Can you shred apples in Vitamix?
Vitamix blenders are known for their powerful motors and ability to blend even the toughest ingredients. With the right techniques and attachments, Vitamix blenders can also shred hard foods like apples into a fine texture perfect for baking, juicing or adding to cereals and yogurt. In this article, we’ll look at how to shred apples in a Vitamix, the best containers and blades to use, and share some delicious recipes made with shredded apples.
Can You Shred Apples in a Vitamix?
Yes, you can shred apples in a Vitamix! Vitamix blenders are equipped with strong, aircraft-grade stainless steel blades that rotate at high speeds up to 240 mph. This makes them more than capable of breaking down whole apples into a shredded texture.
The key things to keep in mind when shredding apples in a Vitamix are:
- Use the correct container and blade
- Cut apples into smaller pieces before blending
- Use the tamper to press ingredients into the blades
- Blend in short bursts to avoid overprocessing
With the right techniques, you can shred apples in a Vitamix in just seconds. The apples will break down from solid pieces into a fluffy, shredded texture perfect for all kinds of recipes.
Best Vitamix Containers and Blades for Shredding Apples
To properly shred apples in a Vitamix, you’ll need a container and blade designed for processing hard foods. Here are the best options:
Dry Container
The dry container is specifically designed for grinding dry ingredients like grains, nuts and seeds. It comes with a dry blade perfect for processing harder foods:
- Narrow blade design pulls ingredients into blades
- Sharp edges grind dry ingredients
- Flat top is ideal for processing small amounts
The dry container is the best choice for shredding smaller amounts of apples in a Vitamix. It evenly shreds the apples and minimizes dough balls.
Wet Container
The classic Vitamix wet container can also shred apples when fitted with the correct blade:
- Use the wet blade for larger batches of apples
- Sharp edges cut through apples easily
- Tall container is ideal for larger volumes
When shredding apples in the wet container, be sure to use the tamper to press the apples down into the blade area. This will help achieve an even, shredded texture.
Blending Bowls
Vitamix also offers smaller blending bowls that can shred apples in single servings or smaller batches. Options include:
- 8 oz blending bowls
- 20 oz blending bowls
The smaller bowls come with mini-tampers to help process ingredients. While not ideal for large batches, they can shred a few apples at a time into an even texture.
Tips for Shredding Apples in Vitamix
Follow these tips when using your Vitamix to shred apples:
Cut into 1-2 inch pieces
Start by coring the apples and cutting them into smaller 1-2 inch chunks. This allows the Vitamix blades to grab the pieces easier. Leave the skin on for added nutrition and fiber.
Use bursts of power
Don’t run the Vitamix non-stop when shredding apples. Use short 1-2 second bursts of high speed to break down the chunks into a shredded texture. Check frequently to avoid overprocessing.
Use the tamper
The tamper helps press apple pieces down into the blade area for even shredding. Apply light pressure and move the tamper around the container as needed.
Let apples come to room temperature
Cold apples straight from the fridge can be hard for the Vitamix blades to grab. Let apples sit out for 15-30 minutes to warm up before shredding.
Consider peeling apples
Leaving the skin on adds fiber but can leave some chunks in the shredded texture. For super smooth and fine shreds, peel apples first.
Add liquid for juicing
A splash of water or juice helps the Vitamix pull apples into the blades for smooth shredding. Add just enough to assist the blending process.
Apples to Use
Nearly any apple variety can be shredded in a Vitamix. Some good options include:
| Apple | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Gala | Sweet, mellow flavor. Softer flesh shreds easily. |
| Fuji | Sweet with a little acidity. Juicy and tender texture. |
| Honeycrisp | Sweet and juicy. Holds shape when shredded. |
| Granny Smith | Tart and firm. Ideal for juicing or baking. |
Try mixing apple varieties to balance flavors and textures in recipes. Just avoid overripe apples, which will break down too much when shredded.
How to Shred Apples in Vitamix
Here is a simple step-by-step process for shredding apples in a Vitamix:
- Prep apples by cutting into 1-2 inch chunks
- Select dry or wet container with appropriate blade
- Add apple chunks to Vitamix container
- Secure lid and start on low speed
- Use tamper to press apples into blades
- Increase to high speed and blend in bursts
- Stop to check texture; repeat bursts as needed
- Store shredded apples or use immediately
It should only take 30-60 seconds to shred a few apples in a Vitamix. Warning: do not walk away while Vitamix is running. Stay close to monitor the shredding process.
How Long Will Shredded Apples Last?
Fresh shredded apples should be used quickly for maximum flavor and texture. Properly stored, they will last approximately:
- 1-2 days in the refrigerator
- 6-8 months in the freezer
To extend shelf life, store shredded apples in an airtight container to prevent oxidation. A splash of lemon or orange juice also slows browning. Frozen shredded apples are great to have on hand for baking, oatmeal, smoothies and more.
Delicious Ways to Use Shredded Apples
Here are some tasty ways to enjoy apples shredded in a Vitamix:
Healthy baked goods
Add shredded apples to muffins, breads, crisps and pies for moisture and fiber. Apples pair perfectly with fall baking spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger.
Fruit salads and parfaits
Stir shredded apples into yogurt, oatmeal and granola for a nutrition boost. Layer with other chopped fruits for colorful parfaits.
Pancake and waffle toppings
Sweet shredded apples are delicious piled on top of pancakes, waffles and French toast. Sprinkle with cinnamon or drizzle with maple syrup.
Smoothies and juices
Add shredded apples to smoothies for natural sweetness. Juice shredded apples combined with greens like kale or spinach.
Snacks and desserts
Shredded apples are tasty on their own for snacking or combined into fruit-and-nut bars. Bake into healthier crisps or apple pie filling.
Recipe Ideas
Here are a few recipe ideas that use shredded apples prepared in a Vitamix:
Apple Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies
With shredded apples, oats, cinnamon and maple syrup.
Kale Apple Green Smoothie
Kale, spinach, shredded apples, banana, Greek yogurt and apple juice.
Apple Crumble Overnight Oats
Oats soaked in milk with shredded apples and topped with streusel crumbs.
Carrot Apple Muffins
Shredded carrots and apples make these muffins super moist and flavorful.
Apple Fruit Leather
Puree shredded apples and spread like fruit roll-ups to dehydrate.
Conclusion
With the proper techniques and blades, Vitamix blenders can quickly shred apples into the perfect texture for recipes. Shredding apples in a Vitamix takes just seconds and allows you to make healthy, home-prepared foods your whole family will love. Try using shredded apples in your next baking project, smoothie or breakfast dish.