There’s something magical about the combination of apples and cheddar cheese. On paper, it might seem unconventional—sweet, tart apples paired with rich, sharp cheese—but when blended into a creamy soup, the results are absolutely divine. Apple and Cheddar Soup is the kind of dish that makes chilly evenings feel warm and inviting. It’s comforting, slightly sweet, and packed with cozy flavors that remind you of crisp fall days and family gatherings.
I still remember the first time I tried this soup. The aroma of caramelized onions, melting cheddar, and spiced apples filled the kitchen, making everyone eager to grab a bowl. One spoonful, and the creamy texture combined with the balance of sweet and savory was irresistible. Perfect as a starter, light lunch, or even a comforting dinner with crusty bread, this soup is simple to make yet impressively flavorful.
Whether you’re looking for a seasonal favorite or a way to elevate weeknight meals, this soup is a showstopper. And the best part? It’s easily customizable—swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth to make it vegetarian, or use a sharper or milder cheese to suit your taste.
Recipe Overview
Apple and Cheddar Soup is a creamy, velvety soup that balances sweet apples, caramelized onions, and sharp cheddar cheese. Finished with a touch of cream and a hint of thyme, it’s comforting, rich, and perfect for fall or winter dinners. The natural sweetness of apples complements the savory depth of cheddar, making each spoonful a deliciously cozy experience.
Ingredients & Instructions
Ingredients
- 2 apples, peeled and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Onions
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step develops a sweet base for the soup, creating depth of flavor.
Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent browning, which can make the soup taste bitter.
2. Cook the Apples
Add the chopped apples and thyme to the onions. Cook until the apples start to soften, roughly 5–7 minutes. The combination of sweet apples and fragrant thyme gives the soup its signature cozy aroma.
3. Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the apples are tender, about 10–15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and creates a tender base for blending.
Tip: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a more complex flavor—like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith.
4. Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, blend in batches to avoid spills. A smooth texture is key to the creamy mouthfeel of this soup.
5. Add Cheese and Cream
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy.
Tip: Use sharp cheddar for a pronounced cheese flavor, or mild cheddar for a subtler taste. You can also experiment with smoked cheddar for a unique twist.
6. Season and Serve
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your preference. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of extra cheese, fresh thyme, or a swirl of cream. Pair it with crusty bread or homemade croutons for the ultimate cozy meal.
Cooking Tips & Variations
This soup is versatile and can be tailored to suit your taste and dietary needs. Here are some tips and variations:
1. Cheese Choices
While sharp cheddar is classic, you can mix in Gruyère, Fontina, or Monterey Jack for a richer, more complex flavor profile.
2. Apple Varieties
Try combining different apples like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith to balance sweetness and tartness.
3. Make It Vegetarian
Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to make a vegetarian version without compromising flavor.
4. Cream Alternatives
For a lighter or dairy-free option, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk.
5. Add Spice
Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper for subtle warmth and complexity. A dash of smoked paprika can also add a gentle smoky depth.
6. Serving Enhancements
Serve with grilled cheese croutons, a drizzle of apple cider reduction, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent curdling.
Serving Ideas
- Pair with crusty bread or sourdough baguette for dipping.
- Serve as a starter before roasted chicken or pork dishes.
- Top with crispy bacon bits, croutons, or fresh herbs for added texture.
Apple and Cheddar Soup is a beautifully balanced comfort food that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the savory richness of cheddar. It’s creamy, satisfying, and perfect for cold evenings, holiday dinners, or casual weeknight meals. This soup is simple to make yet delivers a sophisticated flavor that will impress family and friends alike.
Whether you enjoy it as a starter or a hearty main with bread, this soup proves that sweet and savory can be a match made in culinary heaven. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a cozy, flavorful bowl of comfort that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, Gruyère, Fontina, or Monterey Jack can be used to vary the flavor.
2. How do I make it vegetarian?
Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days, then reheat gently on the stove.
4. What apple varieties work best?
A mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith gives the best balance.
5. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, replace heavy cream with almond milk or coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese.
Apple and Cheddar Soup is a creamy, cozy blend of sweet apples and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for fall, easy to make, and packed with comforting flavor.