Apple Compote: A Delightful Treat for Your Baking Adventures

Richly flavored with warm spices, vanilla, and a bit of orange, this apple compote is absolutely dreamy on top of everything from pancakes and French toast to ice cream.

Glass jar and white bowl, both filled with apple compote and set on a wooden board next to cinnamon sticks.

Fancy-sounding dishes that are secretly super easy to make are totally my jam. Whipped cherry butter looks beautiful on your table but comes together in just minutes. Cranberry brie bites always impress guests but are made with just three ingredients. And this apple compote sounds fancy but takes almost no effort to prepare.

What is Apple Compote?

The name “apple compote” sounds fancy, doesn’t it? It feels like something that would be served at a high-end restaurant. However, fruit compotes are quite simple to create! A compote is essentially fruit stewed in sugar or syrup. They can be made with a variety of fruits such as berries, stone fruits, and even dried fruits.

This apple compote is crafted with diced apples, a touch of brown sugar, warm spices, and a hint of orange for added depth of flavor. It is incredibly easy to make, and you’ll love how the spices and citrus complement the tartness of the apples.

Apple Compote vs. Applesauce

Though apple compote and applesauce may appear similar, they are, in fact, two distinct preparations. Applesauce typically involves adding water when cooking down the apples, resulting in a smooth pureed texture. Applesauce can also be made sugar-free, contrary to compote, which requires sugar to maintain its definition. Meanwhile, apple compote consists of apples cooked without added water, retaining a chunkier texture while heavily relying on sugar.

How to Make Apple Compote

Even though “apple compote” sounds sophisticated, this recipe is straightforward and will likely have you making it regularly!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Apple compote is made with just a handful of ingredients:

  • Apples: Using tart apples like Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, or Pink Lady works best. You’ll need about 2 pounds, cored and diced into ½-inch pieces.
  • Light Brown Sugar: Adds depth of flavor. Just ½ cup ensures the compote is not overly sweet, still highlighting the apple’s tartness.
  • Apple Pie Spice: Rather than just cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice combines several spices like ginger, nutmeg, and allspice for added complexity.
  • Citrus: Lemon juice adds acidity, while orange juice gives depth. Adding citrus zest is optional.
  • Vanilla: A must for any sweet recipe! Use store-bought or homemade.

Making This Recipe

Combine all ingredients except for the vanilla in a medium, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-low heat. Cook while stirring frequently for approximately 30-40 minutes until the apples soften but retain their shape, and the juices thicken to a syrupy consistency. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla. Wow, that was easy!

Serving Suggestions

The versatility of apple compote is its best keystone; serve it warm or cold, making it perfect for preparation ahead of time. Pair it with buttermilk pancakes, Bisquick waffles, or French toast for breakfast. For a snack, enjoy it over vanilla yogurt, topped with a sprinkle of granola for crunch.

For dessert, try it with no-churn ice cream or atop cheesecake. Its lovely flavors also pair well with savory dishes like pork chops, enhancing the dish’s taste.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Store apple compote in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It can be easily prepared a day or two in advance. Reheat in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or over low heat on the stove.

Alternatively, it can be frozen for up to three months, though keep in mind that the freezing process may cause some break down of the apples.

Regardless of how you serve it, apple compote is one delicious kitchen staple that you’ll find yourself making repeatedly!

Ingredients Instructions
  • 2 lbs tart apples, peeled and diced
  • ½ cup light brown sugar
  • 1 tsp apple pie spice
  • ¼ cup orange juice
  • Zest of half an orange (optional)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  1. Combine apples, brown sugar, apple pie spice, orange juice, orange zest, and lemon juice in a medium pot over medium-low heat. Cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring frequently.
  2. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.
  3. Serve warm or chilled over various dishes.
  4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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