Sweet, spiced, and endlessly versatile, this easy apple compote comes together in just 15 minutes. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a quick snack!
Apple compote is one of those recipes I find myself making over and over again.
It's simple, packed with natural sweetness, and has a cozy warmth from cinnamon and vanilla.
If you've never made it before, you'll be surprised by how easy it is. It's basically just simmering apples with a bit of sugar and spice until they soften into a spoonable, fragrant topping.
The beauty of apple compote is its versatility. You can serve it warm over pancakes, mix it into yogurt, or spoon it onto oatmeal for an instant flavor upgrade.
It also pairs beautifully with ice cream, pancakes, cheese boards, or even tucked into pastries. And if you're anything like me, you'll end up sneaking bites straight from the pot.
What I love most is how adaptable this recipe is. Use whatever apples you have on hand: sweet, tart, or a mix. Adjust the sugar to your preference. Make it chunky or smooth.
However you go about it, you'll end up with something delicious that makes the house smell incredible.
Love fruit compote recipes? Be sure to also try Raisin Compote, Grape Compote, Strawberry Compote or Frozen Berry Compote!
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy - Just 15 minutes and one pot.
- Minimal ingredients - You probably have everything on hand.
- Versatile - Works with sweet or tart apples, and you can tweak the sweetness.
- Great for meal prep - Make a batch and enjoy it all week.
- Naturally sweetened option - Use honey or maple syrup if you prefer.
- Seasonal but not limited to fall - Apples are available year-round.
- Kid-friendly - No complicated flavors, just warm, comforting apple goodness.
Compote
Apple compote is a staple in many European and North American kitchens, especially in French and German cuisine, where it's served alongside meats, pastries, or as a simple dessert.
The word "compote" comes from the French term for "mixture," and the dish has been made for centuries as a way to preserve fruit.
Unlike jam, compote isn't heavily sweetened or cooked down, keeping the fresh taste of the fruit intact.
Other names for this dish include stewed apples, applesauce, spiced apples, or fruit compote. However you call it, one thing is certain-it's a simple, satisfying recipe that's always worth making.
Ingredients
- Apples - Any variety works. Tart ones (Granny Smith, Pink Lady) give a more complex flavor, while sweeter apples (Fuji, Gala) make a naturally sweeter compote.
- Sugar - Brown sugar adds a hint of caramel, while white sugar keeps things simple. You can also use maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar, or omit the sweetener entirely.
- Water - Helps soften the apples. Apple juice or cider adds extra flavor.
- Cinnamon - A must for warmth and depth. Feel free to add nutmeg, cardamom, or cloves for variation. Optional.
- Vanilla extract - Rounds out the flavor. Optional.
See the recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Follow this step-by-step photo tutorial, then scroll down to the recipe card for the full ingredients list and method.
Peel, core, and chop the apples into small chunks.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine apples, sugar, cinnamon, and water.
Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft. If you prefer a smoother texture, mash the apples slightly.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Variations
- Maple Apple Compote - Swap sugar for maple syrup.
- Spiced Apple Compote - Add nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom.
- Boozy Apple Compote - Stir in a splash of bourbon or rum.
- Cranberry Apple Compote - Add fresh or dried cranberries.
- Orange Zest Apple Compote - A touch of citrus brightens the flavor.
- Apple & Pear Compote - Use half apples, half pears.
- Sugar-Free Apple Compote - Skip the sugar or use a natural alternative.
- Nutty Apple Compote - Stir in toasted pecans or almonds.
- Apple-Ginger Compote - Fresh grated ginger adds a warm kick.
- Chunky or Smooth - Mash it for a smoother texture, or leave it chunky.
Serving Suggestions
- On pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
- Mixed into oatmeal or yogurt.
- As a topping for ice cream.
- Spooned over cheesecake or pound cake.
- Layered in a parfait.
- Stuffed into crepes.
- Used as a filling for hand pies or turnovers.
- Spread on toast.
- On Whipped Cottage Cheese with Fruit.
Storage
Refrigerate - Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freeze - Freeze in small portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Reheat - Warm it in a saucepan or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
Make-Ahead - This gets better as it sits, so making it a day in advance is a great option.
Apple Recipes
Top tips
- Use a mix of apples for the best balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Don't overcook it unless you want applesauce. Keep an eye on the texture.
- Adjust sweetness to your taste-start with less and add more as needed.
- Mash or leave chunky depending on how you like it.
- Add a pinch of salt to bring out the flavors.
FAQs
Compote is chunkier and often has added spices. Applesauce is smoother and cooked longer.
Yes! Just cook them straight from frozen, adding a bit less water.
Compote Recipes
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📖 Recipe
Apple Compote
Ingredients
- 3 apples any variety, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 2 tablespoons sugar brown or white, adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup water
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Peel, core, and chop the apples into small chunks.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine apples, sugar, cinnamon, and water.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft. If you prefer a smoother texture, mash the apples slightly.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
Nutrition
The nutritional information provided is approximate and can vary depending on several factors, so is not guaranteed to be accurate. Please see a registered dietician for special diet advice.
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