10 Ways to Enjoy Apples This Fall

Nothing says autumn quite like an apple that’s sweet, crisp, tart, and juicy. Apples are naturally high in fiber, vitamin C, and various antioxidants. They are also very filling, considering their low calorie count. 

Here are 10 fresh ways to enjoy the fruit of the season this fall:

1. Baked apples: I love making baked apples in the Fall, especially when I am craving apple desserts without the fuss. Simply cut your apples into slices, drizzle them with melted butter, sprinkle cinnamon on top and bake for 20 minutes at 400 degrees! 
2. Apple salad: Top your favorite fall salad with apple slices of your choice, then sprinkle with walnuts, goat cheese, and some dried cranberries. 
3. Make apple sandwiches: Kids will love to help you make this healthy snack since it's fun to spread the nut butter and sprinkle the cinnamon. Simply slice a large apple in ½ inch slices across the apple, remove any seeds and slather with peanut butter! 
4. Lightened up apple crisp: Instead of using regular sugar like most apple crisp recipes call for, use a dash of maple syrup in the filling. Also, instead of regular flour, opt for a whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content!
5. Apple muffins: Batch make apple muffins for a quick and easy on-the-go breakfast! Apple muffins have more fiber and nutrients than your typical muffin. 
6. Create an apple parfait: This is a great snack or dessert that you can prepare in advance and enjoy on the go! Loaded with protein from Greek yogurt, fruit, and healthy fats, it's a satisfying and nourishing meal prep option that you can whip up whenever the craving strikes! Simply layer diced apples, greek yogurt, nuts and granola. 
7. Apple sauce: It might surprise you that homemade applesauce is actually very easy to make, and can work with dozens of different variations. It’s as simple as boiling down the apples, then blending them into a puree. Add sugar, spices, other fruits — whatever you want!
8. Sweeten your oatmeal: Are you tired of eating bland oatmeal? Switch it up by adding in some apples! Cut up about ¼ to ½ of an apple into small pieces and using regular oats, microwave for about 30 seconds. Then add the apples (maybe some more water to the oats) and cook for another minute. Top with cinnamon and nut butter for added flavor! 
9. Apple pancakes: There's nothing like a fresh stack of pancakes on a weekend morning! Add diced apples to your batter to enhance the flavor and texture. 
10. The classic: Apples with peanut/almond butter. This is my healthy and quick go-to snack that I have almost everyday. Apples are an excellent source of fiber, while peanut butter contains protein. Eating these two foods together can help you to feel full longer, say goodbye to that mid-day energy crash!