Apple and Cheddar Soup Recipe

Introduction

Apple and Cheddar Soup is a comforting blend of sweet fruit and sharp cheese, perfect for chilly days. This creamy soup balances the natural sweetness of apples with the savory depth of cheddar, offering a unique and delicious twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 apples (peeled and chopped)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Step 2: Add the apples and thyme, and cook for another 5 minutes until the apples soften.
3. Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Step 4: Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or in batches with a regular blender.
5. Step 5: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream, cooking on low heat until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy.
6. Step 6: Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot!

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
• Use Granny Smith apples for a tart flavor or Fuji apples for extra sweetness.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper for a subtle warming spice.
• Garnish with extra shredded cheddar and fresh thyme leaves for a beautiful presentation.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the cheese from separating. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, mild cheddar works well, but you can experiment with other melting cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina for a different flavor profile.

Is this soup suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. Always check labels to be sure.

Apple and Cheddar Soup Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 143 reviews

This creamy and comforting Apple and Cheddar Soup combines the subtle sweetness of tender apples with the sharp, rich flavor of cheddar cheese. Simmered with onions, thyme, and chicken broth, then blended to a smooth texture and finished with heavy cream, this soup is perfect for a cozy lunch or light dinner.

• Author: Lena
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Soup Base

• 2 apples, peeled and chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 4 cups chicken broth

Finishing Ingredients

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Sauté onion: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Add apples and thyme: Stir in the peeled and chopped apples along with the thyme. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes, allowing the apples to soften and release their aroma.
3. Simmer soup: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes so the flavors meld and the apples become tender.
4. Blend soup: Using an immersion blender, puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until creamy.
5. Add cheese and cream: Return the blended soup to low heat, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Cook gently, stirring frequently, until the cheese has fully melted and the soup is velvety and creamy.
6. Season and serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference. Serve hot for a satisfying meal.

Notes

• Use sharp cheddar for a distinct cheese flavor, but mild cheddar can be substituted for less intensity.
• For a vegetarian version, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
• The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
• Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon can complement the apple flavor nicely.
• If the soup is too thick after blending, add a little extra broth or water to reach desired consistency.

Keywords: Apple soup, Cheddar soup, creamy soup, autumn recipe, easy soup, comfort food