Apple Orchards in The Maine Highlands

Apple picking is a fun fall tradition for the entire family. From August through October, Maine’s apple orchards are, literally, ripe for the picking! Many orchards in our region have turned picking apples into an event with apple cider pressing demonstrations, hayrides, corn mazes, petting zoos, and pumpkin picking.

There is nothing tastier than an apple picked fresh from a tree. They make a great snack for the kids’ lunch boxes and the list of tasty treats you can make out of apples is endless. Preserve apple pie filling and enjoy that all-American dessert all year long. Make some apple sauce to enjoy at Thanksgiving. From apple crisps to compote, you can find tons of creative recipes online and in your favorite recipe book.

Each orchard will grow different varieties of apples

Here is a list of some of the most popular varieties grown in Maine:

Cortland: Crisp and juicy with a sweet/tart flavor. Their flesh browns slowly when cut, so it’s great to use in salads, fruit displays, and the like. It’s also great for soups, baked goods, and preserves.

Empire: Crisp and juicy with a sweet/tart flavor. This apple is a cross between Red Delicious (sweet) and McIntosh (tart). Along with being a delicious snack, these apples are great baked, roasted, or sautéed.

Fortune: This sweet/tart apple has spicy undertones. This apple holds up well when baked, making it perfect for pies and tarts.

Honeycrisp: Crisp and sweet – just like its name! Because they retain their sweet flavor when cooked, this apple is great for baked goods, preserves, and sauce.

Gala: The Gala’s delicate sweetness makes the perfect for salads and sandwiches.

Gingergold: This sweet apple has a sharp flavor with a hint of spiciness. It keeps its shape well, so it’s great for canning or baked goods. Pairs well with cheddar or recipes calling for cinnamon and brown sugar.

Jerseymac: Tart and tender, these apples are great for sauces and pie (as well as eating straight from the tree).

McIntosh: This sweet, mildly tart apple is perfect for any sort of eating. Great eaten raw in salads, baked into pies or crisps, or made into apple sauce. It’s an all-around champion.