Apple of My Eye (& Belly!)
- The Guide's Grab Bag
- Sep 9
- 2 min read
Hi, Friends! I know, you’re thinking that maybe I’m obsessed with fruit. A few weeks ago, I dedicated The Guide Grab Bag to the peach, summer’s scrumptious, fuzzy stone fruit.
Now, it’s all about apples. I grew up in this region, and apple picking was a big part of every fall season for me. It just doesn’t feel like autumn without the annual trip to an apple orchard, where we walk through the rows of gnarly apple trees, looking for the perfect fruit to pluck and place in our bag of bounty. Apples that have already fallen to the ground are strewn around our feet, and the faint smell of fermentation lingers in the air.
Pulling the wagon filled with apples, cider, and toddlers; the long-handed apple picker with the basket on the end; running into friends in the middle of a McIntosh row…that’s what it’s all about. And, of course, you end up with pounds of the freshest, tastiest apples. Unlike their fuzzy fruit friends, apples can last a while when refrigerated, so we keep a lot on hand for snacking. Of course, I make both savory and sweet apple recipes that highlight the season, using as many varieties as I can.
Many of our regional orchards are now open for picking or purchasing- it’s such a fun and easy thing to do while you’re leaf peeping on a lovely fall day. And don’t forget the cider donuts!
What’s your favorite autumnal apple treat to eat or make around this time of year? A classic crisp or an apple pie? A tarte tatin or an apple coffee cake? Or, maybe it's roasted pork loin with caramelized apples? I want to know! Go to our Manchester Life Magazine Facebook or Instagram page and share your apple inspiration!
Pick-Your-Own Apple Orchards in Southern Vermont
For pick-your-own apples and apples for purchase across Vermont, visit The Vermont Tree Fruit Growers Association.
Pics from Mad Tom Orchard 2024
Pics from Terry’s Orchard 2025
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