Whether you stock up at the supermarket, have your own tree, or spend a Saturday afternoon at a U-pick orchard, your larder is bound to be bursting with apples in the fall. Of course, they’re delicious eaten out of hand, but we have a few ideas to turn them into something really special.
Our apple pie covered with pastry leaves offers a pretty twist on tradition, and we’ve got cakes, pies and crisps with easy make-ahead crumb toppings, putting a delicious dessert within reach even on a busy weeknight. At the other end of the spectrum is the tarte Tatin: this upside-down tart of caramelized apples is a bit of a project, but our step-by-step technique takes away all the guesswork.
The type of apples you choose are just as important as your technique, so be sure to check out our guide to the best apples for baking. We’ve also assembled some of our favorite pie, pastry and apple-prep tools.
Last but not least, don’t miss our bonus download apple dessert recipe collection—available free of charge when you register with your name and email address. From juicy turnovers to an elegant galette to a homey bread pudding, there’s something for every palate.