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Picking the Perfect Apple: Minnesota Apple Orchards and Recipes

Hey there, Minnesota foodies! 🍏 If there's one thing we love about fall, it's the abundance of juicy, flavorful apples. But finding the perfect apple isn’t just about wandering around the orchard – it’s about knowing what to look for and what to cook up once you get home. So let’s dive into the best apple picking spots and a must-try recipe that will stir delight in your kitchen!

Top Minnesota Apple Orchards

  • Afton Apple Orchard: Located in Hastings, this orchard has a great variety of apples and a family-friendly atmosphere.
  • Pine Tree Apple Orchard: Up in White Bear Lake, this spot offers hayrides and a bakery with freshly made apple treats.
  • Nestled in Waconia, you can pick your own apples and enjoy a wine tasting!

Tips for Picking the Perfect Apple

  • Look for firm apples without any blemishes.
  • Avoid any apples with soft spots or bruises.
  • Choose apples that are heavy for their size – it means they're juicy!
  • Slightly green undertones are okay but avoid overly green apples for eating.

Recipe: Classic Minnesota Apple Crisp

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups of sliced, peeled Minnesota-grown apples (try Haralson or Honeycrisp!)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice and spread them evenly in a greased 8-inch square baking dish.
  3. In another bowl, combine brown sugar, oats, flour, and ground cinnamon. Add the cold butter pieces and mix until the mixture becomes crumbly. You can use your fingers or a pastry cutter.
  4. Sprinkle the crumble mixture over the apples.
  5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.

Serving Suggestions:

Let the apple crisp cool for about 10 minutes before serving. It pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Enjoy Your Apple Picking and Baking Experience!

We hope this guide helps you find the perfect apples and that this recipe brings a touch of Minnesota warmth to your home. Happy picking and baking!