An apple-based supper, from butternut squash-apple soup to apple crisp (on coral plate) with whole wheat rolls (photo by TJ)

With a crop of about 30.5 million bushels of apples in 2024, Michigan orchards held onto the state’s status as second to Washington in U.S. apple production.

Michigan is third in the nation in apple growers behind Washington and New York

It’s also our largest and most valuable fruit crop— Michigan apples are sold in 32 states and 18 countries. With the abundance of this important fruit hanging around, I thought I’d try—and share—a couple of recipes I found at the Michigan Apple Committee website.

The Michigan Apple and Butternut Squash Soup was pretty and sweetly delish, and the Apple Crisp was easy and tasty, too. Add a loaf of our favorite homemade whole wheat bread and enjoy a comfort food meal ideal for a chilly evening.

If, like me on this particular day, you don’t have time to let the wheat bread rise, roll out a batch of the quick buns I found at http://www.food.com. I used the whole wheat flour that had been ground at the historic DeZwaan Windmill in the West Michigan city of Holland, making this a Pure Michigan meal. (NOTE: the DeZwaan flour is currently not being sold; plans are to bring it back for retail sale in the future.)

I think these Savory Zucchini Muffins would make a good accompaniment, too. May have to try that combo soon.

Flour stone ground at the DeZwaan Windmill, transplanted from the Netherlands to Holland, Michigan

Check out the Michigan Apple Committee website for apple facts, health benefits and more recipes.

Super Quick Whole Wheat Buns
from food.com

1 C warm water
3 T warm water
1/3 C canola oil
1/4 C sugar or 1/4 C honey
2 T yeast
1 tsp salt
1 egg, beaten
3-1/2 C whole wheat flour

Combine water, yeast, oil and sugar or honey; let rest for 15 minutes

Add salt, egg and flour to yeast mixture and mix well

Rollout 3/4 inch thick and cut into 10-12  rounds

Bake at 400-425 degrees for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned. Be careful not to overbake or they will be too dry (every oven is different!)

All stories and photos copyright Kath Usitalo unless otherwise noted.

Place rolls on cookie sheet sprayed with nonstick cooking spray