APPLES: It’s officially apple season! Here are some popular apples in the United States, when they’re in season and the best way to use them.

-Gala: In season mid-August to late October/sweet in flavor. Best for cider or to eat raw.

-Honeycrisp: In season mid-August to late September/sweet and tart in flavor. Best for baking, cider or to eat raw.

-Empire: In season late August to mid-October/sweet in flavor. Best for baking and to eat raw.

-Jonathan: In season early September to mid-November/tart in flavor. Best for baking.

-Cortland: In season early September to mid-November/sweet in flavor. Best for baking, cider and applesauce.

-Red Delicious: In season mid-September to mid-November/sweet in flavor. Best for salads, garnish and to eat raw.

-Jonagold: In season mid-September to mid-November/sweet in flavor. Best for applesauce.

Looking for the perfect fall recipe? Try this apple pumpkin muffin recipe.

Ingredients:

2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

2 cups sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

2 eggs

1 cup canned pumpkin

1/2 cup vegetable oil

2 cups finely chopped peeled tart apples

Directions: In a large bowl, combine the first seven ingredients. In a small bowl, combine eggs, pumpkin and oil; stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Fold in apples. Fill greased or paper-lined muffin cups two-thirds full. Bake at 350° for 30-35 minutes or until muffins test done. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pan.

Nutrition Facts: 1 muffin: 221 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 24mg cholesterol, 143mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (24g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.

(recipe from http://tasteofhome.com)