Savoring Fall: The Ultimate Apple and Cheddar Soup Recipe for Seasonal Comfort

Quick Overview Section

• Recipe Rating: ★★★★★ (4.9/5 based on 120 reviews)
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: Serves 4
• Calories: 300 kcal per serving (optional)

Introduction

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold and the air starts to crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to embrace the fall season. Apple and Cheddar Soup is a delightful blend of sweet and savory that warms the soul with each spoonful. Growing up, my grandmother made this recipe every autumn, filling our home with the rich aroma of apples and cheese. This dish is not only comforting but also bursting with seasonal flavors, making it perfect for cozy gatherings or quiet nights at home. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and easily adaptable for dietary preferences.

Ingredients List

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups peeled and diced apples (about 4 medium apples)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (plus more for serving)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (optional for a vegan version)

Optional substitutions: Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth. For vegan, replace cheddar with a plant-based cheese and use coconut cream.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté Onions: Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
4. Combine Apples and Broth: Add the diced apples, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes, or until the apples are tender.
6. Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until creamy.
7. Add Cheese and Cream: Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and heavy cream (if using) until melted and combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with additional grated cheese. Enjoy your delicious seasonal dish!

Optional: Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Tips and Tricks Section

• Ingredient Alternatives: You can swap apples for pears for a different flavor profile. Experiment with spices like nutmeg for added warmth.
• Cooking Methods: For a richer flavor, try roasting the apples before adding them to the soup.
• Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave until warmed through.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Macronutrients:
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Micronutrients:
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Sugar: 10 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg

Recipe Notes

• This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for easy meals throughout the week.
• For a vegan option, replace the cheese and cream with plant-based alternatives.

FAQs

1. How do I store leftovers?

   • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

2. Can I freeze this soup?

   • Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen, adding a little broth if needed to adjust the consistency.

3. What type of apples are best for this recipe?

   • Sweet-tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best!

4. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

   • Absolutely! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then blend before serving.
5. How can I enhance the flavor?
   • Add a splash of apple cider or a pinch of cinnamon for a warm twist.

Please Give Us Your Feedback

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Recipe Card: Apple and Cheddar Soup

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Apples: 3 cups, peeled and diced
• Vegetable broth: 4 cups
• Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
• Grated sharp cheddar cheese: 1 cup (plus more for serving)
• Heavy cream or coconut cream: 1/2 cup (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large pot.
2. Sauté onions until translucent.
3. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
4. Combine apples and broth, then bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Blend the soup until smooth.
7. Stir in cheese and cream until melted.
8. Serve with additional cheese on top.

Tips and Variations:

Feel free to mix in other seasonal vegetables like carrots for added nutritional value.

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

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