What’s your favorite part of fall? While I love the changing colors and appreciate the cooler weather, for me the best part of fall is being able to enjoy fresh apples from local orchards. I’m always amazed at how wonderful they taste after months of buying bland supermarket varieties. And apples are as nutritious as they are delicious.

While an apple a day may not actually “keep the doctor away,” studies have shown that apples may have health benefits in regards to weight loss, cancer, heart disease, asthma, and Alzheimer’s disease. According to a chart provided by the USDA, the average unpeeled medium-sized apple provides ninety-five calories, about five grams of dietary fiber, and lots of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, while being free of saturated fat and cholesterol.

There are some 7,500 varieties of apples, about 2,500 of which are grown in the United States. The Ohio Apples website offers a list of apple varieties common to Ohio, with descriptions of the characteristics of each and whether they’re best for eating, baking, or both. I love to take advantage of the option at my local orchard to make up a peck of several different varieties instead of sticking to just one. If you’d like to find an orchard close to you, you can use this handy map of Northwest Ohio apples orchards.

Not only do apples make a perfect snack just as they are, but they can also be made into a myriad of sweet and savory dishes, from flaky pies and warm cobblers to tangy cider and creamy apple butter. Want to learn more about this delicious fruit and how to enjoy it this fall? Your Toledo Lucas County Public Library card gives you access to items in our catalog and Search Ohio, including these great resources about apples.

Learn More About Apples

Apple Varieties and Cookbooks

Apple Books For Kids

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Find Apple Recipes Online

60+ Easy and Delicious Apple Recipes to Make This Season – Country Living

52 Sweet and Savory Apple Recipes – Taste of Home

90+ Easy Apple Recipes – What to Make With Apples – Delish