As the seasons change, our taste buds crave dishes that capture the essence of each time of year. One fruit that fits the bill is the humble crab apple – tart, tangy, and full of flavor. With its firm texture and bright green color, it’s a natural fit for a wide range of recipes, from sweet treats to savory sides.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious crab apple recipes, each one showcasing the versatility and charm of this underrated fruit. From chutneys and jams to pies and tarts, we’ve got you covered with ideas that will keep your taste buds dancing throughout the year.
Spiced Crab Apple Chutney
This sweet and spicy chutney is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, naan bread, or as a topping for crackers. The combination of crab meat, apples, and warm spices creates a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine crab meat, chopped apples, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Crab Apple and Cinnamon Jam
This homemade jam recipe combines the sweet and tangy flavors of crab apples with warm cinnamon, perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crab apples, chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 lemon, juiced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chopped crab apples, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until apples are tender and mixture has thickened.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cinnamon. Add mixture to the pot and stir to combine.
4. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until jam has reached desired consistency.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Strain seeds and pulp through a fine-mesh sieve if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-50 minutes
Roasted Crab Apple Butter
Elevate your culinary game with this unique and delicious Roasted Crab Apple Butter recipe, perfect for spreading on toast, using as a topping for pancakes or waffles, or incorporating into sauces and marinades.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 apples (Granny Smith or other sweet-tart variety), peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine crab meat, chopped apples, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Toss until well combined and all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a cast-iron skillet.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the apples are tender and the crab is lightly caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yield: About 1 cup of Roasted Crab Apple Butter
Crab Apple Pie with Walnut Crust
This classic pie recipe combines the natural sweetness of crab apples with the earthy flavor of walnuts, creating a unique and delicious dessert. Perfect for fall or winter gatherings, this pie is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 cup walnut halves
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
For the filling:
– 6 cups crab apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a food processor, combine walnuts, flour, salt, and pepper; process until coarsely chopped.
3. Add butter; pulse until mixture forms a crumbly dough.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Fill with apple mixture (combine sliced apples, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt).
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly.
Crab Apple and Ginger Cordial
This sweet and tangy cordial is perfect for a crisp autumn evening or as a refreshing pick-me-up any time of the year. The combination of crab apples, fresh ginger, and spices creates a unique flavor profile that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crab apples, chopped
– 1 large piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6 cloves
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chopped crab apples, sliced ginger, sugar, water, cinnamon stick, and cloves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the apples are tender.
3. Remove the cordial from heat and let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the cordial through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or jug. Discard the solids.
5. Store the cordial in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Crab Apple Tart
This sweet and savory tart combines the natural sweetness of crab apples with the rich flavor of caramelization, perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups crab apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, combine chopped crab apples, granulated sugar, and unsalted butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until apples are caramelized and tender (about 15-20 minutes).
4. Arrange caramelized apple mixture on one half of the puff pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
5. Fold other half of puff pastry over apples to form a triangle or shape of your choice.
6. Brush with honey and sprinkle with salt.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crab Apple and Rosemary Jelly
This sweet and savory jelly is perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a glaze for meats or cheeses. The combination of tart crab apples and fragrant rosemary creates a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs crab apples, chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Combine the chopped crab apples and sugar in a large pot.
2. Add the water, rosemary leaves, and lemon juice to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the liquid has thickened.
4. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
6. Strain the jelly through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Slow-Cooked Crab Apple Sauce
Add a touch of indulgence to your holiday gatherings with this sweet and tangy Slow-Cooked Crab Apple Sauce. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with the richness of crab meat, perfect for serving alongside pork chops, roasted turkey, or as a dip for crackers.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh apples (Granny Smith or Braeburn), peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup crab meat (jumbo lump or claw)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a large slow cooker, combine chopped apples, crab meat, brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Pour in apple cider vinegar and stir until everything is well coated.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Stir the mixture occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crab Apple and Cranberry Relish
This sweet and tangy relish is a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats, cheeses, or crackers. Its unique flavor profile is achieved by combining the tartness of crab apples with the sweetness of cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh crab apples (about 2-3 apples)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine the cranberries, chopped crab apples, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Process until coarsely chopped and well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None
This relish will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Pickled Crab Apples with Star Anise
This recipe combines the sweetness of crab apples with the warmth of star anise and a tangy vinegar brine, creating a deliciously complex condiment perfect for topping cheese plates or using as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb crab apples, sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 star anise pod, whole
– 1 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and add sliced crab apples. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until apples are tender.
3. Add whole star anise pod and continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Remove from heat and let cool completely before refrigerating.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Crab Apple and Pear Crumble
This sweet and tangy crumble combines the flavors of crab apples, pears, and spices to create a delicious dessert perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crab apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine crab apples, pears, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the apple-pear mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Top the fruit with the crumble mixture, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Crab Apple Infused Vodka
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique and flavorful infused vodka recipe that combines the sweetness of crab apples with the crispness of a well-made spirit. Perfect for sipping on its own or mixing into your favorite cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 1 liter of vodka (at least 40% ABV)
– 2 cups of crab apples, sliced
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 1 cup of water
Instructions:
1. Combine the sliced crab apples and granulated sugar in a large glass jar or container.
2. Pour the vodka over the apple mixture, making sure that all the fruit is covered.
3. Add the cup of water to the jar, stirring gently to combine.
4. Store the jar in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks, shaking the jar every other day to infuse the flavors.
5. Strain the vodka through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
Cooking Time: 14 days
Crab Apple and Thyme Roasted Chicken
This recipe combines the sweetness of crab apples with the earthiness of thyme to create a truly autumnal roasted chicken. The result is a moist, flavorful bird that’s perfect for a cozy dinner party or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2-3 crab apples, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sliced crab apples, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff the apple mixture inside the cavity of the chicken.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Crab Apple and Almond Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of crab apples with the crunch of almonds, perfect for a cozy fall evening. With its subtle tartness and nutty aroma, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup crab apple puree (or 2-3 chopped fresh crab apples)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add crab apple puree and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in sliced almonds. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Crab Apple and Vanilla Bean Syrup
This syrup combines the tart flavor of crab apples with the warm, comforting taste of vanilla beans, creating a delicious and unique condiment perfect for fall and winter.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crab apples, chopped
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. Combine chopped crab apples, water, and sugar in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the apples are tender.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
5. Slice the vanilla bean into thin strips and add them to the syrup.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Savory Crab Apple and Onion Galette
This elegant galette combines the sweetness of apples with the savory flavor of crab, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and apple in butter until tender. Add crab meat and cook for 1 minute.
4. Arrange the apple-onion-crab mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape.
6. Brush the pastry with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crab Apple and Clove Mulled Wine
As the temperature drops, this aromatic mulled wine recipe is sure to warm your heart and soul. The sweet and tangy flavors of crab apples pair perfectly with the warmth of cloves, creating a perfect blend for cozy winter nights.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 2-3 crab apples, peeled and chopped
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine wine, crab apples, cinnamon stick, and cloves.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the wine has reached your desired level of warmth.
4. Remove from heat and stir in brown sugar until dissolved.
5. Strain the mulled wine into a serving pitcher or individual mugs. Add sliced orange to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crab Apple and Honey Glazed Pork
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of crab apples with the richness of honey to create a glaze that elevates pork to new heights. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork loin or shoulder
– 1 cup crab apple jam
– 1/4 cup pure honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together crab apple jam, honey, olive oil, and cumin.
3. Season pork with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the glaze all over the pork, making sure it’s evenly coated.
5. Place pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-60 minutes
Crab Apple and Cardamom Sorbet
Experience the unique flavors of Asia with this refreshing sorbet, combining sweet crab apples with warm cardamom notes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crab apples, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine chopped crab apples, sugar, water, and ground cardamom.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the apples are tender.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl, pressing on solids to extract as much juice as possible.
5. Whisk in lemon juice and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Once frozen, scoop and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (simmering), 2 hours or overnight (refrigerating)
Crab Apple and Oatmeal Breakfast Muffins
Start your day with a delicious and wholesome breakfast treat that combines the sweetness of crab apples with the heartiness of oatmeal. These moist and flavorful muffins are perfect for a quick morning pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup crab apple puree (see note)
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, crab apple puree, and milk. Stir until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of crab apples with these 20 delicious recipes for every season! From savory dishes like Roasted Crab Apple Butter and Savory Crab Apple and Onion Galette, to sweet treats like Caramelized Crab Apple Tart and Crab Apple and Almond Cake, there’s something for everyone. Plus, discover refreshing drinks like Crab Apple Infused Vodka and Crab Apple and Vanilla Bean Syrup, as well as perfect pairings for meals like Crab Apple and Thyme Roasted Chicken and Crab Apple and Honey Glazed Pork. Treat your taste buds to the best of crab apples!