More Than Pie

Apple pie, applesauce, apple cider, caramel apples, fried apples, apple crisp, apple fries, apple chips, apple juice, cinnamon apples, apple butter, apple cobbler, apple crumb cake apple tarts... the list goes on and on, much like Forrest Gump talking about all the ways to prepare shrimp. Apples are just as much a fall superfood as pumpkins, if not more. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, apples are nutritious and versatile. When stored properly, they can last for weeks, even months, making them a smart choice for families looking to stretch their grocery dollars.

Proper storage is your best friend when it comes to keeping apples long-term. Many people don't realize apples continue to ripen after they've been picked, which makes their storage a key factor in how long they last. An important factor in storing apples is the variety you've purchased. Fuji, Honeycrisp, and Granny Smith apples are examples of varieties known for their storage life. Purchasing apples from a local orchard or farmers market can also help them keep longer than apples that have already spent time in transportation and grocery displays. Before storing, inspect each apple carefully and remove any that are bruised or blemished. Even small imperfections can lead to premature spoilage.

Never wash apples when you first purchase them. It's best to wait until just before you're ready to use them. Excess moisture can speed up spoilage and shorten their storage life. If you plan to eat your apples within a few days, storing them on the countertop is perfectly fine. Apples typically last about a week at room temperature. Refrigeration can double or even quadruple that timeframe, with many varieties staying fresh for up to a month in the crisper drawer. To get the most out of your apples, consider storing them in a cool basement, root cellar, or other cool, dark location. When placed on a newspaper-lined shelf and checked regularly for signs of spoilage, some varieties can last up to three months.

Whether you choose to bake them, fry them, sauce them, juice them, or simply snack on them, apples prove that one humble fruit can provide almost endless possibilities throughout Fall!

~*Recipe of the Week*~ Easy Cinnamon Apples

3 chopped apples 2 TBSP water 1 TBSP butter 1 TBSP maple syrup ½ tsp ground cinnamon 1/8 tsp salt ¼ tsp vanilla extract

Add chopped apples and water to a skillet. Cover and cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until water is absorbed. Add the butter and stir until apples are coated. Cook another 5 minutes. Add maple syrup, cinnamon, salt and vanilla and mix well. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring regularly, until the apples reach your desired tenderness. Remove from heat and enjoy!