The quintessential autumn fruit - an apple in your lunchbox, the smell of apple pie on a fall day, or a jar of homemade applesauce. Apples are delicious, low in calories, a natural breath freshener, make a great portable snack, and often inexpensive. Today there are more than 450 apple growers in the state of California! The state currently ranks as the country’s fourth highest apple-producing state.

There are also many farmers bringing back heirloom varieties of apples like Langford, Hauer Pippin, Pink Pearl, Gravenstein, Empire, Sierra Beauty, and many more. Why? Because of their unique flavors and textures.

Some of the varieties you'll find at your local farmers' market include Honey Crisp, Gala, Fuji, Granny Smith, Arkansas Black, Braeburn, and many of the heirloom varieties. Check with your farmer to see which ones are the best for what your recipe needs!