As the leaves begin to paint the ground with their vibrant hues, I find myself longing for cozy evenings enveloped in warmth and comfort. It was during one such chilly afternoon that I decided to blend the sweetness of roasted apples with the sharp richness of aged white cheddar—creating an unforgettable soup that has become my go-to fall recipe. Think of the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen, mingling notes of apple cider and fragrant thyme, all coming together in a velvety bowl of goodness.
Not only is this Roasted Apple and Aged White Cheddar Soup simple to whip up, but it also offers endless variations to suit your palate. Whether you’re savoring it with crispy bacon or enjoying it vegetarian-style, this soul-soothing dish promises to charm both your taste buds and those of your loved ones. Perfect for a quiet dinner or as a starter for special gatherings, it’s a delightful reminder that homemade food can truly transform any day. So grab those apples and let’s get started on a bowl of autumn bliss!
Why is Roasted Apple and Aged White Cheddar Soup a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its best: This recipe is straightforward, requiring only basic cooking skills to create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
Rich, savory flavor: The combination of roasted apples and aged white cheddar brings an incredible depth to this soup that’s nothing short of delightful.
Versatile options: You can easily customize the soup; add crispy bacon for a burst of flavor, or enjoy it vegetarian by skipping the meat.
Perfect for gatherings: This comforting soup is bound to impress guests while being easy to prepare in larger batches.
Crowd favorite: The unique flavor profile appeals to both adults and children, making it a surefire hit at family dinners.
Wholesome and nutritious: Packed with seasonal ingredients, this soup makes for a hearty meal that satisfies both the palate and the soul!
Roasted Apple and Aged White Cheddar Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Apples – Use a mix of sweet (like Honeycrisp) and tart (like Granny Smith) apples for depth of flavor.
• Oil – Olive oil or butter can be used for roasting the apples and sautéing the onions.
• Onion – Opt for yellow or white onions for the best sweetness and depth when sautéed.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic is preferable to enhance aroma; garlic powder can be used if needed.
• Thyme – Fresh thyme complements the apple flavor beautifully; use dried thyme in half the quantity.
• Broth (Chicken, Vegetable, or Ham) – Choose based on dietary preferences; ham broth adds a savory depth.
• Apple Cider or Apple Juice – Ensure it’s unsweetened to balance sweetness and acidity.
For the Creaminess
• Milk or Cream – Adds a luxurious creaminess to your soup; substitute with non-dairy options if desired.
• Aged White Cheddar – This sharp, nutty cheese provides richness; other sharp cheeses can be used but will alter the taste.
For the Flavor
• Grainy Dijon Mustard – Adds tanginess and depth; yellow mustard can be used for a milder flavor.
• Salt and Pepper – Season to taste to enhance all the wonderful flavors in your Roasted Apple and Aged White Cheddar Soup.
Feel free to get creative with this comforting soup!
How to Make Roasted Apple and Aged White Cheddar Soup
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Roast Apples: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the apples with some oil, salt, and pepper in a baking dish. Roast them until lightly golden, about 20-30 minutes, instilling a beautiful caramel flavor.
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large saucepan, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Then, stir in the chopped garlic and thyme, cooking for just 1 minute until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the roasted apples into the saucepan along with your choice of broth and apple cider. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld.
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Finish Soup: Mix in the milk, aged white cheddar, and grainy Dijon mustard into the soup. Stir until the cheese has melted beautifully and the mixture is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting it to your liking.
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Purée: Blend the soup until it’s smoothly combined, using an immersion blender or working in batches with a food processor. You’ll want it velvety and inviting!
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh thyme on top for an added touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Roasted Apple and Aged White Cheddar Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with this comforting soup and make it your own!
- Bacon Boost: Add cooked and crumbled bacon for an extra layer of savory depth that’ll make the soup irresistibly rich.
- Apple Swap: Try using different apple varieties in season. Sweet or tart selections can give a unique twist to the flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños for a hint of heat, balancing the sweetness of the apples with a zesty surprise.
- Herb Twist: Add fresh rosemary or sage instead of thyme for an aromatic variation that infuses a different herbal note.
- Nutty Addition: Stir in roasted hazelnuts or walnuts for added texture, elevating the creaminess with a delightful crunch.
- Vegan Option: Substitute milk and cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a deliciously creamy vegan version without sacrificing flavor.
- Maple Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of pure maple syrup for an unexpected sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cheddar.
- Cheese Change: Swap out the aged white cheddar for gouda or fontina for a different creamy texture and flavor profile in your soup.
What to Serve with Roasted Apple and Aged White Cheddar Soup?
Creating the perfect dining experience around this comforting soup will elevate your meal to new heights.
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Crusty Bread: The ideal accompaniment, crusty bread allows you to soak up every last drop of that velvety soup. Try sourdough for a tangy twist!
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Mixed Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette nicely balances the creamy richness of the soup. Flavors like apple cider dressing tie everything together beautifully.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: An all-time classic, a gooey grilled cheese with aged cheddar complements the soup’s sharpness while adding a delightful crunch. Pair with some caramelized onions for a gourmet touch!
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Apple-Crisp Topping: For a dessert option, try a baked apple crisp with oat topping. It echoes the cozy apple flavors and closes the meal on a sweet note.
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Sparkling Cider: An effervescent sparkling cider enhances the flavors, offering a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup. The apple notes in cider create a harmonious pairing.
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Candied Bacon Strips: If you enjoy a savory-sweet moment, crispy candied bacon pieces can be served on the side for those looking to indulge!
These pairings will take your Roasted Apple and Aged White Cheddar Soup from a simple dish to an unforgettable meal that warms your heart and tickles your taste buds!
How to Store and Freeze Roasted Apple and Aged White Cheddar Soup
Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top as the soup will expand when frozen.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Adjustments: If the texture thickens after freezing, simply add a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency, ensuring your Roasted Apple and Aged White Cheddar Soup is just as delightful as the day it was made!
Make Ahead Options
These Roasted Apple and Aged White Cheddar Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can roast the apples and prepare the sautéed aromatics up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store roasted apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their sweetness and avoid browning. When you’re ready to finish the soup, just combine the prepped ingredients with the broth and apple cider, bring to a boil, and simmer for 15 minutes. Finally, stir in the milk and cheese, purée until creamy, and you’ll have a deliciously comforting bowl of soup made with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Roasted Apple and Aged White Cheddar Soup
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Choose the Right Apples: Select a mix of sweet and tart apples to create a well-balanced flavor. Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are excellent choices.
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Proper Roasting: Roast the apples until they’re soft, but avoid burning them to retain their sweetness. Keep an eye on them as they cook!
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Cooling Before Blending: Let the soup cool slightly before blending to prevent splattering. Safety first—nobody wants a messy kitchen!
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Texture Adjustments: If the soup ends up too thick for your liking, add more broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
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Let It Sit: After cooking, allow the Roasted Apple and Aged White Cheddar Soup to sit for a few minutes. This enhances the flavors and makes every sip even more delightful!
Roasted Apple and Aged White Cheddar Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For a delightful flavor profile, I recommend using a mix of sweet apples like Honeycrisp and tart apples such as Granny Smith. This combination adds depth and balance to your Roasted Apple and Aged White Cheddar Soup.
How can I store leftovers and for how long?
Once your soup has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool before sealing to prevent condensation from forming, which can alter the soup’s texture.
Can I freeze the Roasted Apple and Aged White Cheddar Soup?
Certainly! To freeze, pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.
What if my soup is too thick after freezing?
Very! If your soup thickens after being frozen, simply add a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy texture. Warm it gently, stirring until it reaches your desired consistency, ensuring that your Roasted Apple and Aged White Cheddar Soup tastes just as delicious as when you first made it.
Is this soup suitable for special diets?
Absolutely! This soup can easily cater to various dietary preferences. If you omit the bacon, it becomes a vegetarian-friendly dish. Additionally, you can substitute dairy for non-dairy options like almond milk or coconut cream to make it suitable for vegan diets. Just keep an eye on ingredient labels if you have allergies.
What can I do if I don’t have aged white cheddar?
No worries! While aged white cheddar adds a distinctive sharpness and richness, you can substitute it with other sharp cheeses, like Gruyère or even smoked gouda. Just be mindful that the flavor profile will shift, but it will still be delicious!
Cozy Up with Roasted Apple and Aged White Cheddar Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the apples with some oil, salt, and pepper in a baking dish. Roast them until lightly golden, about 20-30 minutes.
- In a large saucepan, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and thyme, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the roasted apples, broth, and apple cider to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Mix in the milk, aged white cheddar, and mustard. Stir until the cheese melts and the mixture is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or food processor.