Calling all apple lovers! Prepare to be enchanted by the delicious world of crab apple recipes. These delightful fruits may be small in size, but they pack a punch in terms of flavor. Whether you prefer them pickled, spiced, or turned into curd, there’s a recipe here to satisfy your taste buds.
Crab Apple & Vanilla Curd

Let’s kick things off with a heavenly combination - crab apples and vanilla curd. This delectable treat is perfect for spreading on toast, scones, or even swirling into yogurt. The vibrant red color of the crab apples adds a beautiful touch to the curd and makes it visually appealing.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups crab apples, washed and stems removed
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine the crab apples, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the apples are soft and easily mashed with a fork.
- Pass the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the skins and any remaining seeds.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and vanilla extract. Slowly pour the crab apple mixture into the bowl, whisking constantly.
- Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and well incorporated.
- Transfer the curd to sterilized jars and let cool completely before sealing.
And voila! You now have a jar of heavenly crab apple and vanilla curd to enjoy at your leisure.
Old Fashioned Spiced Crab Apples

If you’re a fan of nostalgic flavors and warm spices, then this recipe is for you. These old-fashioned spiced crab apples make the perfect accompaniment to pork dishes or a lovely addition to a cheese platter.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds crab apples, washed and stems removed
- 4 cups water
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
- Using the tip of a sharp knife, prick each crab apple several times to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- In a large pot, combine the water, sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil.
- Add the crab apples to the pot and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 20 minutes or until the apples are tender.
- Using a slotted spoon, carefully transfer the crab apples to sterilized jars.
- Continue boiling the syrup in the pot until it thickens slightly.
- Pour the syrup over the crab apples, making sure to cover them completely.
- Seal the jars and let cool completely.
These spiced crab apples will add a touch of warmth and nostalgia to your dishes. One bite is like a trip down memory lane.
Spiced Pickled Crab Apples
If you’re looking for a tangy and slightly spicy twist to your crab apples, this recipe for spiced pickled crab apples is just the ticket. The combination of vinegar, sugar, and spices creates a perfect balance of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds crab apples, washed and stems removed
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons pickling salt
- 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon whole allspice berries
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, pickling salt, peppercorns, mustard seeds, allspice berries, cloves, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil.
- Add the crab apples to the pot and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the apples are tender.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the crab apples to sterilized jars.
- Strain the pickling liquid and pour it over the crab apples, making sure to cover them completely.
- Seal the jars and let cool completely.
These spiced pickled crab apples are a fantastic addition to charcuterie boards, sandwiches, or even enjoyed straight from the jar.
With these tantalizing crab apple recipes, you’ll be able to enjoy the flavors of fall all year round. Whether you’re devouring crab apple and vanilla curd on toast or savoring the warm spices of old-fashioned spiced crab apples, each bite will transport you to apple heaven. So roll up your sleeves, grab some crab apples, and get cooking!
Preparation time: varies depending on the recipe
Source of the data: The data provided is a collection of various crab apple recipes sourced from different websites and blogs.
Disclaimer: The nutrition facts, tips, and FAQs for the recipes are not provided in the data. Please refer to the original sources for additional information.