Calvado

N/A (Apple Brandy) Alcoholic Beverage / Spirit

Calvado Alcoholic Beverage / Spirit

At a Glance

  • Category Alcoholic Beverage / Spirit

The Forktionary Angle

"Normandy's Spirited Essence"

Definition

A French apple or pear brandy from Normandy, distilled from cider and aged in oak barrels, known for its fruity and complex profile.

Aged Minimum 2 years
Alcohol Content 40% ABV (Avg)
AOC Protected Status Yes (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Calvado are:

Apple pear oak vanilla sometimes nutty or floral

Chef’s Secret

Flambéing with Calvados adds a dramatic finish and deep caramel notes to apple tarts or pork dishes, burning off the alcohol while leaving the flavor.

Best Substitutes

Applejack

Ratio 1:1

Cognac

Ratio 1:1

Armagnac

Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Age statements (like 'VSOP' or 'XO') indicate longer aging and often higher quality.

Recipes Using Calvado

Time To Make Fruit Holiday Event Easy

Apfelkuchen With Baked Apples

This Apfelkuchen recipe, passed down from my German mother, is a game-changer! Forget other apple cakes – this one boasts a heavenly apricot glaze and is bursting with tender, baked apples. The marzipan topping (easily made using a recipe from Zaar, link provided in notes) adds an exquisite touch. Prepare to be amazed! This recipe is perfect for a cozy autumn day or any occasion when you crave a truly delicious and authentic German treat.

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Fall Cocktails Preparation 5 Ingredients Or Less

Apple Tea Hot Toddy

Warm up with this sophisticated Apple Tea Hot Toddy, a gourmet twist on a classic winter warmer! Featured in Gourmet Magazine (March 2006), this recipe combines the sweetness of reduced apple juice with the fragrant warmth of tea and a hint of Calvados. Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy nights in.

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Preparation Gifts Healthy Low Cholesterol

Apple Pie Preserves

Capture the irresistible taste of warm apple pie in every bite! This homemade Apple Pie Preserves recipe delivers the perfect blend of sweet and tart apples, spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, ready to elevate your breakfast toast, scones, or yogurt. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, these preserves are a delightful treat for the whole family.

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Fall Fruit Fall 15 Minutes Or Less

Baked Apple Hot Toddy

Warm up your winter nights with Chris Raab's (SB3 & Le Poisson Rouge, NYC) irresistible Baked Apple Hot Toddy! This cozy cocktail recipe combines the sweetness of baked apples with the warmth of brandy and Calvados, creating a comforting and sophisticated drink perfect for chilly evenings. Easy to make in just 7 minutes!

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Cuisine Puddings And Mousses 4 Hours Or Less Preparation

Apple Bread Pudding With Calvados Sauce

Elevate your dessert game with this decadent Apple Bread Pudding! Featuring perfectly caramelized apples and a rich, unforgettable Calvados sauce, this recipe is a true masterpiece. The sauce is so divine, it's almost sinful to add ice cream or cream (but feel free to indulge!). Using high-quality apples is key – their flavor will shine through in every bite. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

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Preparation Easy Pies And Tarts 4 Hours Or Less

Apple Galette With Puff Pastry

Effortlessly elegant and incredibly delicious, this Apple Galette with Puff Pastry is a game-changer! Inspired by classic apple pie and crostata, this recipe skips the fuss of homemade pastry with store-bought puff pastry for a stunning dessert that's ready in under 90 minutes. Flaky, buttery layers of puff pastry embrace sweet and tart apples, creating a rustic yet refined treat perfect for any occasion. Get ready to impress!

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Course Salads 30 Minutes Or Less Time To Make

360 Rocket Salad Arugula

This vibrant arugula salad is a flavor explosion! Toasted walnuts, crisp apple slices, and creamy cheese are tossed in a tangy apple cider vinaigrette with a hint of Calvados for an unforgettable taste. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or appetizer. Quick and easy to make in under 30 minutes!

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Fruit Course Pasta Rice And Grains 60 Minutes Or Less

Apple Chestnut Stuffing

Elevate your Thanksgiving or holiday meal with this irresistible Apple Chestnut Stuffing! Perfectly complementing turkey, chicken, or pork, this recipe boasts a delightful blend of sweet apples, earthy chestnuts, and savory herbs. Inspired by Christine Cushing, this stuffing is easy to make and delivers incredible flavor. (Note: Chestnut roasting time not included; prep them ahead!)

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Course Low Protein 4 Hours Or Less Apples

Apple Tart With Frangipane Almond Filling

Indulge in this exquisite Apple Tart featuring a luxurious frangipane almond filling – a recipe you'll want to make again and again! The buttery, nutty frangipane complements the sweet, tart apples perfectly, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. This elegant dessert is perfect for special occasions or a delightful weekend treat.

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