Growing up in Ontario, apple season is a big deal around here. We’re lucky to have beautiful orchards in most townships, full of gorgeous red, green and yellow beauties. My family’s hometown is Thornbury, nestled along the shores of Georgian Bay near Blue Mountain – right in the heart of Apple Country. I loved visiting my grandparents up there this time of year. Every fall my grandfather used to bring us a bushel of apples to make all kinds of seasonal goodies.
Nowadays I get my apples from an orchard nearby or from friends and family with trees of their own. My aunt and uncle have two beautiful MacIntosh apple trees at their cottage and they invited us over to help ourselves. I came back with enough to fill my freezer with applesauce for the girls and make a few pies for Thanksgiving. I’m sharing those recipes below, along with a few more of my favourite apple recipes to enjoy this season.
A big bowl of Apple Cheddar Soup warms you up on a cool fall day. I love to pair mine with crisp crackers or a nice homemade bread for dunking.
This Cranberry Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is the perfect weekend breakfast treat and it reheats well for quick weekday breakfasts too.
Is there anything that says “fall” more than a warm slice of apple pie? My favourite is a Dutch Apple Pie – with the flaky pie crust, soft seasoned apples and crunchy oat streusel topping.
Every fall I like to stock up my freezer with jars of Homemade Applesauce, whether it’s for us to snack on or to use as an oil substitute in baking.
Any time we have a big gathering between now and Christmas, I like to make a big pot of Slow Cooker Spiced Cranberry Apple Cider. It tastes amazing and the aroma makes it feel like the holidays.
My go-to potluck dessert is a big sheet tray of squares, like these Glazed Apple Pie Bars. It makes lots for a crowd and smells amazing.
Another fun pint-size version of an all-time fav are these cute Individual Mini Mason Jar Apple Crisps, inspired by ones we had at my cousin’s wedding (at an apple orchard no less!). They’re a great make-ahead dessert or a sweet treat to pop into a lunch bag.
Looking for a little afternoon pick-me-up, or a quick dessert to hit the spot? Try an easy yet delicious Apple Crisp in a Mug.
For the ultimate does of apple season deliciousness, try making a batch of Apple Pie Ice Cream. Sweet little specks of apples and spice with a rich homemade caramel sauce drizzled over top. YUM!
I hope you find these recipes inspire you to enjoy the apple season’s bounty. Happy Harvest!
