Thanksgiving and apples go hand in hand, and while apple pie is a classic, there are countless other ways to showcase apples this holiday. Below is a curated collection of ten favorite apple recipes—covering drinks, starters, salads, soups, and desserts—to help you plan a flavorful, apple-forward Thanksgiving menu.
For a festive start, try a cocktail: the Improved Maple Leaf Cocktail adds warm maple notes that pair beautifully with crisp apple flavors.
Begin your savory course with a simple appetizer—Ina’s Apple Chutney served on toasts spread with goat cheese makes a bright, tangy bite that guests will love.
To lighten the table, this Indian Apple, Tomato, and Radish Salad offers a crisp, tart contrast to richer dishes and brings fresh, vibrant flavors to the plate.
Another refreshing option is the Celery, Green Apple, and Walnut Salad—miso in the dressing adds an unexpected umami depth that enhances the apples and walnuts.
For an elegant first course, serve Butternut Squash Rounds topped with a Hazelnut-Apple Gremolata. The gremolata brings crunch and bright apple notes that complement the sweet squash.
If you prefer a cozy starter, a small bowl of Apple, Corn, and Butternut Squash Soup with Curry is soothing and aromatic—an excellent way to warm up guests before the main course.
For dessert, Apple Crisp-Stuffed Apples are both elegant and simple: hollowed apples filled with a cinnamon-oat crisp make an attractive individual dessert.
If oven space is limited, consider No-Bake Gluten-Free Vegan Apple Crumb Bars. They’re convenient to prepare ahead and offer a satisfying crumble without heating the kitchen.
For a homier dessert, Whole Wheat Apple Brown Betty is humble but delicious—especially when served warm with a scoop of vanilla frozen yogurt or ice cream.
When you want something buttery and fruit-forward without the fuss of a pie crust, try a Hazelnut Apple Pear Crisp. The combination of hazelnuts and tender fruit creates a delightful textural contrast.
These apple-centered dishes provide a range of flavors and textures—from bright salads and savory starters to comforting soups and irresistible desserts—so you can build a Thanksgiving menu that celebrates the season. Happy Thanksgiving! xo