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Why You Should Add Apples to Your Grocery List (Plus 10 Ways to Eat Them)

November 30, 2020

Apples are photographed against a red back drop. This story goes over affordable apple recipes.

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The list of reasons to eat apples is a long one. They’re healthy (fiber! vitamin C! antioxidants!) and tasty — and they’re inexpensive.

The average price per pound of Red Delicious apples in 2019 was $1.18, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Granny Smiths: $1.23 per pound, That’s cheap enough to pad your grocery budget, while also setting you up for a host of healthy, affordable apple recipes.

But before we get to the recipes, let’s get a few things straight about apples.

How Do I Select the Best Apple?

Apple experts say the best indicator of an apple’s quality is firmness. When you squeeze the apple gently, you shouldn’t feel any give.

You can store apples in the fridge to make them last longer, but if you find yourself with a soggy apple, don’t despair. Some of the recipes below will help you put those less-than-perfect fruits to delicious use.

What Kind of Apple Should I Buy?

Well, it depends on whether you want to munch on the apple or bake with it.

If you’re looking for something to snack on, try a Gala (my fave!), Jonagold or one from this list. For baking, the easiest apples to come by are Red Delicious, Pink Lady, or one of these.

All apples should be stored in the fridge. They’ll last longer in there.

What Should I Do With All These Apples?

I thought you’d never ask! Here’s a roundup of delicious apple recipes on my list for fall

1. Apple Muffins

Of course we’re going to make muffins.

This is the time to break out your less-crisp or past-their-prime apples. You won’t notice the difference once they’re been turned into muffins. This recipe includes a cinnamon topping that will put them over the top.

2. Green Apple Smoothie

I don’t see too many apple smoothies flying around the Internet, but green apples are a great addition to your morning smoothie. Their strong, tart taste is great for masking the bitterness of vegetables you sneak into your drink.

3. Broccoli and Apple Salad

So many textures are at play in this crunchy, creamy broccoli and apple salad! It’s a new take on a salad I used to see on my grandma’s dinner table.

The recipe subs in Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise to keep the salad lower in calories.

Spiced bourbon apple pie is photographed with a side of ice cream. — Photo courtesy of A Beautiful Mess

4. Spiced Bourbon Apple Pie

Nothing says fall like a freshly baked apple pie.

And this spiced bourbon apple pie is straight-up the cutest one I’ve ever seen. The bourbon brings a new spin to traditional apple pie, but you can leave it out if you wish.

5. Apple Pie Biscuits

I have to admit that I’m not a big pie-baker. I don’t have the patience! So these apple pie biscuits are right up my alley.

The recipe embraces the messiness of biscuits and adds the sweet filling of a pie. Trust me, any recipe from Joy the Baker will be delicious.

6. Slow-Cooker Caramel Apple Pie Dip

This slow-cooker apple pie dip would be perfect for a Halloween party (or a normal Wednesday night).

Just pop the ingredients in a slow cooker for two hours and you’ve got a sticky, sweet, apple dip to serve about eight people.

7. Applesauce Fruit Blends

This recipe takes applesauce in a new direction by adding other fruits for both color and flavor. The blueberry, strawberry and peach options all sound delicious, while still keeping apples as the base.

Can some jars of this treat during the fall and you’ll be eating applesauce through the winter.

8. Apple Cinnamon Pancakes

These quick pancakes are perfect for a morning on the go or a breakfast-for-dinner situation. Top the classic pancakes with gooey applesauce for a twist on a fall-themed meal.

9. Baked Apple Chips

You don’t need a dehydrator to make these crunchy baked apple crisps. Whipping up your own apple chips is a great way to save some money, since they’re not cheap in grocery stores or online.

They’re also excellent as after-school snacks, office-lunch sides and a healthy cure for any sweet tooth.