Easy Apple Compote Recipe

Apple compote is a versatile, easy-to-make recipe perfect for baking, topping desserts, or adding to breakfasts. Learn how to make it, plus get tips and serving ideas. Ready in under 30 minutes!

Apple compote is one of my favorite go-to fall recipes because it’s incredibly simple to make and bursting with flavor.

Whether I’m using it as a filling for yeast bread, a topping for cakes, or just stirring it into my morning oatmeal, the warm flavors of cinnamon and tender apples add the perfect touch to almost any dish.

Plus, it’s a great way to use up seasonal apples with minimal effort.

Made with just a handful of ingredients, this easy compote recipe will fill your kitchen with a cozy aroma, making it an instant favorite in your home.

Let’s get started!

Jump to:

• Ingredients
• Directions
• Tips
• FAQ
• Serving Suggestions
• More compote recipes
• Recipe origins
• Recipe

Ingredients

• Apples: I like using 4-5 large firm apples, like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, for a balance of sweetness and tartness that holds up well when cooked.
• Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors and prevents the apples from browning too much.
• Light brown sugar: I prefer light brown sugar for its subtle caramel notes, which enhance the overall flavor of the compote.
• Granulated sugar: Adds just a touch of sweetness.
• Cinnamon: I can’t resist adding cinnamon! It brings warmth and depth to the compote, making it feel cozy and inviting—perfect for any time of year. You can use as much or as little as you like, depending on your preference.

Directions

• Peel, core, and chop 4-5 medium apples into bite-sized pieces.

• In a large saucepan, add the chopped apples, 1½ tablespoons lemon juice, 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon. Stir everything to combine.
• Place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and starting to break down. Add a splash of water if the compote starts to stick to the bottom of the pot or if you prefer a thinner consistency.
• Taste to adjust for sweetness.
• Once the apples are soft, remove from heat.

As an option, use a fork or potato masher to lightly mash the apples to your desired texture.

Let the apple compote cool before serving.

Tips

• Use a mix of sweet and tart apples (like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith) for a more complex flavor.
• Taste the compote as it cooks and adjust the level of sweetness based on your preference.
• Add a splash of water if the compote starts to stick to the bottom of the pot or if you prefer a thinner consistency.
• For a chunky compote, cook until just tender. If you like it smoother, mash the apples slightly or blend part of the mixture.
• As an option, add other spices like nutmeg or allspice for a different flavor profile. A pinch of vanilla extract can also add a lovely aroma.

FAQ

Serving Suggestions

• Spoon over oatmeal, yogurt, mini pancakes, buttermilk waffles, or French toast for a sweet and fruity kick.
• Serve warm over vanilla ice cream, ricotta cheesecake, or pound cake for a simple yet flavorful dessert.
• Spread on buttered toast, English muffins, or croissants as a fruity jam alternative.
• Makes a great filling for homemade crepes.
• Pair with roasted chicken, pork or turkey as a sweet complement to the savory flavors.
• Add as a sweet element on a charcuterie or cheese board.
• One of my favorite ways to enjoy it is by eating it with a spoon!

More compote recipes

Recipe origins

I’ve always had a soft spot for apple desserts—whether it’s my mom’s apple cake, apple crostata, or classic apple pie.

I especially love that warm, spiced apple filling!

But sometimes, I crave something simpler, less sweet, and just as satisfying. That’s where this apple compote comes in.

After experimenting with several recipes, I found that when it comes to apple compote, less is truly more.

This recipe is a perfect way to use up an abundance of apples without excessive sugar. It captures the essence of baked apples but with a lighter touch—ideal for adding a bit of fall flavor to breakfasts, desserts, or even savory dishes.

Enjoy!

Recipe