Apple And Cheddar Gratin
A warm, comforting apple and cheddar gratin featuring tart Granny Smith apples, sharp cheddar, and a sweet-spiced topping, perfect for cozy gatherings and fall dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 lb Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored and cut into 1/4-inch slices ⓘ
- 1/2 cup raisins ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon ⓘ
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice ⓘ
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, firmly packed ⓘ
- 1/2 cup flour ⓘ
- 1/8 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/2 stick cold butter, cut into squares ⓘ
- 1 cup finely grated extra sharp Cheddar cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- In a well-buttered 1-quart shallow baking dish, arrange apple slices and sprinkle with raisins, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
- In a small bowl, combine sugar, flour, and salt.
- Blend in butter until mixture resembles coarse meal, then add cheese and toss.
- Sprinkle mixture over apples.
- Bake in the upper third of a preheated oven at 350°F for 30 minutes or until apples are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon. If you prefer a less sweet gratin, reduce the brown sugar to 1/2 cup. You can substitute the Granny Smith apples with Honeycrisp or Braeburn for a different taste. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.
Serving Suggestions
This gratin makes a delightful dessert or a comforting side dish for savory meals. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It pairs beautifully with a slice of Banana Delight Cake for a festive occasion. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside roasted meats or a simple green salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the gratin back in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick reheat, but the oven will help retain the crispiness of the topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple And Cheddar Gratin contains roughly 521 calories, with 5g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1545mg per serving (67% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cheese in this gratin?
Yes, while extra sharp Cheddar cheese adds a great flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Gouda for a different taste profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well to maintain the gratin's creamy texture.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also replace the brown sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup, adjusting the amount to taste.
Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can slice the apples and mix the dry ingredients ahead of time. Assemble the gratin up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just add the cheese and butter topping before baking for the best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).