Kraft Just Dropped a Mac & Cheese That Tastes Like Apple Pie (Really!), and I Have So Many Thoughts
There’s a brand-new Kraft macaroni and cheese hitting shelves this month, and it couldn’t be more ripe for the season. The brand has been on a roll lately, releasing a Hot Honey in September and Garlic Parmesan flavors just a few weeks ago. But I’m not here to talk about those today. (You probably didn’t come to this post for that, either.) I’m here to discuss the latest launch: Kraft Mac & Cheese Apple Pie.
Apple and cheddar is a popular combination that goes back to 1800s England, when traditional fruit pies were paired with dairy (commonly cheddar). It even inspired the saying, “an apple pie without the cheese is like a kiss without the squeeze.” You don’t have to be steeped in the tradition to be excited about Kraft’s new combo. I’m certainly proof of that.
What You Should Know About the Kraft Apple Pie Mac & Cheese
Sweet meets savory in a bowl. The brand’s classic creamy mac and cheese adds a sprinkling of apple pie flavors for the ultimate seasonal mashup. It’s available for a limited time exclusively at Walmart in 7.25-ounce boxes for $1.48 starting November 3. So if you see a bright green among a sea of blue, grab two.
My Honest Review of the Kraft Apple Pie Mac & Cheese
I’ve never personally had apple pie with some cheddar, but I have had my fair share of apple slices with cheddar, and the sharpness from the cheese paired with the sweet-tart apple is just divine. But this box clearly says apple pie, not slices, so going into it I expected some additional cinnamon-y and buttery notes in addition to the tartness. So many thoughts! Best to just make it and get right in.
Similar to the classic, I boiled the pasta, added a 1/4 cup of whole milk, a bit of butter (or, if you prefer, you can use margarine instead), and the powdery cheese packet, which smelled a bit sweet and apple-y. Once everything was mixed together, it really just looked like the classic bright orange cheesy pasta that won (almost) everyone over during a recent boxed mac taste test. I went in with my fork and took a bite and WOW!
First on the taste buds was the nostalgic sharp cheddar flavor, followed by a punch of sugar (and maybe a bit of cinnamon?). The two work together surprisingly well. It’s got a tart sweetness to it, with some bits of apple, but it’s not a dessert mac and cheese by any means. Savory cheesiness is still the main flavor, but this is definitely one to try while it’s available.
This post originally appeared on The Kitchn. See it there: I Tried Kraft’s Controversial Mac & Cheese Flavor Everyone’s Talking About, and I Get Why It’s Guaranteed to Sell Out
