Apple Pie Salsa is a sweet, cinnamon-spiced twist on traditional salsa, made with fresh apples, brown sugar, and warm fall spices. This dessert-style dip pairs perfectly with cinnamon-sugar tortilla chips or graham crackers and is a delightful treat for parties, holidays, or cozy nights in.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe captures the comforting flavors of apple pie in a fun, snackable form. It’s simple to prepare, made with wholesome ingredients, and perfect for both kids and adults. Whether I serve it at a fall gathering or enjoy it as a midweek treat, this sweet salsa always hits the spot. It’s also a great way to use up extra apples in a creative and unexpected way.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
Apples (peeled, cored, and finely diced)
-
Lemon juice
-
Brown sugar
-
White sugar
-
Ground cinnamon
-
Ground nutmeg
-
Cornstarch
-
Water
-
Vanilla extract
Directions
-
I start by peeling, coring, and finely dicing the apples into small, salsa-like pieces.
-
In a medium saucepan, I combine the apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
-
I cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften and release their juices, about 10–12 minutes.
-
In a small bowl, I mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then add it to the apple mixture.
-
I continue to cook and stir for another 2–3 minutes until the salsa thickens.
-
I remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
-
Once it cools, I transfer the salsa to a bowl and chill it in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 2 cups of Apple Pie Salsa and serves 6–8 people as a snack or appetizer. It takes approximately 20 minutes to prepare and cook, plus 1 hour of chilling time for best flavor and texture.
Variations
I sometimes switch things up by using a mix of apple varieties for a more complex flavor, like combining tart Granny Smiths with sweet Fujis. I’ve also added finely chopped pears or a handful of raisins for extra sweetness and texture. For a spicy kick, I’ve stirred in a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeño, giving it a fun sweet-and-spicy contrast.
storage/reheating
I store leftover apple pie salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s best served cold, but if I want to warm it slightly, I heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. I always stir before serving to bring the flavors back together.
FAQs
How can I serve apple pie salsa?
I usually serve it with cinnamon-sugar tortilla chips, graham crackers, or even over pancakes or vanilla ice cream for a sweet topping.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, I like making it a day ahead. The flavors deepen after chilling, making it even better the next day.
What apples work best for this recipe?
I prefer using a combination of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith for a balanced flavor.
Can I freeze apple pie salsa?
I don’t recommend freezing it because the texture of the apples can become mushy after thawing.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Absolutely! It’s sweet, fruity, and free from any strong spices, making it a hit with kids.
Conclusion
Apple Pie Salsa is a fun and flavorful way to enjoy the classic taste of apple pie in a new form. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m serving it at a gathering or keeping it in the fridge for a sweet snack, this recipe never disappoints.
Print
Apple Pie Salsa
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes (+1 hour chilling)
- Yield: 2 cups
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Apple Pie Salsa is a sweet, cinnamon-spiced twist on traditional salsa, made with fresh apples, brown sugar, and warm fall spices. Perfect for dipping with cinnamon-sugar chips or graham crackers.
Ingredients
- 3 cups apples, peeled, cored, and finely diced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon white sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Peel, core, and finely dice the apples into small pieces.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10–12 minutes until the apples soften and release their juices.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
- Add the slurry to the apple mixture and cook for another 2–3 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Allow the mixture to cool, then transfer to a bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- Use a mix of apple varieties for deeper flavor.
- Optional add-ins include chopped pears, raisins, or a pinch of cayenne for spice.
- Best served cold but can be warmed slightly if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 2mg
- Fat: 0.2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0.3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
