September marks the peak of apple harvest season, making it the ideal time to enjoy this versatile fruit. Whether you’re biting into a crisp Honeycrisp, baking a classic apple pie, or exploring creative ways to use apples, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate this seasonal favorite. Let’s dive into the world of apples—exploring different varieties, fun facts, and tips for picking the perfect one.
Apple Varieties: From Sweet to Tart
There are over 7,500 varieties of apples worldwide, but here are some of the most popular and widely available types to try this fall:
- Honeycrisp: Sweet, juicy, and slightly tart—perfect for snacking and baking.
- Granny Smith: Bright green and tangy, a great choice for pies or pairing with cheese.
- Fuji: Sweet and crisp, ideal for eating fresh or adding to salads.
- Gala: Mildly sweet and perfect for snacking or juicing.
- Braeburn: A balance of sweet and tart, great for baking and sauces.
- McIntosh: Soft and tart, best for making applesauce or cider.
- Pink Lady: Crisp and tangy, perfect for a fresh apple salad or an afternoon snack.
Want to learn more about apple varieties? Here are a few great resources with comprehensive guides of different apple types: Washington Apple Commission, U.S. Apple Association’s Guide to Apple Varieties, New York Apple Association
How to Pick the Perfect Apple
When you’re selecting apples at the store or orchard, follow these tips to pick the freshest and tastiest ones:
- Look for firm apples: Gently press the apple; it should feel solid with no soft spots.
- Check for smooth skin: Apples with shiny, blemish-free skin are generally fresher.
- Avoid bruises: Brown or soft spots mean the apple may be overripe.
- Smell for freshness: A ripe apple has a fresh, sweet fragrance.
- Color matters: For red apples, choose those that are fully colored. Green or yellow apples should also be vibrant, with a deep hue.
Trying picking your own bushel of apples! Or, if a bushel is too much, maybe just a peck (a quarter of a bushel, and ~10-12 pounds of apple). PickYourOwn offers a state-by-state directory to help you find local orchards for apple picking.
Creative Ways to Use Apples
Apples aren’t just for snacking! Here are some fun and unique ways to use them in your cooking and décor:
- Apple Chips: Thinly slice apples, sprinkle with cinnamon, and bake for a crispy snack.
- Caramel Apple Nachos: Slice apples and drizzle with caramel, chocolate, nuts, and coconut for a fun, sweet treat.
- Apple Butter: Cook down apples with cinnamon and sugar for a delicious spread for toast or pancakes.
- Savory Apple Slaw: Combine shredded apples with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing side dish.
- Apple Cider Sangria: Mix apple cider with white wine, sliced apples, and cinnamon sticks for a seasonal fall cocktail.
- Baked Stuffed Apples: Core apples and fill them with oats, cinnamon, and nuts, then bake for a warm, cozy dessert.
- Apple Centerpieces: Use apples as part of your fall décor—scatter them on your table or hollow them out to use as candle holders.
Fun Apple Facts
- Did you know? The average apple contains about 4 grams of fiber and is around 95 calories, making it a healthy and filling snack.
- Apples float because they are made up of 25% air!
- The science of apple picking: Apples ripen 6-10 times faster at room temperature than when refrigerated.
- “An apple a day…”—the famous saying originated in Wales in the 19th century and is based on the health benefits of apples.
- Apple symbolism: In ancient Greece, apples were associated with love and were often given as gifts to express romantic affection.
September is the perfect time to indulge in the crisp, fresh flavors of apples. Whether you’re heading to an orchard for apple picking or trying out new apple-inspired recipes, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this seasonal favorite. So, grab your favorite variety and get creative—apples are a delicious and versatile way to celebrate the harvest season!