20 Amazing Golden Delicious Apple Recipes Perfect for Fall

Fall is here, and that means one thing—it’s Golden Delicious apple season! These sweet, crisp gems are perfect for everything from cozy desserts to hearty dinners. Whether you’re craving a warm pie, a savory skillet dish, or a quick snack, we’ve rounded up 20 irresistible recipes that celebrate this versatile fruit. Get ready to fall in love with apples all over again—let’s dive in!

Golden Delicious Apple Pie with Cinnamon Streusel

This cozy apple pie gets an extra layer of love with a buttery cinnamon streusel topping—perfect for turning a simple dessert into something special.

Ingredients

• 1 store-bought or homemade pie crust (9-inch)
• 5 cups peeled, thinly sliced Golden Delicious apples (about 4 medium apples)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for streusel)
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (for streusel)
• 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed (for streusel)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (for streusel)

Instructions

1. Prep: Preheat oven to 375°F. Fit pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish; crimp edges.
2. Fill: In a large bowl, toss apples with 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 tbsp flour, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Pour into crust.
3. Streusel: In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 tsp cinnamon. Cut in cold butter with a fork until crumbly. Sprinkle over apples.
4. Bake: Place pie on a baking sheet (to catch drips). Bake 45–50 minutes until streusel is golden and filling bubbles at edges. Cool 1 hour before slicing.

The streusel adds a crave-worthy crunch that plays so nicely with the tender, lightly spiced apples—no need for a top crust!

Tip: For extra flavor, let the sugared apples sit 15 minutes before filling the crust—they’ll release just enough juice to keep the pie luscious.

Caramelized Golden Delicious Apple Tart

This buttery, flaky tart lets the natural sweetness of Golden Delicious apples shine—with just enough caramelized edges to make it irresistible.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 3 large Golden Delicious apples, thinly sliced (1/8-inch thick)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp apricot jam (optional, for glaze)

Instructions

1. Prep: Preheat oven to 400°F. Unfold puff pastry onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and prick all over with a fork.
2. Toss apples: In a bowl, combine apple slices, 1/4 cup sugar, 2 tbsp melted butter, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp salt. Toss gently to coat.
3. Arrange: Fan apple slices in overlapping rows on the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border. Fold edges over slightly.
4. Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until pastry is golden and apples are tender with caramelized edges.
5. Glaze (optional): Warm 1 tbsp apricot jam with 1 tsp water; brush over apples for shine.

The magic here? Golden Delicious apples soften perfectly without turning mushy, and their honey-like flavor deepens as they bake. A scoop of vanilla ice cream turns this into instant celebration mode.

Tip: For extra crispness, sprinkle the pastry border with coarse sugar before baking.

Golden Delicious Apple and Walnut Salad

This crisp, sweet-and-savory salad is a breeze to toss together, with juicy apples, toasty walnuts, and a tangy honey-mustard dressing that ties it all together.

Ingredients:

• 2 large Golden Delicious apples, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
• 4 cups mixed baby greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a small dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Add the mixed greens, apple slices, and toasted walnuts to the bowl. Toss gently to coat everything in the dressing.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top just before serving.

The contrast of crunchy walnuts, creamy feta, and crisp apples makes every bite exciting—plus, the dressing doubles as a quick marinade for grilled chicken if you want to bulk it up!

Tip: For extra freshness, squeeze a little lemon juice over the apple slices while prepping to keep them from browning.

Spiced Golden Delicious Apple Butter

This slow-cooked apple butter is like autumn in a jar—warmly spiced, velvety smooth, and just sweet enough to let the apples shine.

Ingredients:

• 4 lbs Golden Delicious apples, peeled, cored, and roughly chopped
• 1 cup apple cider
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt

Instructions:

1. In a large Dutch oven, combine apples and apple cider. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce to low, cover, and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples collapse.
2. Stir in 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ginger, 1/4 tsp cloves, and 1/4 tsp salt. Use a potato masher to break down any large chunks.
3. Uncover and simmer on low for 1.5–2 hours, stirring every 20 minutes, until thickened and deep amber (it should mound slightly on a spoon). For extra smoothness, blend with an immersion blender.

The magic here? Golden Delicious apples break down into a buttery texture naturally, while the cider adds a subtle tang that balances the warm spices.

Tip: For a deeper flavor, let the mixture cool overnight in the fridge before reheating and canning—the spices meld beautifully!

Golden Delicious Apple Crisp with Oat Topping

This cozy apple crisp lets the natural sweetness of Golden Delicious apples shine, with a buttery oat topping that crisps up perfectly in the oven.

Ingredients

• 4 large Golden Delicious apples, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 6 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cubed

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Toss apples with 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp vanilla in a 9-inch pie dish.
2. In a bowl, combine 1 cup oats, 1/2 cup flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1/4 tsp salt. Cut in 6 tbsp butter with a pastry cutter or fingers until crumbly.
3. Sprinkle topping evenly over apples. Bake for 35-40 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.

The magic here? Golden Delicious apples soften just enough without turning mushy, while the oat topping stays irresistibly crisp—even after leftovers cool.

Tip: For extra crunch, swap 1/4 cup oats with chopped pecans in the topping.

Golden Delicious Apple and Cheddar Grilled Cheese

Sweet, crisp apples and sharp cheddar come together in this grown-up grilled cheese that’s equal parts cozy and sophisticated.

Ingredients:

• 2 slices sourdough bread
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 Golden Delicious apple, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp honey
• 1/8 tsp cracked black pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Spread butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
2. Place one slice, buttered-side down, in the skillet. Layer with shredded cheddar, apple slices, honey, and black pepper. Top with the second bread slice, buttered-side up.
3. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden and the cheese melts.

The honey caramelizes slightly against the apples, creating a sweet-savory balance that’ll make this your new favorite grilled cheese hack.

Tip: For extra crunch, swap sourdough for a seeded multigrain bread.

Golden Delicious Apple Pancakes with Maple Syrup

Fluffy, spiced pancakes studded with tender apple bits and drizzled with warm maple syrup—this is the cozy breakfast you’ll want to make on repeat.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• 1 ¼ cups whole milk
• 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter, plus extra for cooking
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 Golden Delicious apple, peeled and finely diced (about 1 cup)
• Maple syrup, for serving

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
2. In another bowl, beat the egg, then stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix until just combined (a few lumps are fine). Fold in the diced apple.
3. Heat a griddle or skillet over medium-low heat and brush with butter. Pour ¼ cup batter per pancake and cook for 2–3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden.
4. Serve warm with a generous drizzle of maple syrup.

The secret here? The apples soften just enough while cooking, adding little pockets of sweetness to every bite.

Tip: Keep pancakes warm in a 200°F oven while you finish the batch—they’ll stay perfectly fluffy.

Golden Delicious Apple and Pork Loin Roast

Golden Delicious Apple and Pork Loin Roast

This sweet-savory roast pairs juicy pork with caramelized apples for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that feels fancy without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 (3 lb) boneless pork loin roast
• 2 large Golden Delicious apples, cored and sliced into ½-inch wedges
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup apple cider

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high. Sear pork loin on all sides until golden, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
2. Add remaining 2 tbsp olive oil to the skillet. Sauté onions for 3 minutes, then add apples, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook 2 more minutes until slightly softened.
3. Nestle pork loin into the apple mixture. Pour apple cider around the edges. Roast uncovered for 45–50 minutes, basting halfway, until pork reaches 145°F internally.
4. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with pan juices and tender apples spooned over the top.

The apples melt into a jammy glaze while keeping the pork incredibly moist—no dry meat here!

Tip: For extra depth, deglaze the skillet with 1 tbsp bourbon before adding the cider.

Golden Delicious Apple and Cranberry Stuffed Chicken

This elegant yet easy stuffed chicken combines sweet-tart apples and cranberries with savory herbs for a dish that feels fancy without the fuss.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 1 cup finely diced Golden Delicious apple
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. In a bowl, mix apple, cranberries, panko, butter, thyme, 1/4 tsp salt, and pepper until combined.
2. Cut a horizontal pocket into each chicken breast, leaving edges intact. Stuff evenly with apple mixture, securing with toothpicks if needed.
3. Heat olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken 3 minutes per side until golden. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 tsp salt.
4. Transfer skillet to oven; bake 15-18 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internally. Rest 5 minutes before serving.

The juicy apple stuffing caramelizes slightly in the pan, creating little bursts of flavor in every bite. A showstopper that’s secretly simple!

Tip: For extra crispness, broil the stuffed chicken for the last 2 minutes of baking.

Golden Delicious Apple and Almond Cake

This tender, nutty cake lets sweet apples shine, with a moist crumb and just the right amount of crunch from toasted almonds.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup almond flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 Golden Delicious apples, peeled and diced (about 2 cups)
• ⅓ cup sliced almonds, toasted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
3. In another bowl, beat sugar and eggs until pale and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Stir in melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Gently stir in diced apples.
5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle toasted almonds evenly over the batter.
6. Bake for 40–45 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

The almond flour keeps this cake irresistibly tender, while the apples stay juicy—no dry bites here! Serve slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream.

Tip: For extra flavor, toss the apples with 1 tbsp brown sugar and ½ tsp cinnamon before folding them into the batter.

Golden Delicious Apple and Sweet Potato Mash

This cozy mash-up blends the natural sweetness of apples and sweet potatoes into a silky, comforting side that’s just as good with weeknight roast chicken as it is on your holiday table.

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs), peeled and cubed
• 2 Golden Delicious apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 cup whole milk or heavy cream

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, cover the sweet potatoes and apples with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 12–15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
2. Return the pot to low heat and add the butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until the butter melts.
3. Add the drained sweet potatoes and apples back to the pot, then mash with a potato masher or fork until mostly smooth. Pour in the milk and stir until creamy (for extra silkiness, blend briefly with an immersion blender).
4. Taste and adjust salt or maple syrup if needed. Serve warm.

The magic here? The apples dissolve into the sweet potatoes, adding a subtle fruity brightness that keeps the mash from feeling too heavy.

Tip: For a caramelized twist, swap the maple syrup for 2 tbsp brown sugar and sauté the apples in 1 tbsp butter until golden before boiling.

Golden Delicious Apple and Bacon Quiche

Sweet-tart apples and smoky bacon come together in this cozy quiche, balancing rich custard with a flaky, buttery crust.

Ingredients:

• 1 refrigerated pie crust (9-inch)
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1 medium Golden Delicious apple, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Fit pie crust into a 9-inch tart pan or pie dish, crimping edges. Prick bottom with a fork, then blind bake for 10 minutes. Remove and cool slightly.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crisp, about 5 minutes. Drain on paper towels, reserving 1 tbsp drippings in the pan.
3. Sauté apple slices in reserved bacon drippings for 2 minutes until just softened. Arrange apples and bacon in the crust, then sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
4. Whisk eggs, heavy cream, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper, and 1/8 tsp nutmeg until smooth. Pour over filling.
5. Bake at 375°F for 30–35 minutes until the center is set and top is lightly golden. Cool 10 minutes before slicing.

The magic here? The apples soften but keep a whisper of crunch, while the bacon adds a salty contrast to the creamy custard—elevating brunch or dinner with minimal effort.

Tip: For extra depth, swap half the cheddar for Gruyère, or add a drizzle of maple syrup before serving.

Golden Delicious Apple and Pear Crumble

This cozy crumble lets sweet apples and juicy pears shine under a buttery, cinnamon-kissed topping—perfect for lazy weekend baking.

Ingredients:

• 2 large Golden Delicious apples, peeled and diced
• 2 ripe pears, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 6 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cubed

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Toss apples, pears, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and 1/2 tsp cinnamon in a 9-inch pie dish.
2. In a bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and remaining 1/2 tsp cinnamon. Cut in butter with a fork until crumbly.
3. Sprinkle topping over fruit. Bake for 35–40 minutes until bubbly and golden.

The magic here? Golden Delicious apples hold their shape while melting into a jammy layer beneath that crisp, oat-studded crust.

Tip: For extra crunch, add 1/4 cup chopped walnuts to the topping.

Golden Delicious Apple and Brie Crostini

These Golden Delicious Apple and Brie Crostini are the perfect blend of sweet, creamy, and crunchy—ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself to a fancy snack.

• 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds (about 12 slices)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large Golden Delicious apple, thinly sliced (about 12 slices)
• 4 oz Brie cheese, rind removed and sliced into 12 pieces
• 2 tbsp honey
• ¼ tsp flaky sea salt
• ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with 1 tbsp olive oil. Bake for 8–10 minutes until crisp and golden.
2. Top each crostini with a slice of Brie and return to the oven for 2–3 minutes until the cheese just begins to melt.
3. Layer a slice of apple on each crostini, then drizzle with remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp honey. Sprinkle with ¼ tsp flaky sea salt and ¼ tsp black pepper.
4. Serve immediately while the Brie is still warm and gooey.

The contrast of crisp bread, creamy Brie, and juicy apple makes every bite irresistible. The honey adds just the right touch of sweetness without overpowering the savory notes.

Tip: For extra crunch, toast the baguette slices a day ahead and store in an airtight container—just rewarm slightly before assembling.

Golden Delicious Apple and Cinnamon Smoothie

This creamy, spiced smoothie tastes like apple pie in a glass—minus the guilt! Perfect for a quick breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Ingredients:

• 1 large Golden Delicious apple, cored and chopped (peel left on)
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp honey
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Add the chopped apple, almond milk, Greek yogurt, honey, cinnamon, and vanilla extract to a blender. Blend on high until completely smooth, about 30 seconds.
2. Add the ice cubes and blend again until thick and frothy, 15–20 seconds more. Taste and adjust honey or cinnamon if desired.
3. Pour into a tall glass and enjoy immediately.

The natural sweetness of Golden Delicious apples means you can skip refined sugar, while the cinnamon adds a cozy warmth that lingers in every sip.

Tip: For extra creaminess, freeze the chopped apple overnight and blend straight from the freezer—no ice needed!

Golden Delicious Apple and Rosemary Focaccia

This Golden Delicious Apple and Rosemary Focaccia is a sweet-savory showstopper—think caramelized apples, fragrant rosemary, and a fluffy, olive oil-rich crust.

• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tbsp honey
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus 2 tbsp for drizzling
• 1 large Golden Delicious apple, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary leaves
• 1 tbsp turbinado sugar
• ½ tsp flaky sea salt

1. In a bowl, whisk together warm water, yeast, and honey. Let sit until foamy, 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, kosher salt, and ¼ cup olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, 1 hour.
3. Press dough into a greased 9×13-inch baking sheet. Dimple the surface with your fingers, then arrange apple slices on top. Sprinkle with rosemary, turbinado sugar, and flaky salt. Drizzle with remaining 2 tbsp olive oil.
4. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes until golden and puffed. Cool slightly before slicing.

The magic here? The apples soften into jammy pockets while the rosemary infuses the crust with earthy warmth—no fancy techniques required.

Tip: For extra crispness, place a baking sheet on the oven’s bottom rack while preheating, then bake the focaccia directly on it.

Golden Delicious Apple and Gingerbread Muffins

These warmly spiced muffins pair sweet-tart apples with cozy gingerbread flavors—perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 ½ tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup molasses
• ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
• ¼ cup melted butter, cooled
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup hot water
• 1 cup peeled, finely diced Golden Delicious apple

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners or grease lightly.
2. Whisk together 1 ½ cups flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 1 ½ tsp ginger, 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp cloves, and ¼ tsp salt in a large bowl.
3. In another bowl, mix ½ cup molasses, ⅓ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup melted butter, and 1 egg until smooth. Stir in ½ cup hot water.
4. Fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined, then gently fold in 1 cup diced apple.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups (about ¾ full). Bake for 18–20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

The molasses keeps these muffins irresistibly moist, while the fresh apple adds little bursts of brightness against the deep spice.

Tip: For extra gingerbread punch, sprinkle turbinado sugar on top before baking for a sparkly crunch.

Golden Delicious Apple and Pecan Stuffing

This Golden Delicious Apple and Pecan Stuffing is a sweet-savory showstopper, with tender apples and toasty pecans adding cozy depth to every bite.

• 8 cups day-old sourdough bread, cubed (1-inch pieces)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 Golden Delicious apples, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast for 10 minutes until lightly crisp.
2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, apples, and celery; cook for 8 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, pecans, sage, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Transfer toasted bread to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour apple mixture overtop, then drizzle with broth, tossing gently to combine.
4. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake 15 more minutes until golden and crisp at the edges.

The pecans add a buttery crunch that plays perfectly against the soft, caramelized apples—no one will guess how simple it is to make!

Tip: For extra richness, swap 1/2 cup broth for apple cider.

Golden Delicious Apple and Honey Glazed Ham

This sweet-and-savory glazed ham is a showstopper, with juicy apples and sticky honey caramelizing into a glossy, golden crust.

Ingredients:

• 1 (8–10 lb) fully cooked bone-in ham
• 2 large Golden Delicious apples, cored and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham in a roasting pan, fat-side up. Score the surface in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife.
2. In a bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup honey, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp cloves until smooth.
3. Arrange apple slices over the ham, tucking some into the scored cuts. Brush half the glaze evenly over the ham and apples.
4. Bake, uncovered, for 1.5 hours, basting with remaining glaze every 30 minutes until deeply caramelized and internal temperature reaches 140°F.
5. Let rest 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with pan juices and softened apples.

The magic here? The apples soften into jammy ribbons while their sugars mingle with the smoky ham—no fancy techniques required.

Tip: For extra shine, broil the ham for 2–3 minutes at the end, watching closely to prevent burning.

Golden Delicious Apple and Carrot Soup

This silky-smooth soup balances the natural sweetness of apples and carrots with a touch of warm spice—perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 Golden Delicious apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
2. Add chopped carrots and apples, stirring to coat. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in 4 cups vegetable broth, then stir in 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 20 minutes until carrots are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to purée until smooth (or carefully transfer to a blender in batches). Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream (if using) and warm through.

The secret here? Golden Delicious apples melt into a velvety texture, while the cinnamon and nutmeg add just enough warmth without overpowering.

Tip: For extra richness, drizzle with a swirl of cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.

Conclusion

With so many delicious ways to enjoy Golden Delicious apples this fall, there’s something here for every home cook! Whether you’re baking, sipping, or savoring, these recipes are sure to delight. Don’t forget to try your favorites, leave a comment below, and share the love on Pinterest. Happy cooking!