The sweet and tangy flavor of crabapples makes them a versatile ingredient for a variety of delicious recipes. Whether you’re looking to warm up with a spiced crabapple butter on a chilly fall morning or cool down with a refreshing crabapple sorbet on a hot summer day, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore 20 scrumptious crabapple recipes that are perfect for every season.
From sweet treats like crabapple pie and caramelized tart to savory dishes like roasted turkey and BBQ glaze for ribs, these recipes showcase the incredible flavor and versatility of crabapples. We’ll also share some unexpected uses for crabapples, such as making a tangy chutney with ginger or pickling them with cloves.
So grab your apron, get ready to cook up some deliciousness, and let’s dive into our collection of 20 mouthwatering crabapple recipes!
Spiced Crabapple Butter
Elevate your baked goods and toast with this sweet and spicy spread made from crabapples and a blend of warming spices. This recipe is perfect for the fall season when crabapples are in abundance.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crabapples, chopped
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 cup butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine chopped crabapples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
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 apples are tender and the liquid has thickened into a syrupy consistency.
4. Stir in butter until melted and smooth.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crabapple Jelly with Rosemary
Harness the flavors of fall with this unique crabapple jelly infused with the savory essence of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crabapples, chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 1 teaspoon)
– Pectin (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine crabapples, sugar, water, and lemon juice in a large saucepan.
2. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until fruit is tender.
3. Remove from heat and stir in chopped rosemary.
4. Allow mixture to cool slightly before straining through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot.
5. Discard solids and cook jelly over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer (about 10-15 minutes).
6. Remove from heat and let cool completely before transferring to airtight containers.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Crabapple and Pork Loin
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of crabapples with the rich flavor of pork loin, resulting in a deliciously balanced dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin
– 4-6 crabapples, cored and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the pork loin with salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, and Dijon mustard. Brush the mixture evenly over the pork loin.
4. Place the crabapples around the pork loin in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crabapple Pie with Cinnamon Crust
This sweet and tangy pie is perfect for fall, featuring the tart flavor of crabapples balanced by the warmth of cinnamon. The flaky crust adds an extra layer of texture and aroma to this seasonal treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crabapples, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine crabapples, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Let sit for 15 minutes.
3. Roll out the flour mixture to form a crust. Place in a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Fill the crust with the crabapple mixture.
5. Roll out remaining dough to form a top crust. Crimp edges to seal.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly.
7. Let cool before serving. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Crabapple Chutney with Ginger
This tangy chutney is a perfect condiment for your next barbecue or as a topping for naan bread. The sweetness of the crabapples pairs beautifully with the warmth of ginger, making it a unique and delicious addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crabapples, chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine crabapples, sugar, apple cider vinegar, ginger, and cinnamon.
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 chutney has thickened.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in salt to taste.
4. Transfer the chutney to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crabapple Cider
Savor the flavors of autumn with this refreshing homemade crabapple cider recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs crabapples, washed and chopped
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chopped crabapples, water, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
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 soft and the liquid has reduced slightly.
3. Strain the cider through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or container.
4. Discard the solids and let the cider cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Yield: Approximately 2 quarts of crabapple cider
Caramelized Crabapple Tart
Sweet and tangy crabapples meet flaky pastry in this delightful dessert. This caramelized crabapple tart is perfect for a cozy evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups crabapples, sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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. In a large skillet, combine crabapples, sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until crabapples are tender and caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Arrange the cooked crabapples on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape.
6. Brush edges with a little water and press gently to seal.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Crabapple and Cranberry Sauce
Add a sweet and tangy twist to your holiday gatherings with this unique crabapple and cranberry sauce recipe. This sweet-tart condiment is perfect for serving alongside roasted meats, crackers, or as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen crabapples, chopped
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine crabapples, cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and honey.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the fruit has broken down and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in cinnamon and remove from heat.
5. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Pickled Crabapples with Cloves
These tangy pickled crabapples are perfect as a side dish or used as an ingredient to add flavor to salads, cheeses, and charcuterie boards. The addition of warm cloves gives them a unique aromatic quality.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crabapples, sliced
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons pickling spice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine crabapple slices, vinegar, water, sugar, pickling spice, and ground cloves.
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 crabapples are tender.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Strain out the solids and discard the spices.
4. Transfer the pickled crabapples to a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crabapple-Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines tender chicken breast with a tangy crabapple filling. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup crabapples, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped crabapples, butter, garlic, and honey until well combined.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the crabapple mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crabapple and Pear Crisp
This sweet and tangy crisp combines the flavors of ripe pears and crabapples, topped with a crunchy oat mixture. Perfect for a cozy fall evening or as a unique dessert for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup crabapples, halved
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together pears and crabapples.
3. Add granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Toss until fruit is evenly coated.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter. Use your fingers or a pastry blender to work the butter into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
6. Top fruit mixture with oat mixture, spreading evenly.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until topping is golden brown and fruit is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crabapple BBQ Glaze for Ribs
Transform your ribs with this unique crabapple BBQ glaze, infusing sweet and tangy flavors into every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup crabapple jelly (or apple butter)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, crabapple jelly, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat (375°F).
3. Apply the glaze evenly over ribs during the last 15 minutes of cooking time.
4. Grill for an additional 5-7 minutes or bake for 10-12 minutes, or until caramelized and sticky.
Cooking Time:
– Grill: 2-3 hours + 15-minute glazing
– Oven: 2-3 hours + 10-12 minute glazing
Crabapple Sorbet with Mint
This refreshing sorbet is perfect for warm weather, combining the tartness of crabapples with the cooling essence of mint.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crabapples, pureed
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the crabapple puree, sugar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the chopped mint leaves.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
7. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Freeze the sorbet for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (plus chilling time)
Crabapple and Walnut Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of crabapples with the earthy flavor of walnuts, making it a perfect side dish for your next meal. The crunch from the walnuts and the tanginess from the apples will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh crabapples, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the crabapples and walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the crabapple mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Crabapple Infused Vodka
Transform your vodka into a unique and flavorful spirit with this simple recipe that combines the sweetness of crabapples with the tanginess of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup crabapples, sliced
– 1 liter vodka (at least 40% ABV)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Slices of lemon and lime for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large glass jar or container, combine the sliced crabapples and vodka.
2. Add the water and sugar to the jar, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Cover the jar with a lid and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 4 weeks, shaking the mixture every few days.
4. After the infusion period, strain the vodka through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle. Discard the solids.
5. Store the infused vodka in the refrigerator to slow down the infusion process.
Cooking Time: At least 4 weeks (plus storage time)
Crabapple and Vanilla Bean Jam
This homemade jam combines the tartness of crabapples with the warmth of vanilla beans, creating a unique and delicious spread perfect for toast, yogurt, or using as a topping for ice cream or pancakes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crabapples, chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine chopped crabapples, sugar, and water.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the fruit is tender and the mixture has thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in split vanilla bean and lemon juice.
4. Let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container for storage.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crabapple-Glazed Donuts
Sweet and tangy, these crabapple-glazed donuts are a unique twist on the classic treat.
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
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup crabapple jam or preserves
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, milk, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. Add eggs, melted butter, and crabapple jam; mix until smooth.
4. Cover and let the mixture rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and turn onto a floured surface; knead for 2-3 minutes.
6. Cut into desired shapes; fry donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Let cool on paper towels; glaze with crabapple jam while still warm.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crabapple and Brie Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet impressive crostini recipe, featuring the tangy sweetness of crabapples paired with creamy brie cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup crabapples, diced
– 8 oz brie cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
3. In a small bowl, mix together honey and Dijon mustard.
4. Top toasted crostini with a slice of brie cheese, followed by a spoonful of the crabapple mixture.
5. Drizzle the honey-mustard glaze over the top and sprinkle with chopped thyme leaves (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crabapple and Thyme Roasted Turkey
Elevate your holiday turkey game with this unique flavor combination that combines the sweetness of crabapples with the earthiness of thyme. This recipe yields a moist and aromatic bird that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 2 crabapples, diced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, butter, crabapples, and thyme.
4. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for 3-3 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-3 1/2 hours
Crabapple and Honey Granola Bars
These chewy granola bars combine the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of crabapples, creating a unique and delicious snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped dried crabapples
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, crabapples, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, combine honey, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Microwave for 30 seconds, stirring until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the sweet and tangy flavors of crabapples with these 20 delicious recipes for every season. From savory dishes like Roasted Crabapple and Pork Loin, to sweet treats like Crabapple Pie with Cinnamon Crust, there’s something for everyone. Try making Spiced Crabapple Butter or Crabapple Chutney with Ginger to add a twist to your meals. Or, indulge in Crabapple Sorbet with Mint or Crabapple-Glazed Donuts as a sweet treat. With so many recipes to choose from, you’ll be enjoying crabapples all year round!
Leave a Reply