As crisp fall weather approaches, many of us love to head out to one of the many apple orchards in Fairfield County for a day of apple picking—and now is the time!
Apples are at their peak during this time of year, and nothing complements their sweet, tart taste quite like cheese. Whether preparing a fall cheeseboard, indulging in an autumnal snack, or making a lunch box treat for the kids, cheese and apple pairings are a delicious way to savor the season's bounty.
Here are a few suggestions for pairing cheese and apples. First, consider the intensity of the cheese. For example, a sharp cheddar or tangy blue cheese pairs beautifully with the sweet tartness of Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apple. The contrast of flavors creates a well-rounded experience.
Another consideration is the texture of the cheese. Creamy Brie or Camembert cheese complements the crunchy texture of apples, while a firm and nutty cheese like Gouda or aged Gruyere pairs nicely with softer, ripe apples. Let's explore some of the best combinations to try this fall.
Shelburne Farms Cheddar with Honeycrisp or Gala Apples
Cheddar and apples are a classic pairing, but this combination truly shines when apples are at their freshest in the fall. Shelburne's rich, bold flavor perfectly complements Honeycrisp or Gala apples' crisp, juicy sweetness. The contrast between the acidity of the cheese and the mellow sweetness of the apple creates a satisfying balance that will keep you coming back for more.
Serving Tip: Arrange sliced apples and cheddar on a charcuterie board with some toasted nuts and honey for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Your Favorite Brie with Fuji or Pink Lady Apples
Creamy and buttery, Brie pairs beautifully with the subtle tartness of Fuji or Pink Lady apples. Brie's rich, earthy flavor softens the bright acidity of these apples, creating a luxurious and mellow bite.
Serving Tip: For a delicious sandwich, combine a wedge of Brie with ham, thinly sliced apples, and a drizzle of honey. You could even grill it!
Linedeline with Granny Smith Apples
For those who enjoy a tangier pairing, goat cheese with Granny Smith apples is an excellent choice. The tartness of the Granny Smith highlights the creamy, slightly tangy flavor of younger goat cheese. This combination offers a zesty bite with a perfect balance of acidity and creaminess that's sure to wake up your taste buds.
Serving Tip: Place Linedeline on apple slices and top with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an herbaceous twist.
Wilde Weide Gouda with Cortland Apples
Mild, nutty, sweet Gouda complements the soft sweetness of Cortland apples in a way that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly fall afternoon. With its caramel-like notes, Aged Gouda can add an even richer depth of flavor to the apple's natural sweetness, making this pairing feel indulgent yet approachable.
Serving Tip: For an autumn-inspired picnic or snack, enjoy slices of Wilde Weide and Cortland apples with some crusty bread and apple butter.
The beauty of cheese and apple pairings is that there's a combination for everyone, whether you prefer bold, tangy flavors or something more mild and creamy. The key to a perfect pairing is balance – matching the apple's sweetness or tartness with the cheese's intensity or richness. As the leaves turn and the temperatures drop, these pairings are a great way to embrace the flavors of the fall season.
So, this autumn, gather some friends, prepare a platter of cheese and apples, and toast to the harvest season with these delicious pairings. The combination of fresh, crisp apples and rich, flavorful cheeses is just what you need to celebrate fall in the most delicious way possible.
