The sweet and tangy flavor of Concord grapes is a match made in heaven for anyone with a sweet tooth. Whether you’re looking to satisfy your cravings or create a show-stopping dessert, these juicy purple grapes are the perfect ingredient. In this article, we’ll dive into 19 refreshing Concord grape recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride.
From classic desserts like pie and jam to innovative twists like sorbet and popsicles, there’s something for everyone in this collection of recipes. And with their versatility and flavor profile, you can bet that these grapes will be the star of the show no matter what dish they’re in.
Concord grape jam with cinnamon
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of Concord grapes and the warm, comforting flavor of cinnamon to create a delicious jam perfect for toast, yogurt, or as a topping for pancakes or waffles.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Concord grapes
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 package (0.25 oz) powdered pectin
Instructions:
1. Rinse the grapes and remove any stems or leaves.
2. In a large pot, combine the grapes, sugar, water, and lemon juice.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add the cinnamon and stir well.
5. In a small bowl, mix the pectin with a little water to make a paste.
6. Stir the pectin mixture into the grape mixture and continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the jam has thickened.
7. Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Concord grape and goat cheese crostini
Roasted Concord Grape and Goat Cheese Crostini Recipe
Elevate your appetizer game with this sweet and savory combination of roasted Concord grapes, creamy goat cheese, and crispy baguette slices. Perfect for a wine and cheese party or a cozy evening in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Concord grapes
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss grapes with honey and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, toast baguette slices for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Top each toasted baguette slice with a spoonful of roasted grapes, crumbled goat cheese, and a sprinkle of salt.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Concord grape sorbet with mint
This sorbet recipe combines the natural sweetness of concord grapes with the cooling flavor of fresh mint, perfect for hot summer days. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create this refreshing dessert in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups concord grape juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the grape juice and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add the water and lemon juice to the mixture and stir well.
3. Muddle the mint leaves with a spoon or a mortar and pestle to release their oils and flavor.
4. Combine the mint extract with the grape mixture and stir well.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
6. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None
Concord grape pie with lattice crust
This classic American dessert is a sweet and tangy delight, featuring juicy Concord grapes baked beneath a beautiful lattice crust. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a touch of rustic charm.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen Concord grapes
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Lattice crust strips (see instructions)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine grapes, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Let sit for 15 minutes.
3. Stir in melted butter and beaten egg until well combined.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with grape mixture.
5. Roll out remaining pie crust to create lattice strips (about 1 inch wide).
6. Place lattice strips on top of filling, weaving them into a lattice pattern. Trim excess crust and crimp edges.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Concord grape juice
Make your own delicious and healthy grape juice at home using fresh Concord grapes. This recipe yields a rich, full-bodied juice with a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds Concord grapes (about 4-5 cups)
– 1 cup water
– Optional: sugar or honey to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the grapes and remove any stems or debris.
2. Crush the grapes using a fruit press, blender, or mortar and pestle to release their juice.
3. Strain the crushed grapes through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl or pot. Discard the solids.
4. Add the water to the grape juice and stir well.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding sugar or honey as needed.
6. Store the juice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None
Concord grape and brie grilled cheese
This recipe combines the sweetness of Concord grapes with the creaminess of brie cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy grilled cheese sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/4 cup of Concord grape jam
– 1/4 cup of brie cheese, sliced
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with sliced brie cheese and a spoonful of Concord grape jam.
5. Place the second slice of bread, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Concord grape clafoutis
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of France with this simple and delicious Concord grape clafoutis recipe. This sweet treat is perfect for a cozy evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Concord grapes, halved
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Add milk, eggs, and melted butter; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9-inch (23cm) baking dish or ceramic tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. Arrange grapes in a single layer on top of the batter.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
7. Remove from oven; let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Concord grape chia seed pudding
This refreshing dessert combines the sweet and tangy flavors of Concord grapes with the nutty goodness of chia seeds, making for a healthy and delicious treat. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this tasty pudding in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup Concord grape juice
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and almond milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid.
2. Add honey, Concord grape juice, vanilla extract, and salt to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
3. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None
Concord grape and rosemary focaccia
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of Concord grapes with the earthy flavor of rosemary to create a unique and delicious focaccia. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, this bread is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast
– 1 cup Concord grape jam
– 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, olive oil, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Gradually add water and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Spread the Concord grape jam over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
7. Sprinkle chopped rosemary over the jam.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Concord grape salad with walnuts and blue cheese
This refreshing salad combines the sweet-tart flavor of Concord grapes with the richness of blue cheese and crunch of walnuts. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, it’s also great as a side dish for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Concord grapes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grapes, blue cheese, and walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the grape mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and chill.
Concord grape and dark chocolate tart
This tart combines the sweetness of Concord grapes with the richness of dark chocolate, creating a unique and delicious dessert perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup Concord grape jam
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 8 ounces dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Spread Concord grape jam evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Pour melted chocolate over the grape jam and spread to the edges.
5. Brush pastry edges with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
7. Allow tart to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Concord grape popsicles
Beat the heat with these sweet and tangy Concord grape popsicles! Made with fresh grapes, sugar, and a touch of lemon juice, this recipe is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of summer.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Concord grapes
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the grapes and remove any stems or seeds.
2. In a blender or food processor, puree the grapes until smooth.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together the grape puree, sugar, water, and lemon juice until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds or small cups.
5. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Unmold and serve.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Concord grape barbecue sauce for ribs
Elevate your rib game with this unique twist on traditional barbecue sauce, featuring the sweet and tangy flavor of Concord grapes. This recipe yields a rich, fruity glaze perfect for slathering over fall-off-the-bone tender ribs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup Concord grape juice
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, Concord grape juice, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat, whisking constantly.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken for 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time:
– Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
– Brush the Concord grape barbecue sauce over ribs during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
Concord grape and almond butter smoothie
This refreshing smoothie combines the sweet and tangy flavors of Concord grapes with the creamy richness of almond butter, making it a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen Concord grapes
– 2 tablespoons almond butter
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the frozen Concord grapes, almond butter, sliced banana, and Greek yogurt.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the honey and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired by adding more honey or ice cubes.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (blending only!)
Concord grape jelly thumbprint cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are a twist on the classic thumbprint cookie, filled with a sweet and tangy Concord grape jelly surprise. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup Concord grape jelly
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in jelly and egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Use a thumb or cookie cutter to create thumbprint shapes.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Concord grape gazpacho
This refreshing soup is perfect for warm weather, combining the natural sweetness of Concord grapes with a hint of tanginess from citrus and spices. A unique twist on traditional gazpacho, this recipe is sure to become a summer favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Concord grapes, seeded and chopped
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups water or grape juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine grapes, bell pepper, cucumber, cilantro, lime juice, and smoked paprika.
2. Blend until smooth, adding water or grape juice if desired for a thinner consistency.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve cold, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (blending and chilling time included)
Concord grape and thyme roasted chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this sweet and savory recipe, featuring Concord grape juice and fragrant thyme. The result is a tender, flavorful bird that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 1/4 cup Concord grape juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together grape juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and brush the grape-herb mixture evenly over the bird.
4. Tuck thyme sprigs under the chicken’s skin or scatter them around the pan.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Concord grape bellini cocktail
Elevate your brunch game with this refreshing Concord grape bellini cocktail, perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions. This easy-to-make drink combines the sweetness of concord grapes with the elegance of champagne.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup concord grape juice
– 1/2 cup Prosecco or champagne
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Chill the concord grape juice in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
2. Fill a champagne flute with ice.
3. Pour 2-3 tablespoons of concord grape juice into the flute.
4. Top with Prosecco or champagne.
5. If desired, add 1 tablespoon of sugar to balance the sweetness.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a drink recipe!
Concord grape granita with whipped cream
Cool down on a warm day with this refreshing dessert that combines the sweetness of Concord grapes with the creaminess of whipped cream. This granita is perfect for hot summer afternoons or as a unique dessert to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Concord grape juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the grape juice, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Pour the mixture into a shallow metal pan or 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the freezer.
4. Every 30 minutes, remove the pan from the freezer and use a fork to scrape the mixture and break up any ice crystals that have formed. Repeat this process for 2-3 hours, or until the desired consistency is reached.
5. Just before serving, top with whipped cream and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (freezing time)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of Concord grapes! This article presents 19 refreshing recipes that showcase the versatility of this delicious fruit. From sweet treats like jam with cinnamon, sorbet with mint, and pie with lattice crust, to savory dishes like roasted chicken with thyme, and even a Concord grape bellini cocktail, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping dessert, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you wanting more.
