Did apple picking make it on your fall bucket list?

It’s definitely a must in the area, specially with so many local orchards to chose from. I love the hunt for the perfect apple, trying new varieties, and let’s not forget the apple cider donuts! The fun doesn’t need to stop at the orchard! Here’s a few apple recipes to help you use up your bounty since there’s only so many fresh galas you can eat in a day.

Apple Chips for Snack Time

Crisp apple varieties (Honey Crisp, Fuji, Pink Ladies) are best for this recipe.

1. Thinly slice the apples (cut out the core if preferred) and put them in a bowl of ice water and lemon for a couple of minutes.
2. Line in a parchment lined baking sheet for about 2 hours at 200 degrees F.
3. The apples will crisp as they cool.
4. For an added touch of sweetness, sprinkle with cinnamon before baking!

Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Apples

It’s a perfect side dish to grilled pork chops.

1. Cube 3 lbs of sweet potatoes, 1 lb of Granny Smith apples, 2 medium onions, and 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
2. Toss in a baking dish with 1/4 cup of honey, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
3. Bake at 350 degrees F for an hour, stirring occasionally.
4. Increase the temperature to 500 degrees F for an extra 10- 15 minutes until liquid evaporates.

Apple Crisp

This apple crisp recipe is a quick and easy alternative to apple pie. Don’t forget the ice-cream!

Apple Pie Filling

You can always make apple pie filling and freeze for later. Head on over here for the how to.

Mini Snack Apple Pies

A shareable way to use that apple pie filling.

1. Roll out a package of crescent dough, making sure to join the seams.
2. Cut into squares and lay on mini muffin tins.
3. Spoon apple pie filling on each cup.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes in a 350 degree F oven. Top with a bit of whipped cream!

Never Fail Pie Crust

If you’ve been looking for a hassle free pie recipe, look no more.

1. Blend 3 cups of flour and 1 1/3 cup of Crisco with pastry blender/cutter.
2. In a separate bowl, beat 1 egg with 5 tbsp cold water and 1 tsp vinegar.
3. Mix into flour mix until a soft dough forms.
4. Roll out between two pieces of plastic wrap.
5. Makes three crusts and freezes well.

Other quick ideas:

• Thin apple slices up the game of any grilled cheese sandwich.
• Use matchstick pieces of apples to add a little crunch and sweetness to coleslaw.
• Sub your crackers with apple slices.
• Combine apple, goat cheese, and a dash of lemon zest for a one of a kind stuffing for chicken or pork.

Enjoy your day at the orchard and in the kitchen!

!Buen provecho!

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