As the leaves start to change and the crisp autumn air sets in, our thoughts turn to warm, comforting foods that celebrate the season. And what better way to do so than with the star of the fall harvest: the McIntosh apple? With its tender flesh and tangy sweetness, this classic Canadian variety is a chef’s dream come true. From sweet treats like pies and crisps, to savory dishes like stews and stuffings, McIntosh apples bring a depth of flavor and texture that’s hard to find elsewhere.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 delicious McIntosh apple recipes that are perfect for the fall season. Whether you’re looking for a classic dessert or a unique twist on a seasonal favorite, these recipes are sure to inspire your culinary creativity. So grab a bag of apples and let’s get cooking!
Classic McIntosh Apple Pie
A timeless classic, this apple pie recipe showcases the sweet and tangy flavor of McIntosh apples in a traditional pastry crust.
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 McIntosh apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
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 fingers to work into crumbs.
3. Gradually add water, stirring with a fork until dough forms.
4. Roll out half the dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Arrange apple slices in the pie crust, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Mix sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt; sprinkle over apples.
7. Roll out remaining dough to fit top of pie; crimp edges to seal.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
McIntosh Apple Crumble with Oat Topping
McIntosh Apple Crumble with Oat Topping Recipe
This classic dessert is a perfect blend of tender apples, crunchy oat topping, and warm spices. A comforting treat for any season!
Ingredients:
– 6-8 McIntosh apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 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 sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix 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. Top apple mixture with oat topping, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spiced McIntosh Apple Butter
Warm up with a deliciously spiced apple butter made with tender McIntosh apples and aromatic spices. Perfect as a topping for toast, biscuits, or yogurt, or as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 4 lbs McIntosh apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine chopped apples, brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender and mixture is thickened (about 30 minutes).
3. Stir in apple cider vinegar to prevent scorching.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until butter has reached desired consistency.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to airtight containers.
Cooking Time: About 40-45 minutes
Caramel-Glazed McIntosh Apple Tart
This sweet and tangy tart celebrates the flavors of fall, featuring tender McIntosh apples glazed with a rich caramel sauce and nestled in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 McIntosh apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. Arrange apple slices in a spiral pattern, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Drizzle melted butter and sprinkle sugar over apples.
4. Fold pastry edges up over apples, pressing gently to seal.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and vanilla extract. Brush mixture over tart, followed by caramel sauce.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
McIntosh Apple and Cinnamon Muffins
A delightful twist on traditional muffins, these McIntosh apple and cinnamon treats combine the sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup diced McIntosh apples (about 2 medium)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar for topping (optional)
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 flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, diced apples, and cinnamon. Stir until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Let cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker McIntosh Applesauce
Slow Cooker McIntosh Applesauce Recipe
Summary:
Elevate your applesauce game with this easy and delicious slow cooker recipe that showcases the sweet flavor of McIntosh apples.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 McIntosh apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the sliced apples, brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Add the water to the slow cooker and stir until the apples are coated with the mixture.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Remove the applesauce from the slow cooker and use an immersion blender (or transfer it to a blender) to puree the sauce to your desired consistency.
Cooking Time:
Low: 8-10 hours, High: 4-6 hours
McIntosh Apple and Walnut Salad
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this simple yet satisfying salad featuring crisp McIntosh apples, crunchy walnuts, and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 McIntosh apples, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced apples and chopped walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the apple-walnut mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (preparation only)
Maple-Roasted McIntosh Apples
Elevate your fall festivities with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the natural sweetness of McIntosh apples with the richness of pure maple syrup. The result is a caramelized, crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside treat perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 McIntosh apples, peeled and halved
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss apple halves with maple syrup, melted butter, and cinnamon until evenly coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange apples in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until apples are caramelized and tender.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
McIntosh Apple Stuffed Pork Chops
A sweet and savory twist on classic pork chops, these tender bites are filled with the warmth of McIntosh apples and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops (1/2 inch thick)
– 1 large McIntosh apple, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Stuff each pork chop with a spoonful of apple mixture, leaving a 1/4 inch border around edges.
4. Place butter on top of each stuffed pork chop.
5. Season with pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegan McIntosh Apple Crisp
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of fall with this delicious vegan apple crisp recipe featuring tender McIntosh apples, crunchy oat topping, and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 McIntosh apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup vegan butter (such as Earth Balance), melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples and sprinkle with brown sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together oats, melted vegan butter, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Pour the apple mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish and top with the oat mixture.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
McIntosh Apple and Cranberry Dutch Baby
This sweet and tangy dessert combines the tender flesh of McIntosh apples with the tartness of fresh cranberries, all wrapped up in a crispy pancake-like pastry. Perfect for a cozy autumn evening or as a unique brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large McIntosh apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together sliced apples and cranberries.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
4. Add milk, eggs, and melted butter to the dry ingredients; whisk until smooth.
5. Pour batter over apple-cranberry mixture in a 9-inch (23cm) skillet or Dutch oven.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
7. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
McIntosh Apple Bread Pudding
This classic bread pudding recipe gets a delicious twist with the addition of tender McIntosh apples, creating a sweet and satisfying dessert perfect for crisp fall evenings.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large McIntosh apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 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
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add chopped apples and mix until well combined.
4. Add bread cubes and toss until they are evenly coated with the apple mixture.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs. Pour over bread mixture and stir until absorbed.
6. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and dot with melted butter.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Baked McIntosh Apples with Honey and Nuts
Warm up to the sweet and satisfying flavors of baked apples, infused with honey and crunchy nuts.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 McIntosh apples, peeled and halved
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the honey, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Arrange the apple halves in a baking dish, leaving a little space between each apple half.
4. Spoon the honey mixture evenly over the apples, then sprinkle with chopped nuts.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
McIntosh Apple and Brie Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the sweet and savory combination of McIntosh apples and creamy brie cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 1/2 cup sliced McIntosh apples
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
– 2 ounces brie cheese, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with a slice of brie cheese, a few slices of McIntosh apple, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
6. Grill for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip the sandwich over and grill for an additional 2-3 minutes.
8. Remove from heat and let cool for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
McIntosh Apple and Sage Stuffing
This savory stuffing combines the warmth of sage with the sweetness of McIntosh apples, creating a delicious and unique side dish perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large McIntosh apples, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and melted butter until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the diced apples and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine the bread, cooked apple mixture, chopped sage, salt, and pepper. Mix until the bread is evenly coated.
5. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the stuffing is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade McIntosh Apple Jelly
Capture the essence of fall with this delicious homemade McIntosh apple jelly recipe, made with tender love and a hint of sweetness. This classic jam is perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups peeled, cored, and chopped McIntosh apples
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Pectin (homemade or commercial)
Instructions:
1. Combine apple chunks, sugar, water, and lemon juice in a large pot.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Add pectin and stir to combine.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the jelly reaches your desired consistency (220°F on a candy thermometer).
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before straining through a fine-mesh sieve into clean jars.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40 minutes
McIntosh Apple Pancakes with Caramel Drizzle
Start your day off right with a delicious and flavorful breakfast featuring the sweetness of McIntosh apples and the richness of caramel.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 cup diced McIntosh apples
– Caramel drizzle (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, milk, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined. Do not overmix.
4. Fold in the diced apples.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve pancakes warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
McIntosh Apple and Cheddar Hand Pies
A sweet and savory twist on the classic hand pie, these bite-sized treats combine tender McIntosh apples with sharp cheddar cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 2-3 McIntosh apples, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, butter, and ice-cold water. Mix until dough forms.
3. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Arrange apple and cheese mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
5. Fold other half of dough over filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Place hand pies on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with the sweet and tangy flavor of McIntosh apples! This season, try out 18 delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of this beloved variety. From classic apple pie to savory pork chops and sweet pancakes, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of baking, cooking, or snacking, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to become your new fall favorites.