Fall is the season of abundance. Apples in every color, shape, and flavor are ready to pick. In our orchard, we grow many different apple varieties, which means we can enjoy fresh apples from late July well into spring. Luckily, apples are incredibly versatile—you can preserve them in so many ways: canning, drying, juicing, and more. Perfect for filling your pantry with homemade goodies to enjoy all year round!

In this roundup, I’ll share my favorite canning recipes with apples: from crisp jelly and sweet jam to dried apple snacks, fresh juice from a steam juicer, and even ready-to-serve side dishes.

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What Kind of Apples Should You Use?

Apples come in all shapes and flavors, and the type you use can make a big difference in your recipes. Sweet apples are perfect for jam or applesauce, while tart varieties work beautifully in jellies. Mixing varieties can give your juice or sauce a more complex taste.

👉 Planning to plant your own apple tree? Go for disease-resistant varieties—they’ll reward you with a healthier harvest.

Whether you pick them from your own backyard, buy them from a local orchard, or grab some at the farmers’ market, there’s always a way to put apples to good use.

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To peel or No Peel?

Peeling apples can feel like a big job—especially when you’re processing 20+ pounds (10 kilos) at once. For some recipes it’s necessary, but sometimes you can leave the peel on.

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Apple Jam & Jelly

Apples are naturally high in pectin, which makes them ideal for jam and jelly. For jam, you often don’t even need extra pectin—just cook the apples until the mixture thickens. Apple jelly is another favorite, especially if you want to use up small or windfall apples.

Apple Jelly – A Classic

Bright, sweet-tart, and beautifully clear, apple jelly is delicious on soft cheeses like brie, spread on bread with butter, or brushed as a glaze over pastries.

👉 Get the recipe for apple jelly

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Apple Cranberry Jam – A Taste of Fall

This jam combines sweet apples with whole cranberries for a festive, textured spread. It’s perfect alongside roasted meats in the fall and winter, or on a holiday cheese board.

👉 Get the recipe for apple cranberry jam

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Drying Apples

Drying is one of the easiest ways to preserve apples. They turn into a healthy, portable snack with very little effort.

Simple Dried Apples

Just apples—nothing more. You can dry them with or without the peel, and they taste amazing either way. Perfect for snacking, road trips, or tossing into granola.

👉 Learn how to dehydrate apples at home

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Dried Apples with Honey & Cinnamon

A sweeter twist on classic dried apples. Brush apple slices with a honey-cinnamon mixture before drying, and you’ll end up with a treat that tastes almost like candy—but it’s all natural. Kids love them!

👉 Get the recipe for dried apples with honey and cinnamon

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Juice & Jelly with a Steam Juicer

If you have lots of apples, a steam juicer is a lifesaver. It lets you process big batches at once, giving you fresh apple juice and apple pulp you can use for sauce. It’s especially handy for small or windfall apples—no need to peel or core them. Just cut into chunks, load them into the juicer, and let the steam do the work.

Apple Juice (from a Steam Juicer)

Whether you use tart apples, sweet varieties, or a mix, homemade apple juice always tastes better than store-bought. Try flavoring it with a little ginger, mint, or cinnamon. In winter, we love warming it up with spices for a cozy drink.

👉 Get the recipe for homemade apple juice

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Apple Elderflower Jelly – A Summer Twist

Turn your homemade apple juice into a fragrant, floral jelly with elderflowers. It captures the essence of summer in a jar—perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself.

👉 Get the recipe for apple elderflower jelly

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Apple as a Side Dish

Apples aren’t just for sweets—they’re amazing in savory recipes too. Think roast chicken with applesauce, or pork chops with apple jelly. Homemade applesauce in particular is a pantry staple.

Homemade Applesauce

Applesauce belongs in every pantry. It’s delicious with meatballs, roast pork, or just as a simple snack. Make a big batch and can it in jars—you’ll be thankful to have it ready on busy days.

👉 Get the recipe for applesauce

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Other Apple Preserves

Apples pair beautifully with other fruits and even vegetables. These recipes not only help you use up apples, but also bring variety to your pantry.

Red Cabbage with Apple & Cranberries

This classic comfort food combines sweet cabbage with tart apples and cranberries. Can it in jars, and you’ll have a ready-to-serve side dish for cozy winter dinners.

👉 Get the recipe for red cabbage with apple and cranberries

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Canned Apple Cake

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Conclusion

Apples are one of the most versatile fruits to preserve. From jams and jellies to juice, dried snacks, and savory side dishes, there’s no end to the delicious recipes you can make. By canning, drying, or juicing, you’ll enjoy the flavors of fall all year long.

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