We’ve always been captivated by Bickford’s Big Apple Recipe, a timeless nod to New York’s vibrant culinary scene. It’s a hearty dish that celebrates fresh apples and warm spices, evoking the cozy vibes of the Big Apple itself.
As food enthusiasts, we’re excited to guide you through this easy-to-make favorite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving a simple treat, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s bring those iconic flavors to life together.
Ingredients
In our Bickford’s Big Apple Recipe, we gather these key ingredients to capture the essence of fresh apples and warm spices. We’ve organized them in the order they’re used during preparation, with specific prep notes for accuracy.
- Apples: 6 medium-sized, fresh Granny Smith or *Honeycrisp apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced to ensure even baking and a tender texture.
- Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice, added next to toss with the apples and prevent browning.
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup, for sweetening the apple mixture and balancing the tartness.
- Ground cinnamon: 2 teaspoons, a warm spice that enhances the apple flavors as it’s mixed in.
- Ground nutmeg: ½ teaspoon, for a subtle nutty warmth, combined with cinnamon.
- All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups, sifted for the crust or topping to provide structure.
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), chilled and cubed, used for creating a flaky texture in the dough.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon, fine sea salt to enhance overall flavors.
- Water: ¼ cup cold water, added as needed for binding the dough mixture.
Equipment Needed
To prepare Bickford’s Big Apple Recipe seamlessly after gathering our ingredients, we need a few essential tools that ensure precision and ease in the kitchen. Let’s outline the key equipment below, organized by the typical sequence of use for optimal workflow.
- Knife: A sharp chef’s knife for peeling and slicing the apples evenly, helping us achieve that perfect texture without any hassle.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy wooden or plastic board to provide a safe surface for chopping and preparing our fresh apples and other ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate sets for measuring granulated sugar, flour, and spices precisely, as exact quantities are crucial for balancing the warm, comforting flavors.
- Mixing Bowls: At least two medium-sized bowls—one for combining dry ingredients like flour and spices, and another for mixing wet components such as lemon juice and butter—to keep our prep organized and mess-free.
- Baking Dish or Pie Pan: A 9-inch round or rectangular dish (preferably oven-safe) where we’ll assemble and bake the apple mixture, ensuring even cooking and a golden finish.
- Oven: A standard kitchen oven preheated to the right temperature for baking, which is key to developing those iconic New York-inspired spices and aromas.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: A heat-resistant tool for stirring and mixing ingredients thoroughly, making it easier to incorporate elements like butter and cinnamon without overworking the dough.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to transition smoothly into the preparation steps, maximizing efficiency and enhancing our overall cooking experience.
Instructions
We make preparing Bickford’s Big Apple Recipe straightforward and enjoyable, using the ingredients and tools we’ve outlined to craft a warm, spiced apple delight that evokes New York’s comforting flavors. Follow these steps for a seamless process that highlights fresh apples and aromatic spices.
Prep
Before we dive into cooking, let’s prepare our fresh apples and other components to ensure everything blends perfectly for maximum flavor.
- Wash and slice the apples: Start by rinsing 6 medium-sized Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples under cold water to remove any residue, then pat them dry. Use a sharp chef’s knife to core and slice them into even 1/4-inch thick pieces, yielding about 6 cups of apple slices that will release a crisp, juicy texture when baked.
- Toss with lemon juice and spices: In a large mixing bowl, combine the apple slices with 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to prevent browning and enhance tartness. Add 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, stirring gently with a spatula until the apples glisten with a sweet, spicy coating that promises a fragrant aroma.
- Prepare the dry mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and an additional 2 tablespoons granulated sugar for a crumbly topping. Cut in 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (chilled and cubed) using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture forms pea-sized clumps, creating a buttery base that will crisp up beautifully.
Cook
Now that our ingredients are prepped, we move to the cooking stage to transform them into a golden, bubbling masterpiece full of warm spice notes.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to fully preheat, ensuring even baking that caramelizes the apples to a tender, syrupy consistency.
- Bake the assembled dish: Once everything is layered in the baking dish, place it in the center of the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top turns a golden brown and the apples soften with a mouthwatering scent of cinnamon and nutmeg filling your kitchen.
- Check for doneness: About halfway through, rotate the dish for uniform cooking, and use a fork to test if the apples are fork-tender yet still hold their shape, avoiding overcooking to preserve that fresh, vibrant flavor.
Assemble
With prepped elements ready, we assemble the dish to layer flavors and textures, setting the stage for a cohesive, irresistible Bickford’s Big Apple treat.
- Layer the apples in the baking dish: Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with a bit of unsalted butter for easy release, then spread the prepared apple mixture evenly across the bottom, creating a juicy base that will bubble up during baking.
- Add the topping: Sprinkle the dry flour-butter mixture over the apples in an even layer, ensuring full coverage for a crunchy contrast that locks in the moisture and amplifies the warm spice profile.
- Incorporate liquid for binding: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of cold water over the top to help bind everything together, then gently pat down with a spatula for a compact assembly that bakes into a harmonious blend of soft apples and crisp edges.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To streamline our preparation of Bickford’s Big Apple Recipe and maximize its comforting flavors of fresh apples and warm spices, we recommend these make-ahead strategies. This approach lets us save time while ensuring the dish retains its iconic New York-inspired taste and texture.
Preparing the Apple Mixture in Advance
We can prepare the sliced apples and their seasoning ahead to enhance flavor infusion. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Step 1: After washing and slicing the apples as outlined in our earlier instructions, toss them immediately with fresh lemon juice, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg in a large mixing bowl. This prevents browning and allows the spices to penetrate the apples’ crisp texture.
- Step 2: Transfer the seasoned apple mixture to an airtight container. For the best results, we suggest adding a light sprinkle of all-purpose flour to absorb excess moisture, then seal and refrigerate. This step ensures the apples stay firm and flavorful.
Making the Topping Ahead
The crumbly topping is another element we can prepare in advance, giving it a chance to develop a richer, more cohesive consistency.
- Step 1: In a separate bowl, combine unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, a pinch of salt, and any remaining spices. Use your fingers or a fork to work the butter into a coarse, sandy mixture as described previously.
- Step 2: Store the topping in a resealable bag or container in the refrigerator. If making it more than a day ahead, we advise freezing it to preserve its buttery flakiness.
Assembling and Storing the Dish
For even greater convenience, we can partially assemble Bickford’s Big Apple Recipe before baking.
- Step 1: Layer the prepared apple mixture into the baking dish as per our assembly instructions, then sprinkle the topping evenly over it.
- Step 2: Cover the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. If freezing, wrap it securely and store for up to 3 months to lock in the warm, aromatic spices.
To provide clear guidance on storage durations and tips, we have compiled the following table:
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 24 hours | Keep covered to maintain moisture and prevent the apples from drying out; this enhances the dish’s fresh, tangy notes. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking; reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for even warmth and texture. |
Reheating and Baking Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy the dish, we ensure a seamless transition from make-ahead to serving.
- Step 1: If refrigerated, remove the dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to avoid shocking the oven.
- Step 2: Preheat the oven to the specified temperature and bake as per our original instructions, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time if the dish was chilled. This step guarantees a golden, bubbling finish with the signature blend of sweet and spicy aromas.
By following these make-ahead instructions, we make Bickford’s Big Apple Recipe even more accessible for gatherings or quick treats.
Conclusion
We’ve loved exploring Bickford’s Big Apple Recipe and how it brings a taste of New York’s warmth to your kitchen. It’s a versatile treat that elevates simple ingredients into something truly special.
As we wrap up, we’re confident you’ll find joy in making and sharing this dish with loved ones. Give it a try and make it your own—it’s sure to become a favorite in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bickford’s Big Apple Recipe?
Bickford’s Big Apple Recipe is a comforting New York-inspired dish featuring fresh apples and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s easy to make, perfect for gatherings or as a simple treat, blending iconic flavors for a delicious baked dessert that highlights fresh ingredients and enhances home cooking.
What ingredients are needed for Bickford’s Big Apple Recipe?
You’ll need 6 medium Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples, fresh lemon juice, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, salt, and cold water. These are organized by use for accuracy, with prep notes like washing and slicing apples to boost flavor and texture.
What equipment is required to prepare this recipe?
Essential tools include a sharp chef’s knife for slicing apples, a sturdy cutting board, measuring cups and spoons for precision, mixing bowls for ingredients, a baking dish for assembly, a preheated oven for baking, and a spatula or wooden spoon for mixing, ensuring a smooth cooking process.
How do I make Bickford’s Big Apple Recipe?
Start by washing and slicing apples, then toss with lemon juice and spices. Prepare a crumbly topping with flour, butter, and sugar. Preheat the oven, layer apples in a baking dish, add topping and liquid, then bake at the recommended temperature until golden and tender, checking for doneness with a knife.
Can I prepare Bickford’s Big Apple Recipe in advance?
Yes, make the apple mixture ahead by slicing apples, tossing with lemon juice and spices, and storing in an airtight container with flour to keep them firm. Prepare the topping separately and refrigerate or freeze it. You can partially assemble the dish, cover, and store in the fridge or freezer for easy baking later.
How should I store and reheat Bickford’s Big Apple Recipe?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw if frozen, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through, or use a microwave for quicker results while maintaining texture.
Are there any tips for the best results with this recipe?
Use fresh, firm apples like Granny Smith for a balance of tartness and texture. Measure ingredients precisely, preheat your oven, and avoid overmixing the topping for a crumbly finish. For enhanced flavor, let the assembled dish rest before baking, and always check doneness to prevent overcooking.