The Recipages feature in our Fall 2014 issue celebrates everything the winter season brings: warm roasts, snuggly soups… But just because it offers up tried-and-true classics doesn’t mean they have to be boring.

Creamy, cheesy, and delicious, this cozy soup finds its perfect match with roasted apple chunks. We promise, it’s sure to impress your guests this holiday season.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 4 apples, peeled, cored and cut into 1 inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 teaspoon thyme, chopped
• 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 cup apple cider or apple juice
• 1 cup milk or cream
• 1 cup aged white cheddar, shredded
• 1 tablespoon grainy dijon mustard
• salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400 F. Toss the apples in oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven until lightly golden brown, about 20 to 30 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat, add the onion and sauté until tender, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the garlic and thyme and cook until fragrant. Add the apples, broth, and cider and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Mix in the milk, cheese and mustard, let the cheese melt, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve.

Adapted from closetcooking.com.

This story was originally featured in Baked’s Fall 2014 issue. To read more, click here.