Apples in Colorado

Fall in Colorado brings crisp mornings, golden aspens, and baskets of freshly picked apples. While Washington may be the top apple-growing state, Colorado has its own proud history of apple orchards, especially on the Western Slope around Paonia, Hotchkiss, and Cedaredge. The high-altitude climate—warm days, cool nights, and low humidity—creates apples with an intense sweetness and complex flavor. Local favorites include Honeycrisp, Jonathan, Gala, and heritage varieties like Winesap and McIntosh.

Cooking with Apples

Apples are more than just a snack; they are one of the most versatile fruits in the kitchen. Their natural sweetness and acidity balance beautifully in both sweet and savory dishes.

Savory Ideas

• Add thin slices to a turkey and cheddar sandwich
• Sauté diced apples with onions for pork chop topping
• Roast apples alongside chicken for a touch of natural sweetness
• Slice apples and add to a salad with spinach, walnuts, and goat cheese.

Sweet Ideas

Of course, Colorado apples shine in desserts.

• Warm apple crisp topped with oats and brown sugar
• Deep-dish apple pie spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg
• Bake apples filled with nuts and honey

Food Safety Tips

To keep your apples safe and fresh:

• Wash thoroughly under running water before eating or cooking
• Use a clean produce brush for firm varieties
• Prevent browning by dipping in a c

Preserving the Harvest

Colorado apples preserve beautifully, allowing you to enjoy them long after the season ends. Homemade applesauce is quick to prepare and can be frozen or canned for year-round use. When canning, always follow tested recipes from reliable sources such as the Preserve Smart or the National Center for Home Food Preservation to ensure safety. Apples are naturally high in acid, making them well-suited for water bath canning.

Apple butter, slow-cooked until thick and caramelized, is another classic. It spreads beautifully on toast, pancakes, or biscuits, and also makes a thoughtful homemade gift. Dried apple slices are a kid-friendly snack that stores well and can be made in an oven or food dehydrator.

A Seasonal Treasurer

Whether you pick them at an orchard, shop at a farmers market, or gather from a backyard tree, Colorado apples are a delicious reminder of the season. With a little creativity and attention to safe handling and preservation practices, you can enjoy apples in your meals and pantry all year long.