Apple Season

Hi friends, Megan K. here and I’m thrilled to my core it’s apple season.

Apple season is one of the most anticipated times of the year, as it signals the arrival of autumn and its bounty of fresh, crisp fruit. From apple orchards dotting the countryside to farmers’ markets overflowing with various apple varieties, the season brings with it not just delicious produce, but also cherished traditions and activities like apple picking, cider making, and baking pies. But what makes apple season so special, and why do apples hold such an important place to so many of us and our culture?

Apple season in the U.S. typically begins in late summer, around mid-July, and lasts through October, peaking in September. However, depending on the climate and variety of apples being grown, the season can extend into November in some regions. Cooler climates, such as those found in the northeastern and northwestern parts of the country, are particularly well-suited for apple production. States like Washington, New York, and Michigan are some of the largest apple-producing areas in the U.S.

Apples… Apples… Apples

One of the hallmarks of apple season is the incredible variety of apples available. While supermarkets often carry a limited selection, the peak harvest months bring an explosion of lesser-known heirloom varieties alongside popular commercial types. If you have the opportunity to visit a farmers’ market during apple season, you and your taste buds won’t be disappointed. Now what to look for, here are a few notable apples:

Gala: One of the earliest apples to ripen, Gala apples are small, sweet, and mildly flavored. Their thin skin and juicy flesh make them a favorite for fresh eating.
Honeycrisp: Known for its perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, Honeycrisp has a crisp texture that holds up well in salads or eaten raw.
Granny Smith: Bright green and tart, Granny Smith apples are often used in baking, especially for pies, as they retain their shape when cooked.
McIntosh: A classic New England apple, McIntosh has a soft texture and a sweet-tart flavor, making it great for applesauce and cider.
Fuji: Originally from Japan but now widely grown in the U.S., Fuji apples are sweet and crisp, ideal for snacking or adding to salads.
Cortland: A tart and crisp variety that resists browning, making it perfect for fruit salads and slicing.
Empire: A cross between Red Delicious and McIntosh, Empire apples are firm, with a sweet-tart flavor that makes them great for fresh eating or cooking.
Golden Delicious: This sweet, mellow apple is versatile, good for both eating raw and baking.

With over 100 varieties grown in the U.S., apple lovers can find a flavor, texture, and use for nearly every culinary need during the harvest season.

Apples Taste Better When They are Fresh

While apples are available year-round, apples harvested in season and locally tend to have a superior flavor. Fresh apples have higher sugar content and a crisper texture, as they are allowed to ripen fully on the tree before being picked. In contrast, apples sold out of season are often stored for long periods, which can cause them to lose some of their natural sweetness and juiciness.

Local in season apples require less transportation and storage time, which helps them maintain their flavor, nutrients, and freshness. This is why many people flock to apple orchards and farmers’ markets during apple season to enjoy the fruit at its best.

The Tradition of Apple Picking

Apple picking has become a beloved fall activity for so many and is by far one of my most favorite parts of the season. Orchards open their gates in late summer and early fall, welcoming families and individuals to pick their own apples directly from the trees. This activity is more than just a way to gather fruit; it’s an immersive experience that connects people to the land and the farming traditions that have shaped our culture's agricultural landscape.

Apple orchards are often family-owned and have been passed down through generations. In many regions, especially in the Northeast and Midwest, visiting orchards is a time-honored tradition that includes hayrides, corn mazes, and cider tastings. The joy of walking through rows of apple trees, choosing the perfect apple, and tasting one straight from the branch is one of the greatest gifts of autumn.

Cooking with Apples

The versatility of apples makes them a staple in fall cooking, whether they’re eaten raw, baked, sautéed, or even pressed into cider. Here are some popular ways to use apples during the season:

Apple Pie: Arguably the most iconic use of apples in American cuisine, apple pie is a favorite during the fall months, particularly around Thanksgiving. Varieties like Granny Smith, Cortland, and Honeycrisp are often used for their balance of sweet and tart flavors.
Apple Cider: Fresh apple cider, both non-alcoholic and hard, is a hallmark of the season. Apple pressing is often a communal event in orchard communities, and fresh cider is enjoyed warm or cold.
Baked Apples: Simple yet satisfying, baked apples are a healthy and delicious fall treat. Stuffed with nuts, raisins, and cinnamon, they capture the essence of autumn.
Apple Butter: A slow-cooked spread made from apples, sugar, and spices, apple butter is a delicious topping for toast or biscuits.
Applesauce: Whether chunky or smooth, applesauce is a simple, flavorful way to use up extra apples. It’s a favorite for both children and adults and can be flavored with cinnamon for extra warmth.
Apple Crisp: A baked dessert featuring a crumbly topping of oats, flour, sugar, and butter over sliced apples. It’s an easy and comforting fall dessert.

Johnny Appleseed

Apples have deep roots in our history and culture. Often referred to as “the apple of America’s eye,” apples have been cultivated in the U.S. since the early colonial period. Early European settlers brought apple seeds with them, and the fruit quickly became a symbol of abundance and vitality in the New World.

The story of Johnny Appleseed, a folk hero who traveled across the frontier planting apple trees, is one of the most enduring legends we all share growing up. While his real-life counterpart, John Chapman, did indeed plant apple orchards, the mythic version of his tale reflects how deeply apples are woven into our cultures identity.

Today, apples remain a symbol of health and vitality, often represented by the saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” The fruit's versatility and long history make it a staple in our homes and culture.

I Love Apples to my Core

Apple season is not just about enjoying the fruit itself; it’s a celebration of fall, family, and tradition. From picking apples at local orchards to baking pies and sipping fresh cider, the season brings people together to savor one of nature’s most perfect fruits. Whether you're biting into a crisp Honeycrisp or cooking down a batch of apples for sauce, the flavors of apple season are a reminder of the bounty and beauty of autumn.