18 Creative Dried Apple Recipes for Homemade Delights

Dried apples are the unsung heroes of your pantry—sweet, chewy, and packed with cozy flavor. Whether you’re craving a quick snack, a rustic dessert, or a surprising twist on dinner, these 18 creative recipes will turn humble dried apples into homemade delights. From spiced granola to savory stuffing, get ready to fall in love with this versatile ingredient all over again. Let’s dive in!

Cinnamon Spiced Dried Apple Chips

These crispy, lightly sweetened apple chips are a guilt-free snack with just the right hint of warm spice—perfect for packing in lunches or munching by the fire.

Ingredients:

• 2 large apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji work well), thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 200°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Toss apple slices with 1 tbsp lemon juice to prevent browning. Pat dry lightly with a paper towel.
3. In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp nutmeg. Sprinkle evenly over both sides of the apple slices.
4. Arrange slices in a single layer on baking sheets. Bake for 1.5 hours, flip slices, then bake another 1.5 hours until dry and crisp (thicker slices may need 15–30 extra minutes).

The slow bake gives these chips an irresistible crunch without any frying—and the cinnamon-sugar caramelizes just enough to make them addictive!

Tip: For extra-thin slices, use a mandoline (watch those fingers!) or the slicing side of a box grater.

Homemade Dried Apple Pie Filling

This Homemade Dried Apple Pie Filling is a pantry staple that brings warm, spiced sweetness to pies, crisps, or even oatmeal—no fresh apples required!

• 4 cups dried apple slices (unsweetened)
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3 cups water
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

1. In a medium saucepan, combine dried apple slices, 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, 1/4 cup cornstarch, 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, 1/8 tsp cloves, and 1/4 tsp salt. Stir in 3 cups water and 1 tbsp lemon juice.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15–18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften and the liquid thickens to a glossy syrup.
3. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract. Let cool completely before using or storing.

The magic here? Dried apples soak up the spiced syrup, plumping into a jammy texture that holds its shape beautifully in pies—no soggy bottoms!

Tip: For deeper flavor, let the filling sit overnight in the fridge before using.

Maple Glazed Dried Apple Scones

These Maple Glazed Dried Apple Scones are buttery, warmly spiced, and drizzled with just the right amount of sweetness—perfect for a cozy morning treat.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup chopped dried apples
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, plus 1 tbsp for brushing
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tbsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp nutmeg.
3. Cut in 1/2 cup cold cubed butter with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in 1/2 cup chopped dried apples.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 egg, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Pour into the dry ingredients and mix just until combined.
5. Turn dough onto a floured surface, shape into an 8-inch circle, and cut into 8 wedges. Transfer to the baking sheet, brush with 1 tbsp heavy cream, and bake for 18–20 minutes until golden.
6. While warm, drizzle scones with 1/4 cup maple syrup.

The maple glaze soaks slightly into the crumb, adding moisture and a caramel-like depth to every bite. Tip: For extra texture, toast the dried apples in a dry skillet for 2 minutes before chopping.

Dried Apple and Walnut Granola Bars

These chewy, wholesome granola bars are packed with cozy cinnamon-spiced apples and crunchy walnuts—perfect for a quick breakfast or an on-the-go snack.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup chopped dried apples
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides.
2. Spread oats on a rimmed baking sheet. Toast in the oven for 10 minutes, stirring once, until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
3. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm honey, peanut butter, coconut oil, cinnamon, and salt, stirring until smooth (about 2 minutes).
4. In a large bowl, combine toasted oats, dried apples, and walnuts. Pour warm honey mixture over and stir until evenly coated.
5. Press mixture firmly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20 minutes until edges are golden. Cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars.

The toasted oats and sticky-sweet honey binder create a satisfying texture that holds together without being rock-hard—no crumbling here!

Tip: For cleaner slices, chill the bars for 30 minutes before cutting.

Caramel Dried Apple Bread Pudding

This cozy bread pudding is like a hug in a baking dish—sticky caramel, chewy dried apples, and custardy bread come together for a dessert that’s pure comfort.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups stale French bread, torn into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup dried apples, chopped
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with 1 tbsp melted butter.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, 1/4 cup caramel sauce, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
3. Add bread and dried apples to the bowl, pressing down to submerge. Let soak 15 minutes, stirring halfway.
4. Transfer mixture to the prepared dish, drizzle with remaining 1 tbsp melted butter, and bake for 40–45 minutes until puffed and golden.
5. Cool 10 minutes, then drizzle with extra caramel sauce before serving.

The magic here? The dried apples stay pleasantly chewy against the silky custard, while the caramel weaves through every bite.

Tip: For extra texture, sprinkle toasted pecans on top before baking.

Dried Apple and Cranberry Compote

This cozy compote is like autumn in a bowl—sweet-tart dried fruit simmered into a jammy spoonful of comfort, perfect for topping oatmeal, yogurt, or even roasted meats.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried apples, chopped
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine dried apples, cranberries, water, and maple syrup. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low, stir in lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt, then simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fruit is plump and the liquid thickens to a syrupy glaze.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly—the compote will continue to thicken as it sits.

The magic here? The dried apples soften into a velvety base while the cranberries pop with tangy brightness, creating a balance that’s irresistible warm or cold.

Tip: For a deeper flavor, swap half the water with apple cider.

Savory Dried Apple and Sage Stuffing

This stuffing is a cozy twist on the classic, with sweet-tart dried apples and earthy sage adding layers of flavor to every bite.

Ingredients:

• 8 cups day-old rustic bread, cubed (about 1 loaf)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup dried apples, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh sage, minced
• 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 large eggs, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast for 10 minutes until lightly crisp. Transfer to a large bowl.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and celery; cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in dried apples, sage, 1 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper; cook 2 more minutes.
3. Pour vegetable mixture over toasted bread. Drizzle with broth and beaten eggs, tossing gently until evenly moistened.
4. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake 15 more minutes until golden on top.

The dried apples plump up beautifully, adding little bursts of sweetness that balance the savory herbs—perfect for holiday tables or Sunday roasts.

Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle the top with chopped pecans before the final bake.

Dried Apple and Pecan Muffins

These cozy muffins are packed with sweet-tart dried apples and toasty pecans, perfect for a quick breakfast or afternoon snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup whole milk
• ¼ cup melted unsalted butter, cooled
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¾ cup chopped dried apples
• ½ cup chopped pecans

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners or grease lightly.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups flour, ½ cup sugar, 1 ½ tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, ½ tsp cinnamon, and ¼ tsp salt.
3. In another bowl, beat 1 egg, then stir in ½ cup milk, ¼ cup melted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla until smooth.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients, mixing just until combined (a few lumps are okay). Fold in dried apples and pecans.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups, filling each ¾ full. Bake for 18–20 minutes, until tops spring back when pressed.

The chewy apples and crunchy pecans create the best texture contrast, while cinnamon ties everything together. Tip: For extra richness, brush warm muffin tops with a little melted butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.

Overnight Dried Apple Oatmeal

This cozy, make-ahead oatmeal lets the rich flavor of dried apples shine—just soak overnight, and wake up to a warm, spiced breakfast.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup chopped dried apples
• 1 1/2 cups milk (or almond milk)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tbsp chopped walnuts (for topping)

Instructions:

1. In a jar or airtight container, combine oats, dried apples, milk, water, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well.
2. Cover and refrigerate overnight (at least 8 hours).
3. The next morning, stir the mixture and microwave for 1–2 minutes until warm, or heat gently on the stovetop for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Top with chopped walnuts and an extra drizzle of maple syrup if desired.

The dried apples plump up beautifully overnight, adding chewy sweetness to every bite—no refined sugar needed!

Tip: For extra creaminess, swap half the milk for Greek yogurt before refrigerating.

Dried Apple and Cinnamon Swirl Bread

This cozy loaf is like a hug in bread form—sweet, spiced, and packed with chewy dried apples in every swirl.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup chopped dried apples
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
3. In another bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla. Alternate mixing in dry ingredients and buttermilk until just combined.
4. Fold in dried apples. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
5. Pour half the batter into the pan. Sprinkle with half the cinnamon sugar. Repeat layers, then swirl gently with a knife.
6. Bake for 50–55 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a rack.

The magic here? The apples stay delightfully chewy against the tender crumb, while the cinnamon sugar caramelizes into ribbons.

Tip: For extra apple flavor, soak the dried apples in warm apple cider for 10 minutes before chopping!

Spiced Dried Apple Chutney

This sweet-tangy chutney is a pantry superstar—perfect for glazing roasted meats, pairing with cheese, or spooning over yogurt.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried apples, chopped
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
• 1/4 cup golden raisins
• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine dried apples, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, red onion, golden raisins, ginger, mustard seeds, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
2. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid thickens to a syrupy consistency and the apples soften but still hold their shape.
3. Remove from heat and let cool completely. The chutney will thicken further as it cools.

The mustard seeds add a subtle pop of texture, while the cloves and cinnamon give it a warm depth that’s not overly sweet. Try it with sharp cheddar or pork chops!

Tip: For a smoother texture, pulse briefly in a food processor after cooling.

Dried Apple and Almond Energy Bites

These no-bake energy bites are the perfect sweet-and-crunchy snack, packed with chewy dried apples and nutty almonds for a quick boost any time of day.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup almond butter
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/2 cup finely chopped dried apples
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp sea salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix 1 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup almond butter, and 1/3 cup honey until fully combined.
2. Fold in 1/2 cup dried apples, 1/4 cup chopped almonds, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp sea salt until evenly distributed.
3. Roll tablespoon-sized portions into balls (about 18 total), pressing firmly so they hold their shape.
4. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to set. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

The combo of tart apples and toasty almonds gives these bites a granola-bar-meets-pie vibe—without any baking required!

Tip: For extra crunch, toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes before chopping.

Homemade Dried Apple Fruit Leather

Skip the store-bought snacks—this chewy, naturally sweet fruit leather is a breeze to make with just apples and a touch of cinnamon.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups peeled, cored, and chopped apples (about 4 medium)
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 170°F (or use a dehydrator). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a saucepan, combine apples, 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring often, until the apples break down into a thick sauce.
3. Let the mixture cool slightly, then blend until smooth. Spread evenly onto the prepared sheet (about 1/4-inch thick).
4. Bake for 4–6 hours, rotating the tray halfway, until the leather is dry but still slightly tacky. Cool completely, then cut into strips.

The slow drying locks in a concentrated apple flavor with a hint of spice—perfect for lunchboxes or hiking snacks. Tip: For fun variations, swirl in a spoonful of nut butter before drying.

Dried Apple and Ginger Tea Cake

This warmly spiced tea cake is studded with chewy dried apples and a kick of ginger—perfect with your afternoon cup of tea or coffee.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ¾ cup chopped dried apples
• 2 tbsp crystallized ginger, finely chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups flour, 1 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, ½ tsp salt, 1 tsp ground ginger, and ½ tsp cinnamon.
3. In a separate bowl, beat ½ cup butter and ¾ cup sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in 1 tsp vanilla.
4. Alternately add the dry ingredients and ½ cup buttermilk to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
5. Fold in dried apples and 2 tbsp crystallized ginger. Pour batter into the prepared pan.
6. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

The chewy dried apples and zingy ginger create a cozy contrast against the tender crumb—ideal for slow weekend mornings.

Tip: For extra ginger flavor, brush the warm cake with a simple syrup made of 2 tbsp honey and 1 tsp grated fresh ginger.

Sweet and Tangy Dried Apple Relish

This vibrant relish balances chewy dried apples with a punch of vinegar and warm spices—perfect for spooning over roasted pork or sharp cheddar.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups dried apples, chopped into ¼-inch pieces
• ½ cup apple cider vinegar
• ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar
• ¼ cup water
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard seeds
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp kosher salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the dried apples, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, water, mustard seeds, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Stir to dissolve the sugar.
2. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid thickens to a syrupy glaze and the apples soften but still hold their shape.
3. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes. The relish will thicken further as it sits.

The mustard seeds add a subtle crunch, while the cloves and cinnamon deepen the autumnal sweetness—no fresh fruit required!

Tip: For a smoother texture, pulse half the relish in a food processor before serving.

Dried Apple and Raisin Rice Pilaf

This sweet and savory pilaf is a cozy twist on a classic, with tender dried fruit and warm spices mingling in every fluffy bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup dried apples, chopped
• ⅓ cup raisins
• 2 ¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground allspice
• ¾ tsp kosher salt
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a deep skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add rice, tossing to coat in the butter, and toast for 2 minutes. Stir in dried apples, raisins, chicken broth, cinnamon, allspice, and salt. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes (no peeking!). Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
4. Fluff with a fork and sprinkle with pars before serving.

The trick here? Letting the rice rest off the heat ensures the apples plump up without turning mushy, while the spices infuse every grain.

Tip: For extra crunch, toast slivered almonds with the rice in step 2.

Roasted Dried Apple and Butternut Squash Soup

This cozy soup balances the sweetness of dried apples with earthy butternut squash, finished with a hint of warming spices—perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 1/2 cup dried apple rings, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Roast the squash and apples: Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss butternut squash and dried apples with 1 tbsp olive oil on a baking sheet. Roast for 25 minutes until squash is tender and caramelized at the edges.
2. Sauté aromatics: In a large pot, heat remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Simmer: Add roasted squash, apples, vegetable broth, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Blend: Use an immersion blender to purée until smooth (or carefully transfer to a blender in batches). Stir in heavy cream if using.

The dried apples add a subtle chewiness to each velvety spoonful, making this soup feel extra special without fuss. Tip: For a lighter version, swap the cream for coconut milk or omit entirely—it’s still rich from the roasted squash!

Dried Apple and Dark Chocolate Trail Mix

This sweet-and-savory trail mix is the perfect balance of chewy, crunchy, and chocolatey—ideal for snacking on hikes or stashing in your desk drawer.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried apple rings, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chunks (or chips)
• 1/2 cup roasted salted almonds
• 1/2 cup toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of flaky sea salt

Instructions:

1. Toast the coconut flakes: In a dry skillet over medium-low heat, toast the 1/4 cup coconut flakes for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until lightly golden. Transfer to a bowl.
2. Combine: In a large bowl, mix the chopped dried apple, dark chocolate chunks, almonds, pepitas, and toasted coconut. Sprinkle with 1/2 tsp cinnamon and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Toss gently to distribute.
3. Serve or store: Enjoy immediately, or pack into an airtight container for up to 2 weeks (if the chocolate lasts that long!).

The contrast of tart apples, rich chocolate, and salty nuts makes this mix irresistibly snackable—no baking required!

Tip: For extra warmth, add a dash of cayenne pepper with the cinnamon.

Conclusion

From sweet treats to savory snacks, these 18 dried apple recipes prove just how versatile this humble ingredient can be! Whether you’re baking, cooking, or snacking, there’s something here for every home cook to love. Try a few, share your favorites in the comments, and don’t forget to pin this roundup for later—happy cooking!