Apple Picking Fun and Apple Cider Donuts

Fun Facts About Apples

Did you know that apple picking is celebrated in the autumn season, usually in September and October? Apple trees grow best in cool climates with well-drained soil that gets plenty of sunlight.

Apples are a member of the rose family, which also includes pears, plums, cherries, and peaches. There are thousands of known apple varieties planted worldwide, with different taste, size, and color.

National Apple Harvest Festival

Apple Picking

Fall is the time to enjoy the great outdoors and apple picking is a fun activity for all ages.

Before you head out, do a little research to find an apple orchard near you. Many orchards offer a variety of apples, so you can choose the perfect ones for your taste.

Once you arrive at the orchard, take some time to walk around and admire the trees. Apple trees are beautiful, especially in the fall when the leaves are changing color.

When you're ready to start picking, choose the apples that are ripe. Ripe apples will be slightly soft when you squeeze them, and they will have a sweet smell.

Once you've picked your apples, enjoy them fresh or use them to make apple cider, pies, or other delicious treats.

Apple Cider Donuts

Apple picking is not complete without enjoying some apple cider donuts. Apple cider donuts are a delicious fall treat that is easy to make at home.

To make apple cider donuts, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup apple cider
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider, vegetable oil, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
5. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Drop the batter by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown.
7. While the donuts are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Let cool and enjoy!

Here are some additional tips for making the best apple cider donuts:

• Use fresh apple cider for the best flavor.
• Don't overmix the batter, as this will make the donuts tough.
• Bake the donuts until they are golden brown, but not too dark.
• Roll the donuts in cinnamon sugar while they are still warm, so the sugar will stick.