Introduction: The Versatility of Canned Apples
Canned apples are a pantry staple that can make life easier for home cooks. They’re convenient, ready to use, and can add a touch of sweetness to a wide variety of dishes. Whether you’re making a dessert, side dish, or even a savory meal, canned apple recipes offer a quick way to infuse the classic apple flavor without the hassle of peeling, coring, and chopping fresh fruit.
In this article, we’ll explore the best canned apple recipes that you can make in a snap. From classic desserts like apple pies and crisps to unique dishes like apple-stuffed pork chops, there’s a canned apple recipe for every occasion. Let’s dive into these easy-to-make and delicious ideas that will leave you craving more!
Why Use Canned Apples?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about why canned apples are a great addition to your kitchen. Here are some of the benefits of using canned apples in your cooking:
- Convenience: Canned apples are pre-prepared and ready to use, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
- Year-Round Availability: Fresh apples can be seasonal, but canned apples are available year-round, making them a great option when apples aren’t in season.
- Shelf Life: Canned apples have a long shelf life, so you can stock up and use them whenever you need them.
- Versatility: They can be used in a variety of dishes, from sweet desserts to savory meals, and everything in between.
Now that we’ve established the perks, let’s jump into some of the best canned apple recipes you can try!
Top Canned Apple Recipes to Try
Here are some delicious recipes that make the most of canned apples. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic dessert or something a little more savory, these recipes will get you inspired.
1. Classic Apple Pie with Canned Apples
Apple pie is a timeless dessert, and using canned apples makes it even easier to whip up this classic treat. This recipe ensures that you can make a perfect apple pie, no matter the season.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans of canned apples (around 15 oz each)
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
- Prepare the apples: Drain the canned apples and discard the syrup. In a large bowl, toss the apples with lemon juice, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure the apples are evenly coated with the spices.
- Assemble the pie: Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill it with the apple mixture, and dot the filling with butter.
- Top the pie: Cover the pie with the second pie crust. Pinch the edges to seal the crust and make a few slits on top for ventilation.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let the pie cool before serving.
Why It Works: Using canned apples makes this recipe a breeze, as the apples are already softened and ready to go, while still providing that delicious, traditional apple pie taste.
2. Apple Crisp with Canned Apples
Apple crisp is another classic dessert that’s simple to make and delicious every time. The combination of tender apples and a crunchy topping is irresistible. Here’s how to make it with canned apples.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans of canned apples, drained
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
- Prepare the apples: Drain the canned apples and place them in a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Spread them out evenly.
- Make the topping: In a separate bowl, mix the oats, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is crumbly.
- Assemble: Sprinkle the oat mixture over the apples, covering them evenly.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the apples are bubbling. Let cool slightly before serving.
Why It Works: This recipe is a great way to use canned apples because the crispy oat topping complements the tender canned apples perfectly. It’s an easy, comforting dessert for any occasion.
3. Apple Stuffed Pork Chops with Canned Apples
Who says canned apples are only for desserts? This savory dish combines the sweet, tart flavor of apples with savory pork chops for a unique meal that’s both sweet and salty.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops
- 1 can of canned apples, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
- Prepare the stuffing: In a small pan, melt the butter and sauté the onion until softened. Add the canned apples, breadcrumbs, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined and set aside to cool.
- Stuff the pork chops: Cut a pocket into each pork chop and stuff it with the apple mixture.
- Cook the pork chops: Heat a pan over medium-high heat and sear the stuffed pork chops on both sides until golden brown. Once seared, add the chicken broth to the pan, cover, and reduce the heat. Let the pork chops cook for 15-20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Serve: Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving.
Why It Works: The sweetness of the canned apples balances the savory pork, creating a delicious contrast of flavors. The stuffing also adds an extra layer of texture.
4. Apple Muffins with Canned Apples
These apple muffins are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even as a quick dessert. Using canned apples gives them a moist, flavorful base without the need to peel and chop fresh apples.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of canned apples, drained and finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, oil, egg, and buttermilk. Stir in the canned apples.
- Combine and bake: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Why It Works: The canned apples add moisture and flavor to the muffins, and their sweetness pairs perfectly with the cinnamon for a comforting treat.
Tips for Using Canned Apples in Recipes
- Drain the Canned Apples: Always drain the canned apples well before using them in recipes, especially if you’re making a dessert or dish that requires a dry texture.
- Sweeten to Taste: Depending on the type of canned apples you purchase, they may already be sweetened. Adjust the amount of sugar in your recipes to suit your taste.
- Add Spice: Canned apples pair wonderfully with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Adding these spices will enhance the flavor in both sweet and savory recipes.
Conclusion
Canned apples are incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide variety of dishes, both sweet and savory. Whether you’re looking to bake a classic apple pie, enjoy a warm and comforting apple crisp, or create a unique dish like apple-stuffed pork chops, canned apples offer convenience and delicious flavor.
These recipes are just the beginning—let your creativity guide you as you experiment with canned apples in your kitchen. Stock up on canned apples, and you’ll always have the perfect ingredient for any recipe that calls for apple goodness.