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–+ servings
Apple Pickles
Apple Pickles are a sweet-and-sour preserved apple dish with a spicy twist, popular in Southern and Midwestern kitchens. Infused with cinnamon sticks and whole cloves, the apples soak in a tangy vinegar-sugar syrup, turning soft and translucent. Traditionally served as a side at Thanksgiving or Christmas, they bring a bright, flavorful contrast to rich and savory meals. With their unique blend of tart, sweet, and spice, apple pickles offer a nostalgic nod to the days of home canning and autumn harvests.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 210 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups sugar
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup vinegar
  • 2 sticks cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp whole cloves
  • 6-8 apples (medium, peeled and cored)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Make the Syrup

  • Combine sugar, water, vinegar, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves in a large pot.
  • Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve sugar.

Step 2: Prepare Apples

  • Peel and core apples. Slice into rings or chunks, as preferred.

Step 3: Cook Apples

  • Gently add apples to boiling syrup.
  • Simmer until apples become soft and slightly transparent (about 20–30 minutes).

Step 4: Preserve

  • Pack hot apples into sterilized jars.
  • Pour hot syrup over apples, leaving ½ inch headspace.
  • Seal with sterilized lids and process in boiling water bath for 10 minutes.

Tips

  • Use firm apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Jonathan so they hold shape.
  • Add a few slices of fresh ginger for a spicier, warming pickle.
  • Add whole allspice or star anise for deeper holiday flavor.
  • Replace some water with apple cider for a richer apple taste.
  • Slice apples instead of leaving them whole to reduce cooking time.
  • Add a few drops of red food coloring for a retro look common in old-fashioned apple pickles.
  • Use cinnamon sticks broken in half for stronger flavor.
  • Serve with pork dishes, on charcuterie boards, or over oatmeal.
  • For crisper apples, simmer only 30 to 40 minutes instead of an hour.

Nutrition

Calories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 55gSodium: 5mgPotassium: 95mgFiber: 2gSugar: 53gVitamin A: 60IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 0.2mg
Keyword comfort season, heirloom, holiday recipe, homemade preserves, old fashioned, pickled apples, vintage recipe
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