Something about this time of year makes me think of and crave apples!

Growing up my grandma would make me the most amazing apple crisp that she paired with vanilla ice cream…the combination was nothing short of amazing. I still request the apple crisp from my grandma quite often and even in her old age she ALWAYS makes if for me and with each time it is tasting better and better. Part of the reason I think it is such a special dessert to me is because I know it is made with such love! Another favorite thing of mine in the fall are the amazing hot cider recipes you can find. Now with Pinterest you can find some really unique ideas of things to make with apples, another reason why Pinterest is my new best friend…it gives me such creative ideas that I would have never thought of on my own.

I have noticed that with the growing popularity of a s’mores buffet and other unique dessert options at events, caramel apple buffets are also getting some love and attention! There are so many great different options of toppings for caramel apple buffets: heath bars, nuts, crushed vanilla wafers, reese cups, the list of options is endless and so yummy! This is such a fun and great idea, although like with the s’mores buffet it can be messy so I highly recommend an attendant to help with the clean up.

Here are some great finds I found using apples as the main ingredient. See bottom of post for an easy and yummy dessert recipe, enjoy!

This is one of the cutest apple displays I have seen, LOVE it!!

Michelle Wamboldt of Favor Box Bakery

I love the rustic idea of using real sticks to hold the apples.

Good Housekeeping

Click below photo for the recipe!

Bite Size Apple Pies
Courtesy of: Taste of Home

Recipe courtesy of Taste of Home

1/2 c. sugar
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 pkg. (14.1 oz..} refrigerated pie crust
3 tbsp. melted butter, divided
2 medium tart apples, each cut into 8 wedges

In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon, set aside 1 Tbsp. On a lightly floured surface, unroll the pastry. Brush with  2 Tbsp. melted butter, sprinkle with remaining sugar mixture.

Cut each sheet into 8 one inch strips, about 8 in. long. Wrap one strip around each apple wedge, placing sugared side of pastry against apple.

Place on parchment paper lined baking sheet. Brush tops with melted butter and sprinkle with sugar mixture. bake at 425 for 13-15 minutes or until pastry is golden brown. Serve warm. Makes 16.