It's Apple Picking Season!

Every year as the leaves start to turn colors and the air turns colder, I am reminded of a tradition from my childhood, having grown up in New York... applepicking! This is a family pasttime, and one that I love to relive annually! There are many resources available to help you find just the right orchard, your favorite kind of apples, the proper techniques and where to pick! Try this one... http://gonewengland.about.com/ for tips on states throughout New England! What to do with all of those apples once you have them? APPLESAUCE! Here's a basic but very tried and true recipe for making you own... and you can vary however you would like, with additional spices like nutmeg or allspice, or additional fall fruits and berries! Delicious every time!

Ingredients:

6 large apples
3/4 cup water
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 tsp cinnamon, or a few good shakes!


Peel, core and chop your apples. The smaller the better! Place all ingredients in saucepan and cook until tender, about 20 minutes. Using a masher, blender, or hand-held mixer, mix until smooth. Place in an airtight container and place in the refrigerator to cool, or serve warm! Enjoy!