Apples are a staple fruit that are loved by many, but sometimes, you can end up with too many apples. Whether you have an apple tree in your backyard or went a little overboard at the farmer’s market, it’s easy to find yourself with more apples than you know what to do with. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to use up all of those apples before they go bad.
In this article, we will explore the different ways you can use up an abundance of apples. From making homemade applesauce to baking apple pies and even using them in savory dishes, there are numerous ways to get creative with your excess apples. So, if you’re wondering what to do with all of those apples sitting in your kitchen, keep reading for some delicious and practical ideas.
Creative Culinary Uses for Excess Apples
When you find yourself with an overwhelming amount of apples, don’t worry! There are countless creative ways to incorporate them into your cooking. First off, try making some homemade apple sauce. Simply peel and core your apples, add some cinnamon and sugar to taste, and let simmer on the stove until soft. Mash or puree the apples for a delicious and versatile condiment.
Another great use for excess apples is to whip up a batch of apple butter. Slowly cook peeled, chopped apples with sugar and spices until they break down into a smooth spread. This delicious spread can be used in sandwiches, on toast, or as a dip for crackers.
Other uses for excess apples include baking apple pies, cakes, muffins, and breads. You can also try making apple chips by slicing the apples thinly and baking them in the oven until crispy. Apples can add a sweet and tangy flavor to savory dishes like salads, stuffing, and roasted meats. With a little creativity in the kitchen, you’ll never have to worry about what to do with too many apples again.
Delicious Apple-Based Beverages to Try
Apples are a versatile fruit and can be used to make a variety of delicious beverages. Apple cider is a classic fall drink that can be made at home using a press or simply by simmering apple juice with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. This warm beverage is perfect for chilly nights and pairs well with baked goods like apple cider donuts or cinnamon rolls.
For a refreshing summer drink, try making apple lemonade. Simply mix freshly squeezed lemon juice, apple juice, and sugar to taste. Add in some sliced apples and fresh mint for an extra burst of flavor and color. Another great option is apple smoothies, which can be customized with different fruits and ingredients. Blend together apple slices, spinach, almond milk, and honey for a nutritious and delicious smoothie. The possibilities are endless when it comes to apple-based beverages, so get creative and experiment with different recipes!
The Art of Apple Preservation: Canning, Freezing, and Drying Tips
The art of apple preservation allows you to enjoy the delicious taste of apples all year round. Whether you have too many apples or want to save them for later, canning, freezing, and drying are effective ways to preserve them.
Canning apples involves boiling them in jars with a sugar syrup to kill any bacteria and create a long shelf life. Freezing apples requires slicing them and either coating them in lemon juice or a sugar syrup to prevent browning. Drying apples involves removing the water content from them to create a chewy and flavorful snack. Whichever method you choose, with the right techniques and storage, preserving apples can be a convenient and delicious way to use up your excess apples.
Sharing is Caring: Donating Your Extra Apples to Local Non-Profits
If you find yourself with an excess of apples, consider donating them to local non-profits. Many food pantries, homeless shelters, and other community organizations accept fresh produce as donations. By sharing your bounty, you are helping to provide nutritious food for those in need.
Not only does donating your extra apples help your local community, but it also reduces food waste. According to a report by the Natural Resources Defense Council, up to 40% of food in the United States goes uneaten and ends up in landfills. By donating your apples, you are contributing to a more sustainable food system by diverting them from the waste stream and putting them to good use.
Putting Your Apples to Work: DIY Projects and Crafts
If you have too many apples, instead of throwing them away, why not use them in some fun and creative DIY projects and crafts? There are countless ways to put your apples to work, ranging from home decor to beauty treatments.
Consider making apple candles by scooping out the flesh of the apple and placing a candle wick in the center. Alternatively, you could make natural apple potpourri by slicing apples thinly and baking them in the oven with cinnamon sticks and cloves. Or, use apple peels to create a DIY face mask that is rich in antioxidants and is perfect for rejuvenating your skin. By being resourceful, you can not only put your extra apples to good use, but also add some fun projects to your repertoire.
Feeding Your Feathered Friends: Using Apples to Attract Wild Birds
Wild birds are always in search of food, especially during the colder months when natural food sources become scarce. Apples can be a great source of nutrition for birds because they are loaded with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, dietary fiber, and potassium. By offering sliced or chopped apples on a bird feeder, you can quickly attract a variety of avian species to your yard. You can also place the apples on a sturdy tree branch that is close to a window so that you can watch birds feeding up close without disturbing them.
Apples can also be used as a quick energy source for birds during migration. You can leave apples in a tray or on the ground to attract thrushes, waxwings, and other birds who visit gardens during migration. When you toss old apples in the trash bin, you miss out this golden opportunity to help wildlife. So, instead of throwing your excess apples away, you can feed the birds and enjoy their beauty. Just make sure you remove any mold or rot before offering them to the birds.
Sustainable Apple Waste Reduction: Composting and Other Environmentally-Friendly Solutions
Composting is one of the most effective ways to reduce apple waste sustainably. By creating a compost pile, you can not only reduce the amount of waste in your landfills, but you can also boost the nutrient content of your soil. Composting apple waste is easy and requires very little effort. It can be done by simply collecting apple scraps, leaves and other organic waste in a bin and allowing them to decompose. After a few months, you will have nutrient-rich compost that can be used in your garden.
Another environmentally friendly solution to reduce apple waste is to donate excess apples to local food banks, soup kitchens or schools. Many of these organizations are always in need of fresh fruits, and your excess apples can help these organizations provide healthy options for those in need. Additionally, if you have apple trees, consider inviting your friends and neighbors to pick their own apples. This can help to reduce waste and ensure that the apples don’t go to waste. Overall, every little step you take can make a big difference in reducing apple waste sustainably.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, having too many apples can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be a problem. With a little creativity and willingness to try new things, you can find many different ways to use up your apple surplus. From making apple sauce and cider to baking apple desserts and incorporating them into savory dishes, there are countless ways to enjoy this versatile fruit.
Additionally, sharing your excess apples with friends, family, and even local food banks is a great way to spread the love and ensure that no apple goes to waste. So, go ahead and embrace your abundance of apples with open arms, and enjoy the many delicious and fulfilling ways you can put them to good use.