How to Craft a Crisp, Apple Cider Cocktail and Make Your Home Smell Like Fall
One of my favorite places to go every season is Hartland Orchard in Markham, Virginia. They have strawberries and blueberries in the summer, sunflowers in early fall, and always have a broad selection of homemade honeys, butters, and jams.
We took our seasonal trip out to collect a few apples and search for that perfect pumpkin. We ended up coming back with a half bushel of Fuji, Granny Smith, and Stayman apples, and an apple cider slushi and fresh caramel peanut apple. It was amazing, you guys.
(Madewell chambray top; Lysse leggings; cashmere cardigan, similar here and here)
Their selection is out of this world. There are fields and fields of about 10 different apple varieties. Better yet, it’s family-owned, and has been for years.
It’s super kid-friendly, with a bouncy trampoline and plenty of activities for the little ones.
We took home our fabulous bundle – minus a few “samples” taken on the ride back home – and I’ve got two recipes to share.
Apple Cider Bellini
You might have had warm apple cider and bourbon before. This chilled cider drink is super refreshing, especially with the subtle effervescence from the bubbles. Perfect for these not-so-fall days we’ve been having!
1 part prosecco or bubbles
2 parts apple cider
Top with sparkling water or seltzer
Garnish with sliced apple
Bonus: rim your glass with cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
Fall Potpourri
An easy way to make your house feel like fall with the smell of a fresh-baked apple pie – just without all the effort and dirty dishes.
1 peeled whole apple
3 cinnamon sticks
A few handfuls of whole cloves
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Simmering water in a small pot
Bonus: pumpkin pie spice or allspice
Set your water to simmer in a small pot. Peel the apple and gently pierce it with the cloves. Toss it into the simmering water along with the cinnamon sticks, and a healthy shake or two of the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin pie spice (you can also add allspice).
Set it and forget it – just don’t leave the house or fall asleep with it still simmering – and your home will start to smell fabulous. You can also do this with an orange, or toss in a few orange peels for good measure.
Happy fall, y’all!
