Recipe: Apple Cream with Cloves

Recipe: Apple Cream with Cloves

Apple cream with cloves is a rich and velvety dessert that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the warming and aromatic spice of cloves. The smooth texture of the apple cream is perfectly complemented by the slight spice of cloves, making this dessert a comforting treat perfect for the fall and winter months.

This recipe is easy to make, yet it offers a complex flavor profile that is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your sweet cravings. Whether served as a standalone dessert or paired with a slice of cake, apple cream with cloves is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of autumn in every spoonful.

Ingredients

• 2 large apples (peeled, cored, and chopped)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or honey for a healthier alternative)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon butter
• A pinch of salt
• Optional garnish: cinnamon stick and apple slices

Equipment:

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Blender or immersion blender
• Serving bowls or cups

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

1. Peel, Core, and Chop the Apples
   Start by peeling and coring the apples. Then, chop them into small chunks to help them cook faster and release their natural sweetness.

2. Cook the Apples
   Place the chopped apples in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of butter and cook the apples for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The apples should begin to soften and release their juices.

Step 2: Make the Cream Mixture

1. Add the Cream and Milk
   Once the apples are softened, add the heavy cream and milk to the saucepan. Stir the mixture to combine. Let the apples and cream simmer together for about 5 minutes, allowing the apples to fully break down and absorb the cream.

2. Add Sugar, Spices, and Vanilla
   Stir in the granulated sugar (or honey), ground cloves, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Continue to simmer the mixture for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture becomes fragrant and thickens slightly.

3. Blend the Mixture
   Once the apples are fully soft and the cream mixture is well combined, use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a regular blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend the mixture less, leaving some small pieces of apple for texture.

Step 3: Chill the Apple Cream

1. Cool the Cream
   After blending, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the apple cream cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the cream to a bowl or jar and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours to chill and firm up.

2. Optional Garnishing
   For a decorative touch, you can garnish the apple cream with a cinnamon stick or a few thin apple slices. This adds a visually appealing element to your dessert while enhancing its flavor.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the Apple Cream
   Once the apple cream has chilled and thickened, it is ready to serve. Spoon it into small bowls or glasses and enjoy as a dessert on its own or with a slice of cake, pie, or as a topping for oatmeal.

2. Store Leftovers
   Store any leftover apple cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, making it versatile and easy to serve at any time.

Tips and Variations

1. Make It Vegan
   For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or almond milk. You can also use a plant-based butter substitute. Maple syrup can replace the sugar for a vegan-friendly sweetener.

2. Add Other Spices
   While cloves and cinnamon provide a warming flavor, you can experiment with adding other spices like nutmeg or ginger for added depth. These spices work wonderfully with apples and add an extra layer of complexity to the dessert.

3. Sweeten to Taste
   Depending on your preference, adjust the sweetness level by adding more or less sugar. Honey or agave syrup are great alternatives to granulated sugar and add a different flavor profile.

4. Incorporate Nuts or Dried Fruit
   For a bit of texture, consider adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried fruit such as raisins or cranberries to the apple cream mixture before serving.

Health Benefits

1. Apples
   Apples are a great source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. They help with digestion and support immune health, making them a healthy addition to any dessert.

2. Cloves
   Cloves are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and contain antioxidants that support overall health. They can help with digestion and boost immunity.

3. Cinnamon
   Cinnamon is packed with antioxidants and can help regulate blood sugar levels. It’s also known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to reduce the risk of heart disease.

Conclusion

Apple cream with cloves is a delightful dessert that brings together the sweetness of apples with the warmth of cloves and cinnamon. This creamy, velvety treat is perfect for any season, but especially for fall and winter when the flavors of apple and spice are most comforting. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering or as an everyday treat, this apple cream is sure to impress. Try this recipe today and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors in every spoonful!