The start of apple season is one of our favorite times of the year. There’s just something about the crisp air, the turning leaves, and the thought of bushels of apples waiting to be picked that feels like the official start of fall. Whether strolling through a local orchard or bringing home a big bag from the farmers market, apples are a fruit that can do it all. At Shookhill Secret, we have a few favorites that always make it into our baskets. Each variety has its own unique flavor and purpose, and we love knowing exactly what to use depending on the recipe or occasion. Fuji Apples – Sweet & Crisp Fuji apples are perfectly crisp and delightfully sweet. We like to keep these on hand for snacking—they’re great to slice and enjoy on their own or with a swipe of almond butter. They also make a wonderful addition to cheese boards, pairing beautifully with sharp cheddar, cambazola or creamy brie. Molly’s Delicious – Light & Tender Molly’s Delicious is an old-fashioned heirloom apple, and while you might not find it everywhere, it’s worth seeking out. The flavor is delicate and lightly sweet, with a tender bite. These are ideal for eating fresh or adding to a salad with walnuts and blue cheese. Honeycrisp – Juicy & Refreshing Honeycrisp apples have gained a huge fan following, and for good reason. They’re incredibly juicy, with a balance of sweetness and tartness that makes them the perfect “all-around” apple. If we had to pick one apple to eat fresh out of hand, this would be it. Granny Smith – Tart & Bold When it comes to baking, Granny Smith apples are our go-to. Their tart flavor holds up beautifully in pies, crisps, and breads. They don’t become overly sweet when baked, which makes them the perfect counterpoint to sugar and spices. Plus, their firm texture means they won’t turn mushy in the oven. Winesap – Rich & Spiced Winesap apples are a wonderful variety with a spiced, almost wine-like flavor that makes them unique. We love using these in baked goods or cooking them down for homemade applesauce. They also shine when paired with aged cheese or cured meats, making them perfect for autumn charcuterie boards. Don’t Forget the Cider Of course, apple season wouldn’t be complete without cider. Fresh-pressed cider is a fall ritual for us. Sometimes we drink it cold and refreshing, other times warmed gently with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise for a cozy treat. And let’s not forget hard cider—it’s a grown-up way to enjoy apple season with friends around the fire pit. Apple Treats We Love For us, apples aren’t just for eating fresh—they belong in all sorts of fall recipes. We are sharing our favorites : Apple cider donuts with a sugar-cinnamon coating (recipe below) Shookhill Apple bread that fills the kitchen with the sweetest aroma (link to our best recipe) Classic Old Fashioned Apple Pie, this Southern Living classic is bubbling over with cinnamon-spiced filling Apple season is short, but it’s the perfect excuse to indulge in these simple pleasures. Pick a bushel, bake something warm, pour a glass of cider, and let the season unfold.
Labor Day Weekend in the North Carolina Mountains…
One Last Nod to Summer! As we prepare to bid farewell to summer, Labor Day weekend in the North Carolina Mountains offers one last, wonderful chance to slow down, unwind, and savor everything we love about this season. Whether you’re planning a mountain getaway or hosting a relaxed backyard celebration, this long weekend is the perfect way to transition from late-summer ease into the energy of fall. Enjoy a long weekend nestled in the cool mountain air of North Carolina. The temperatures are a touch crisper, the trails a bit quieter, and the scenery? Absolutely breathtaking. One of our favorite spots to explore is Linville and the areas around Grandfather Mountain, where the mile-high swinging bridge gives you panoramic views that will make you feel on top of the world—literally. If you’re craving a peaceful waterfall hike, we recommend Linville Falls, Upper Creek Falls, Duggers Creek Falls or Waterfalls Park for a picnic. There are so many beautiful places to explore in this area. From guided tours of caverns, to day hikes and picnics there’s something for everyone in this area. We always recommend carving out time to drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. It’s a slow and scenic ride that winds through the Appalachian Highlands, offering pull-off spots to take in the view, stretch your legs or snap a photo. There’s nothing quite like sipping your morning coffee while watching the mist lift off the mountains. For those who love a bit of adventure, bring a fly rod. Fly fishing in these parts is almost meditative—especially in the early morning hours when the only sounds are the river and the breeze. Evenings are made for campfires, roasting hotdogs, and of course, s’mores. It’s simple, timeless, and somehow always feels special when you’re surrounded by nature. We like to set up a rustic picnic table, string a few lights, and end the night sharing stories and songs by the fire. So whether you’re gathering with friends, packing for a mountain escape, or just enjoying a slow moment on the porch with your favorite drink in hand, make the most of Labor Day in the North Carolina mountains. It’s the pause before the pace picks up—and we think it deserves to be celebrated in style.