The aroma wafting from my kitchen evoked crisp autumn days and warm gatherings as I stirred my Creamy Maple Brie and Cheddar Apple Soup. It’s a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that transforms the humble apple into something extraordinary, reminiscent of cherished family gatherings around the table. With its creamy texture and the added crunch of walnut oat crumble, this soup isn’t just comfort food—it’s a culinary hug that’s perfect for chilly evenings or festive occasions. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and offers a gluten-free option for those with dietary preferences. Ready to cozy up with a bowl of comfort that warms both heart and soul? Let’s dive in!

Why is this soup a must-try?

Indulgent flavors come together in this creamy maple brie and cheddar apple soup, offering an irresistible combination of sweet and savory that warms your soul. Nutritious ingredients, including fresh apples and aged cheddar, make this dish both wholesome and satisfying. Quick preparation means you can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Versatile enough to be served as a starter or main dish, this soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad, ensuring it’s a hit with everyone at the table. Guilt-free indulgence is possible, as it caters to vegetarian diets and can be easily modified to be gluten-free. Discover more comforting recipes and find your new favorites!

Creamy Maple Brie and Cheddar Apple Soup Ingredients

For the Soup

Oil – Ideal for sautéing; butter can be used for richer flavor.
Onion (1, diced) – Sweetness and depth come from this essential veggie.
Garlic (2 cloves, chopped) – Enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
Thyme (1 tsp fresh, or 1/2 tsp dried) – Brings earthy notes for a comforting taste.
Broth (2 cups) – Acts as the base flavor; chicken, vegetable, or ham broth works well.
Apple Cider (2 cups) – Use soft apple cider for natural sweetness and flavor depth.
Apples (6 large, peeled, cored, and diced) – The star ingredient; try Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith for best results.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Infuses a sweet, aromatic touch into the mix.
Maple Syrup (2 tbsp or brown sugar) – Elevates the sweetness, making it a true creamy maple brie and cheddar apple soup.
Aged/Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Adds a creamy, tangy texture that balances well with sweetness.
Brie (8 oz, sliced) – Delivers luscious creaminess; soft cheeses can be a delightful substitute.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for tasting and elevating the dish.

For the Granola Topping

Unsalted Butter (6 tbsp) – Binds the granola topping together effectively.
Flour (1/4 cup) – Provides a necessary structure to the topping.
Brown Sugar (1/4 cup) – Contributes sweetness and a lovely caramel flavor.
Salt (1/4 tsp) – Helps enhance the other flavors present.
Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Gives a warm, spicy aroma that’s perfect for cozy nights.
Old Fashioned Rolled Oats (1 cup) – Provides that crunchy texture everyone loves.
Walnuts (1 cup, coarsely chopped) – Adds another layer of nuttiness and crunch to the topping.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Maple Brie and Cheddar Apple Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a splash of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes until it becomes translucent and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the onion is softened, add the chopped garlic and thyme, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant, which will create a lovely base for your creamy maple brie and cheddar apple soup.

Step 2: Combine the Broth and Cider
Pour in the broth and apple cider, and then add the diced apples to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring gently to combine all ingredients. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the apples for about 20 minutes until they are tender and have released their natural sweetness, enhancing the flavor of the soup.

Step 3: Add Dairy and Seasonings
After the apples are tender, stir in the vanilla extract, maple syrup, shredded cheddar, and sliced brie. Keep the pot over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the cheeses have melted completely and created a creamy texture. The combination of the brie and cheddar will give your soup its signature richness, making it extra comforting.

Step 4: Blend for Smoothness
Once the cheeses have melted into the soup, carefully transfer the mixture to a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes. If you prefer a silkier texture, strain the soup through a fine mesh sieve to remove any bits. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring you achieve that perfect balance of flavors in your creamy maple brie and cheddar apple soup.

Step 5: Prepare the Crunchy Topping
In a separate bowl, pulse the unsalted butter, flour, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon together until the mixture is grainy. Then, fold in the rolled oats and coarsely chopped walnuts by hand, creating a delicious granola topping that will add texture to your soup.

Step 6: Bake the Granola Topping
Spread the granola mixture evenly on a baking sheet and bake it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-20 minutes. Stir every 5-10 minutes to ensure even browning. The granola should become golden and crisp, providing a delightful crunch atop your creamy maple brie and cheddar apple soup.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into warm bowls and sprinkle generously with the baked granola topping. This delightful contrast of creamy soup with crunchy topping creates a comforting bowl perfect for cozy nights. Serve with crusty bread or a light salad to round out the meal, and savor each spoonful of this heartwarming dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Maple Brie and Cheddar Apple Soup can easily become your go-to for meal prep! You can chop the onions, garlic, and apples up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Additionally, the crunchy walnut oat crumble can be baked ahead of time and stored in a sealed container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply follow the soup instructions, adding the prepared ingredients to the pot. Finish by blending the soup and stirring in the melted cheeses right before serving, ensuring a warm and creamy texture that feels just like a hug on a chilly evening!

What to Serve with Creamy Maple Brie and Cheddar Apple Soup

Warm your heart and table with delightful accompaniments that elevate the cozy experience of this delicious soup.

Crusty Bread:
A slice of freshly baked bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy goodness, soaking up every delightful spoonful.
Mixed Green Salad:
A bright salad with tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich soup, balancing flavors beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables:
Seasonal roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots bring an earthy depth that enhances the overall meal.
Cheese Platter:
Pairing with a selection of cheeses, including your favorites from the soup, creates a lovely grazing board, inviting everyone to savor together.
Apple Cider:
A warm glass of spiced apple cider complements the soup’s flavors perfectly, making each sip a cozy delight.
Pumpkin Pie:
End the meal on a sweet note with a slice of pumpkin pie, its spiced filling echoing the warmth of the soup.
Savory Quiche:
A slice of quiche filled with seasonal vegetables adds protein and creates a satisfying brunch-worthy combination alongside the soup.

These pairings will wonderfully enhance the experience of your creamy maple brie and cheddar apple soup, making it a memorable meal.

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Maple Brie and Cheddar Apple Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, ensure the soup is cooled completely before sealing.

Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Microwaving is also an option, but may alter the soup’s creamy texture.

Tip: When storing, consider labeling the container with the date to keep track of freshness for your creamy maple brie and cheddar apple soup.

Expert Tips for Creamy Maple Brie and Cheddar Apple Soup

Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality apples and cheese. The better your ingredients, the tastier your creamy maple brie and cheddar apple soup will be!
Avoid Overcooking Apples: Simmer just until apples are tender to retain some freshness and flavor. Overcooking can lead to mushiness.
Strain for Smoothness: For a velvety texture, consider straining the soup after blending to remove any pesky brie rind bits.
Mix Cheeses Wisely: Combining aged cheddar with brie creates a rich flavor; don’t skip this step for the best creamy result!
Customize Your Topping: Feel free to swap in crispy bacon instead of granola for a savory twist, enhancing the soup’s depth!

Creamy Maple Brie and Cheddar Apple Soup Variations

Embrace your culinary creativity and make this delicious soup your own with a few simple tweaks!

Bacon-Lovers Delight: Replace granola with crispy crumbled bacon for a savory crunch that complements the sweet and creamy flavors beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to infuse some gentle heat into your creamy maple brie and cheddar apple soup. It elevates the dish to new heights!
Hearty and Cozy: Swap out some broth for a dark beer or extra apple cider. This twist will deepen the soup’s flavor and add a rich undertone that warms you from the inside out.
Mustard Mingle: Stir in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for an unexpected tang that balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile. It’s a subtle yet effective addition!
Creamy Vegan Option: For a plant-based twist, substitute dairy cheese with vegan cheese and use coconut milk in place of regular milk or cream. Your creamy soup will still be luxuriously smooth and satisfying!
Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or sage in place of thyme for a unique aromatic twist. These herbs can bring a delightful earthiness that rounds out the flavor perfectly.
Nutty Flavor Boost: Toss in some almond slivers alongside the walnuts for extra crunch and a different nuttiness. Textural layers add interest and visual appeal to your dish!
Fruity Fun: Include diced pears along with the apples for a different sweet dimension. This fruit swap creates a lovely sweetness that pairs perfectly with the warmth of cheddar and brie.

Feel free to explore these variations, and don’t forget to check out more creative topping ideas or tips for a delicious vegetarian meal like this. With each tweak, your creamy maple brie and cheddar apple soup could lead to a new family favorite!

Creamy Maple Brie and Cheddar Apple Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of apples work best for this soup?
I recommend using Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith apples. These varieties provide a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, enhancing the flavor profile of your creamy maple brie and cheddar apple soup.

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Reheating is simple; just warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring gently to preserve its creamy texture.

Can I freeze my creamy maple brie and cheddar apple soup?
Absolutely! You can freeze this soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just ensure it is completely cooled, then pour it into containers, leaving a little space at the top as it will expand when frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove for the best results.

What if my soup is too thick or thin?
If your soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency, stirring frequently. If it’s too thin, you can simmer it on low heat to reduce it slightly, or blend in a few cooked apples to naturally thicken the soup while enhancing the flavor.

Is this soup suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! You can make this creamy maple brie and cheddar apple soup gluten-free by simply omitting the granola topping or using certified gluten-free oats. The soup itself is naturally gluten-free, so you’re all set for a cozy, comforting meal.

Can I substitute ingredients if I have dietary restrictions?
Definitely! Instead of apple cider, you can use a combination of apple juice and a splash of vinegar for acidity. For a lower-fat option, swap out the brie for another soft cheese or use less cheese overall. Don’t hesitate to adapt the recipe to fit your dietary needs and preferences!