tender apples, crunchy cinnamon chips, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a cozy evening dessert or brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped apples (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1 cup cinnamon chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Fold in chopped apples and stir until combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and top with cinnamon chips.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Mug Cake
In just a few minutes, you can enjoy a deliciously moist and flavorful apple cinnamon mug cake, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. This recipe is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1-2 chunks of apple (about 1 inch), peeled and chopped
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Add the melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
3. Fold in the chopped apple.
4. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until the cake is cooked through and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes
Apple Pie Cookies with Caramel Filling
These soft-baked cookies are infused with the warmth of apple pie spices and filled with a sweet caramel surprise.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– Caramel filling (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in chopped apples.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
7. Once cookies are cool, fill with caramel filling and serve.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Apple Strudel with Phyllo Dough
Enjoy the classic combination of tender apples and crispy phyllo dough in this simple yet delicious Apple Strudel recipe. This traditional pastry is perfect for dessert or a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Layer phyllo dough in a 9×13 inch baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
5. Place apple mixture on top of phyllo layers, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Fold edges of phyllo over filling to form a crust.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Apple Cider Donut Holes
These bite-sized treats are infused with the warmth and comfort of apple cider, perfect for a crisp autumn morning or an after-school snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons apple cider
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix together sugar, milk, eggs, and apple cider.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Drop small balls of dough into the hot oil, about 1/2 cup each. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Summary
Indulge in the sweetness of autumn with these 18 decadent apple dessert recipes! From classic apple pie to caramel apple cheesecake bars, and from apple fritter donuts to warm apple crumble, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Try your hand at making a flaky crust apple pie, or get creative with spiced apple crisp topped with oatmeal. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or something new, these irresistible recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.