Try this apple carpaccio recipe—fresh, crisp, and elegant with thinly sliced apples, herbs, and a light drizzle. Perfect for appetizers or a healthy snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’re in for a treat with how effortlessly this ingredient list comes together! Each item here plays its own starring role—crunch, tang, sweetness, and color all mingling for a dish that looks every bit as good as it tastes.
- 2 crisp apples (such as Pink Lady or Honeycrisp): Pick apples that hold their shape and shine with sweet-tart flavor; they’ll create those perfect, thin slices for the Apple Carpaccio.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Not only does lemon prevent the apple slices from browning, it adds a lively brightness to each bite.
- 2 tablespoons runny honey: A gentle drizzle goes a long way, adding floral sweetness that ties all the flavors together.
- 2 tablespoons walnuts or hazelnuts, toasted and chopped: Toasted nuts bring an earthy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender apples.
- A few sprigs fresh mint or thyme leaves: Fresh herbs pop in both color and aroma, giving your Apple Carpaccio a gourmet finish.
- A small piece of blue cheese or goat cheese, crumbled (optional): The saltiness and creaminess of cheese take this simple dish right over the top—highly recommended!
How to Make Apple Carpaccio
Step 1: Slice the Apples Paper-Thin
Start by coring the apples; you can leave the skins on for extra color and texture. Using a mandoline is the quickest way to get those delicate, almost see-through slices, but a very sharp knife will work in a pinch. Take your time so each apple slice is thin and even—this is what gives Apple Carpaccio its signature, elegant look.
Step 2: Arrange on a Platter
Gently layer the apple slices in overlapping circles or spirals on your prettiest serving platter. Lay each piece just over the last, working your way out from the center for a floral, eye-catching design. This step is all about turning simple apples into edible art.
Step 3: Add Lemon Juice
Immediately squeeze the juice of one lemon over the arranged apples. Not only does this keep the slices from browning, but it adds a lift of zesty flavor that brightens the whole dish. No one wants brown apples in their Apple Carpaccio, so don’t skip this quick step!
Step 4: Drizzle with Honey
Now, gently zigzag your honey over the apples. Aim for even coverage so each bite gets a hint of that warm, floral sweetness. The honey acts like a glossy dressing, making everything glisten just a bit.
Step 5: Sprinkle Nuts and Fresh Herbs
Scatter the toasted, chopped walnuts or hazelnuts over the apples. Their toasted crunch is pure delight next to the tender fruit. Add a few mint leaves or thyme, torn or left whole, for a pop of color and unexpected freshness that makes your Apple Carpaccio really sing.
Step 6: Top with Cheese (Optional)
If you’re feeling extra-fancy, finish with a light scattering of crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese. This is the step that changes Apple Carpaccio from a simple snack to a dish worthy of a celebration, adding a creamy, tangy edge that’s just irresistible.
How to Serve Apple Carpaccio
Garnishes
Don’t hold back on garnishing your Apple Carpaccio! A few extra mint sprigs or thyme leaves right before serving make things pop. If you’re feeling playful, a twist of lemon zest or even a few edible flowers can turn your platter into a centerpiece that begs to be admired.
Side Dishes
Apple Carpaccio shines as a light dessert, but it also works beautifully as a fresh starter alongside savory options like mild cheeses, charcuterie, or herby focaccia. Pair it with crisp sparkling wine or bubbly water with a squeeze of citrus for a perfectly balanced bite every time.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the platter! Try assembling your Apple Carpaccio on individual plates for a personalized appetizer, or create bite-sized stacks for party finger food. Layering it onto crostini with a smear of goat cheese or a shower of extra herbs is pure entertaining magic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (though it’s rare!), gently cover the Apple Carpaccio with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within 1 day, as the apples will gradually soften and may lose their crispness over time.
Freezing
This isn’t a dish that loves the freezer, unfortunately! Freezing will change the texture of the apples, making them limp and watery, so it’s best to prepare only as much Apple Carpaccio as you know you’ll enjoy fresh.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat Apple Carpaccio—it’s designed to be eaten chilled or at room temperature. Any warming will affect the delicate raw apple texture and likely make the nuts less crisp, so simply serve it cold for maximum crunch and freshness.
FAQs
Can I make Apple Carpaccio in advance?
Yes, you can prep your apple slices and toppings ahead by holding everything separately, then assemble just before serving. This keeps the apples looking their best and ensures all the textures stay vibrant.
What kind of apples are best for Apple Carpaccio?
Choose firm, crisp varieties like Pink Lady, Honeycrisp, or even Granny Smith for extra tartness. These keep their shape and provide that satisfying snap essential for a memorable Apple Carpaccio.
Can I leave out the cheese?
Absolutely! The cheese is an optional finishing touch. Apple Carpaccio is still incredibly delicious made simply with apples, honey, nuts, and herbs, so feel free to make it vegan or dairy-free without losing any wow-factor.
How do I keep the apple slices from browning?
A quick toss or brush with fresh lemon juice does the trick! Coat the slices as soon as they’re cut to lock in color and preserve the apples’ natural beauty for your Apple Carpaccio.
What’s a good nut substitute if I have allergies?
Try toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for similar crunch and depth, or skip the nuts entirely and add extra herbs or a sprinkle of granola for texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that’s stunningly simple and endlessly versatile, Apple Carpaccio is for you! It’s the kind of recipe that lets fresh fruit steal the spotlight, while giving you plenty of room for creativity. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed how quickly this fresh, gorgeous plate disappears at your table.
More Fresh & Fruity Recipe Ideas
If you enjoyed this elegant Apple Carpaccio Recipe, you’ll love trying more dishes that highlight apples and bright, fresh flavors. For a creamy dessert twist, our Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake Delight layers crisp apples with a rich filling. If you prefer handheld sweets, the Apple Cheesecake Tacos are a fun way to enjoy apple flavor with a crunch. For a warm and cozy bake, try our Apple Fritter Bread. Looking for a lighter dessert? The Apple Crumble Bars balance tart fruit with a buttery topping. And if you want to keep it simple and versatile, our homemade Apple Pie Filling is perfect for pastries, pies, and more.
Print
Apple Carpaccio Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Apple Carpaccio is a light, elegant dessert featuring paper-thin apple slices drizzled with honey and topped with toasted nuts, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of cheese. Quick to assemble and visually stunning, this fresh dish makes the perfect refreshing dessert or impressive starter for any occasion.
Ingredients
Fruit
- 2 crisp apples (such as Pink Lady or Honeycrisp)
- Juice of 1 lemon
Toppings
- 2 tablespoons runny honey
- 2 tablespoons walnuts or hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
- A few sprigs fresh mint or thyme leaves
- A small piece of blue cheese or goat cheese, crumbled (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Core the apples and, using a mandoline or a very sharp knife, slice them as thinly as possible into even rounds.
- Arrange: Lay the apple slices in slightly overlapping concentric circles on a large serving platter, creating a carpaccio effect.
- Prevent Browning: Squeeze the juice of one lemon evenly over the apple slices to keep them crisp and stop them from browning.
- Add Honey: Drizzle the runny honey slowly over the apple slices so each round gets a touch of sweetness.
- Top with Nuts and Herbs: Sprinkle the toasted, chopped walnuts or hazelnuts over the apples. Garnish generously with fresh mint or thyme leaves for fragrance and color.
- Finish with Cheese (Optional): Scatter small crumbles of blue cheese or goat cheese over the apples for a savory twist, if desired.
- Serve: Present immediately as an elegant dessert or a light, unexpected starter.
Notes
- For best results, slice apples just before serving to maintain freshness and color.
- Experiment with different apple varieties for contrasting flavors.
- The cheese is optional—omit for a fully dairy-free or vegan dish.
- Toasted almonds or pistachios can be substituted for walnuts/hazelnuts.
- Serve chilled for extra freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg