37 Apple Desserts That Make Us Want to Pick the Whole Orchard
“Fall desserts” could include lots of delicious things, but when cool winds blow, we tend to pine for apple desserts. You too? Welcome, friend. Whether they’re sweet apples or tart apples, apples cooked to a sticky paste or gently warmed to retain their crisp bite, all the fruit really needs to shine is a little butter, some cinnamon sugar, and heat. (And a scoop of vanilla ice cream never hurts.)
When choosing the best apples for baking, especially in fall, you’ve got a lot to consider. Steer clear of more expensive varieties like Fuji and Honeycrisp apples, meant for eating out of hand. Instead, look for mid-range apples. Tart apple varieties like Granny Smiths and Pink Ladies are our go-to’s, but sweet apples, such as Golden Delicious and Braeburns, also work well. The former add zing to a batter or filling and better hold their shape, while the latter bring rich flavor and juicy texture. For many baking projects, we like a mix.
As to whether or not you should peel your apples, it’s dealer’s choice. Some bakers include apple skins for added pectin, nutrition, or color. Others simply don’t like the texture. For most recipes, the decision is entirely preferential.
