What are Aplets Recipes?
Aplets Recipes are a type of candy that has been enjoyed by people across the United States for over a century! They're a unique blend of sweet and tart, with a soft and chewy texture that makes them irresistible.
The recipe for Aplets was first created back in the early 1900s by two Armenian immigrants, Mark Balaban and Armen Tertsagian. The two men settled in the town of Cashmere, Washington, and began experimenting with different fruit-based confections. They eventually landed on the recipe for Aplets, which they began selling to locals and visitors alike.
The candy quickly became a hit, and the two men decided to start their own candy company: Liberty Orchards. Today, Liberty Orchards is still based in Cashmere and is still run by the families of Balaban and Tertsagian. They continue to produce Aplets and other fruit-based candies, using the same original recipe developed by the two Armenian immigrants over a century ago.
What Makes Aplets Unique?
One of the things that makes Aplets so unique is their use of fresh fruit. The candy is made with a blend of apples, apricots, and walnuts, which are all grown in the lush orchards of Washington State's Wenatchee Valley. The fruit is harvested at the peak of ripeness and then processed into a puree, which is then cooked with sugar and other ingredients to create a soft, chewy candy.
Another thing that sets Aplets apart from other candies is their flavor. The combination of sweet apples, tart apricots, and crunchy walnuts creates a complex and delicious taste that is both satisfying and refreshing. The candy is also lightly coated with powdered sugar, which adds a touch of sweetness and helps to prevent sticking.
How to Enjoy Aplets
Aplets are a versatile candy that can be enjoyed in many different ways. They make a great snack on their own, or they can be used as a topping for ice cream or yogurt. They can also be chopped up and added to baked goods, like muffins or cookies, for a burst of fruity flavor.
One classic way to enjoy Aplets is to pair them with cheese. Their sweet and tangy flavor pairs perfectly with sharp cheddar or creamy blue cheese, making them a popular addition to cheese boards and charcuterie platters.
Another popular way to enjoy Aplets is to use them in holiday cooking. They're a staple in many Thanksgiving and Christmas recipes, where they're often combined with other seasonal ingredients like cranberries or pumpkin.
Where to Find Aplets Recipes
If you're looking for Aplets recipes, the best place to start is the Liberty Orchards website. They offer a wide selection of recipes that feature Aplets and their other fruit-based candies. From holiday classics like Aplets and Cranberries Stuffing to year-round favorites like Aplets Cheesecake Bars, there are plenty of tasty and creative ways to use these delicious candies.
You can also find Aplets recipes in cookbooks and online recipe databases. However, be aware that many of these recipes are not officially endorsed by Liberty Orchards and may not produce the same quality results as those using the original Aplets candy.
The Future of Aplets
Despite their century-long history, Aplets and other fruit-based candies from Liberty Orchards faced a crisis in the 21st century when the FDA began to enforce stricter labeling and nutritional requirements. In response, Liberty Orchards launched a successful social media campaign to rally support for their traditional recipes and methods.
Today, Aplets and other Liberty Orchards candies remain a beloved treat for generations of candy lovers. Whether you're enjoying them on their own or using them in a recipe, Aplets offer a unique and delicious flavor that is sure to delight your taste buds!
Valuable Tips for Making Aplets Recipes
If you're planning on making a batch of aplets, a delicious candy made with apples and walnuts, it's important to follow the recipe instructions carefully. However, there are some additional tips and techniques you can use to ensure your aplets turn out perfectly. Here are some expert tips to follow when making aplets recipes:
1. Use the Best Ingredients
One of the most important things to consider when making aplets is the quality of the ingredients you use. Apples and walnuts are the primary ingredients, so you want to make sure you choose the freshest, highest-quality versions of each. Look for crisp, sweet apples, such as Honeycrisp or Fuji, and fresh, crunchy walnuts. Additionally, use high-quality sugar, corn syrup, and other ingredients in the recipe to ensure the best possible flavor and texture.
2. Cook the Syrup to the Right Temperature
When making aplets, you need to cook a syrup made with sugar, corn syrup, and water to a specific temperature before adding the apples and walnuts. This temperature is usually between 235 and 240 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the recipe. It's important to use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature carefully, as cooking the syrup to the wrong temperature can cause the aplets to turn out too hard or too soft.
3. Use Clean, Dry Apples
Before adding the apples to the syrup, it's important to make sure they're clean and dry. Use a damp cloth or paper towel to wipe off any dirt or debris on the surface, and make sure the apples are completely dry before adding them to the syrup. Wet apples can cause the syrup to seize or become clumpy, which can ruin the texture of the aplets.
4. Stir Gently and Constantly
While the syrup is cooking and after adding the apples and walnuts, it's important to stir the mixture gently and constantly. This helps to distribute the heat and prevent the syrup from clumping or burning. Use a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula to stir the mixture slowly and continuously, making sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the pot as you go.
5. Let the Mixture Cool Properly
After cooking the syrup, apples, and walnuts together, it's important to let the mixture cool properly before cutting it into pieces. This allows the candy to set and develop the right texture and flavor. Follow the recipe instructions carefully for cooling times, and avoid rushing the process by putting the candy in the fridge or freezer. Let it cool at room temperature for the best results.
6. Cut the Aplets Carefully
When it's time to cut the aplets into individual pieces, it's important to use a sharp knife and a gentle touch. Aplets can be quite sticky and difficult to cut cleanly, so take your time and use a sawing motion with the knife to avoid pulling or tearing the candy. If you find the candy is too hard to cut, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften up.
7. Store the Aplets Properly
Finally, after making a batch of aplets, it's important to store them properly to maintain their freshness and flavor. Most aplets recipes call for storing the candy in an airtight container at room temperature, but check the recipe instructions for specifics. Avoid storing the candy in the fridge or freezer, as this can cause it to develop a gummy or sticky texture.
Conclusion
By following these tips and techniques, you can make delicious, high-quality aplets at home. Remember to use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients, cook the syrup to the right temperature, stir gently, and cut the candy carefully. With a little patience and attention to detail, your aplets will turn out perfectly every time.
