Apple Compote

Easy and packed with rich flavor, apple compote is the perfect topping for everything from pancakes to ice cream to chicken. This recipe includes crystalized ginger for an extra pop of flavor you don’t want to miss!

Apple compote in a glass jar on a white tablecloth beside a spoon with an apple in the background.
Woman smiling while standing in a sunny room.

Inspired by a Childhood Favorite

There’s this misconception that clean food is boring, and I hate it. While there’s a thousand ways to make healthy food fun and flavorful, homemade compote is one of my favorite things to make to spice up any dish. Whether it’s cranberry compote for Thanksgiving or mixed berry compote over a gluten-free Dutch baby, these sauces take any dish to the next level.

I grew up on fried apples (you’ve got to try my clean version of this recipe), so when I decided create an apple compote recipe inspired by it, I knew it would be nothing short of the ultimate clean comfort food.

How to Serve

Over pancakes – Whether you make fluffy gluten and dairy-free pancakes or try oatmeal pumpkin pancakes for fall, apple compote is the perfect finishing touch!

With yogurt Homemade yogurt and compote is the ultimate breakfast combination!

Over pork or chicken – Apples pair beautifully with many savory meat dishes.

On a charcuterie board – This compote pairs perfectly with almost any type of cheese including cream cheese, cheddar, and blue cheese.

As an ice cream topping – If you want an incredible dessert, serve this with my favorite healthy homemade ice cream!

Top view of a glass jar of apple compote beside an apple and a bowl with more compote.

FAQs

How long does apple compote keep?

Apple compote can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 5-7 days. It can also be frozen for 2-3 months.

What’s the difference between applesauce and apple compote?

Apple compote is made from cubed apples that have been cooked until they are soft, however, applesauce is made with cooked, puréed apples.

Should you peel apples for compote?

Yes, for the best texture, you should always peel the apples for apple compote.

What are the best apples for compote?

Choose apples that are firm and have a good balance between sweet and tart flavor. Some of the best choices are Granny Smith, Gala, Honey Crisp, and Pink Lady.

Tools You May Need

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Labeled ingredients on a wood surface including apples, lemon juice, crystalized ginger, maple syrup, spices, salt, and vanilla.

Ingredients

This a quick overview of a few essential ingredients needed for this recipe. Make sure to check out the recipe card below for the full list and amounts!

  • Apples – Fresh, firm apples with a good balance between sweet and tart are the best for compote. I used Gala apples in this recipe though Pink Lady, Honey Crisp, or Granny Smith would also be delicious.
  • Maple syrup – Adds the perfect touch of warm flavor and natural sweetness.
  • Crystalized ginger – This is what makes the flavor pop! However, if you’re not a fan of ginger, feel free to leave it out. Your compote will still be delicious!
  • Lemon juice – Just like you wouldn’t skip salting your dinner, lemon juice is essential to apple compote! Fresh lemon juice is the best, but you can use bottled lemon juice if that’s all you have.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Chopped apples and other ingredients in a saucepan on a wooden surface.

Step 1: First, place all of the ingredients in a medium saucepan and heat on low to medium heat.

Closeup of apple compote heaped in a glass jar on a white surface.

Step 2: Then cook the compote for 25-30 minutes, until the apples are tender, making sure to stir the mixture frequently.

Enjoy warm or cold over your favorite dishes!

If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments! Tag me on Instagram @violet_rightathome

More Clean Eating Apple Recipes

Apple Oat Muffins

Gluten and Dairy-Free Apple Crisp

Closeup of apple compote in a glass jar on a white tablecloth.

Apple Compote

Packed with rich flavor and a pop of ginger, this easy apple compote is the perfect topping for everything from pancakes to ice cream.
Print Pin Rate
Course: Clean Eating Breakfast, Clean Eating Condiments, Clean Eating Dessert Recipes
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings (approximately 3 cups)
Calories: 111kcal
Author: Violet Parcha

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds apples peeled and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons crystalized ginger finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice from half a lemon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon cloves
  • 1 pinch salt

Instructions

  • Place all of the ingredients in a medium saucepan and heat on low to medium heat.
    2 pounds apples, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 2 tablespoons crystalized ginger, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 teaspoon vanilla, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/8 teaspoon cloves, 1 pinch salt
  • Cook the apples for 25-30 minutes, until the apples are tender, making sure to stir the mixture frequently.
  • Enjoy warm or cold.

Notes

Store apple compote in an airtight container in the fridge for 5-7 days. It can also be frozen for 2-3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 111kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 0.4g | Fat: 0.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 9mg | Potassium: 184mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 22g | Vitamin A: 83IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 0.2mg

If you love apple compote, please make sure to come back and leave a comment and a 5 star rating. I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!

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