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In the following we will uncover the best-suited stepover apple trees for indulging in the rich flavors of this beloved fruit. Stepover apple trees, with their low-growing and compact structure, have become a cherished addition to British gardens. Not only do they make for picturesque and space-saving orchards, but they also offer an array of apple varieties that are bursting with taste and fragrance.
Stepover apples have gained popularity among both seasoned gardeners and newcomers, making it essential to choose the right apple tree for your garden. A CRJFruitTrees expert recommended two stellar options for those seeking the finest flavored stepover apple tree varieties: the ‘Bramley’ and the ‘Discovery.’ These cultivars are known for their exceptional taste and versatility in culinary applications.
The Best-Suited Stepover Apple Trees for Flavoured Apples
Bramley – Britain’s Beloved Culinary Classic
Variety: Bramley apples are renowned for their tartness, making them a superb choice for cooking and baking.
Flavor Profile: These apples have a sharp, tangy flavor with a hint of sweetness, perfect for pies, crumbles, and sauces.
Growing Profile: Bramley stepover apple trees are vigorous and hardy, producing an abundance of fruit.
Harvest Season: Late September to early October.
Recipes: Bramley apples shine in traditional British desserts like apple pie and apple crumble, adding a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the dish.
Discovery – A Taste of Summertime
Variety: Discovery apples are prized for their crisp texture and vibrant red skin.
Flavor Profile: These apples offer a sweet, slightly tart taste with a hint of strawberry flavor, making them perfect for fresh eating.
Growing Profile: Discovery stepover apple trees are compact and ideal for small gardens or containers.
Harvest Season: Late August to early September.
Recipes: Enjoy Discovery apples in salads, as a snack, or transformed into a delightful applesauce to savor summer all year round.
Now that we’ve identified these exceptional stepover apple tree varieties, let’s delve into some mouthwatering recipes that showcase the incredible flavors of Bramley and Discovery apples. These recipes celebrate the versatility of stepover apples, whether you’re aiming for a sweet treat or a savory delight.
1. Bramley Apple Pie
Ingredients:
4-5 Bramley apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
150g granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp lemon juice
1 pack of ready-made shortcrust pastry
1 egg (for egg wash)
Icing sugar for dusting
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
In a large bowl, combine the sliced Bramley apples, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Mix well.
Roll out the shortcrust pastry and line a pie dish with it. Trim any excess pastry.
Fill the pastry shell with the apple mixture.
Roll out another piece of pastry to create a lid for the pie. Seal the edges and make a few small slits on top for ventilation.
To give the pie a golden touch, brush the top with beaten egg.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the pie is golden brown and the apples are tender.
Allow the pie to cool slightly before dusting with icing sugar. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
2. Discovery Apple Salad with Honey and Walnuts
Ingredients:
2-3 Discovery apples, thinly sliced
100g mixed greens
50g walnuts, toasted
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
In a large salad bowl, combine the sliced Discovery apples, mixed greens, and toasted walnuts.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Serve the salad immediately as a refreshing and nutritious side dish.
3. Bramley Apple and Blackberry Crumble
Ingredients:
4-5 Bramley apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
200g blackberries
100g granulated sugar
150g plain flour
75g unsalted butter, cold and cubed
50g rolled oats
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced Bramley apples, blackberries, and half of the granulated sugar. Mix well and transfer to a baking dish.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour and remaining sugar. Rub in the cold butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Stir in the rolled oats.
Enough crumble mixture should be equally distributed over the fruit in the baking dish.
Bake the crumble for thirty-five to forty minutes, or until it reaches a golden brown colour and the fruit begins to bubble.
Serve the Bramley apple and blackberry crumble warm with a dollop of clotted cream or custard for a comforting dessert.
4. Discovery Apple Sauce
Ingredients:
4-5 Discovery apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
50g granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 cup water
Instructions:
Place the chopped Discovery apples, sugar, ground cinnamon, and water in a saucepan.
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples break down and become soft, about 15-20 minutes.
Remove from heat and use a potato masher or fork to mash the apples to your desired consistency.
Taste the applesauce and adjust the sugar if needed.
Allow the applesauce to cool before serving. It can be refrigerated for up to one week and enjoyed as a topping for pancakes, yogurt, or as a side with roast pork.
Conclusion
These delightful recipes not only highlight the exceptional flavors of stepover apples but also showcase their incredible versatility in both sweet and savory dishes. Whether you prefer the tangy zing of Bramley apples or the sweet juiciness of Discovery apples, stepover apple trees can be a flavorful addition to your garden and your culinary repertoire.
Incorporating stepover apple trees into your outdoor space not only provides delicious fruits but also adds aesthetic charm. Their low stature and neatly-trained branches create an enchanting border or pathway, transforming your garden into a picturesque haven.
The joy of harvesting your own apples from stepover trees is a rewarding experience for gardeners of all levels. The flavors of stepover apples can elevate your home-cooked meals and desserts, making them truly unforgettable. Whether you are baking a classic Bramley apple pie or enjoying the simplicity of a Discovery apple salad, these recipes capture the essence of British apple heritage and the beauty of stepover apple trees. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the flavors, and savor the bite-sized delights of stepover apples.
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