Romance of Orchards: Valentine’s Recipes with BrixStone Apples

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Bear Lake, Michigan, BrixStone Farms stands as a beacon of sustainable agriculture and natural beauty. As an apple orchard and maple syrup operation committed to environmental stewardship, we take pride in utilizing the latest research-driven practices to produce quality fruit from our farm to your table. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, what better way to celebrate love and togetherness than by indulging in the sweet romance of orchards?

There’s something inherently romantic about baking with your significant other. The shared experience of mixing ingredients, the anticipation of watching your creation rise in the oven, and the joy of savoring the final product together create cherished memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, spending quality time with your loved one while whipping up delicious treats is a delightful way to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

Surprising your lover with a homemade dessert is also a wonderful Valentine’s Day gesture. Picture the look of delight on their face as they bite into a warm, freshly baked apple pie, made with love and care just for them. It’s a simple yet heartfelt way to express your affection and appreciation for the special person in your life. 

And what better ingredient to use in your Valentine’s Day baking than the exquisite BrixStone apples? Grown with care on our environmentally-conscious farm, BrixStone apples are bursting with flavor and goodness, making them the perfect choice for creating delectable desserts that will impress your sweetheart. Here’s a special apple pie recipe that highlights the unique qualities of BrixStone apples:

BrixStone Signature Apple Pie

Ingredients:

  • 6 BrixStone apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1 double-crust pie pastry (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • In a large bowl, combine the sliced BrixStone apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
  • Roll out half of the pie pastry and line a 9-inch pie dish with it. Trim any excess pastry hanging over the edge.
  • Spoon the apple filling into the pastry-lined pie dish, mounding it slightly in the center.
  • Dot the top of the filling with pieces of butter.
  • Roll out the remaining pie pastry and place it over the apple filling. Trim any excess pastry and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
  • Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking, or create a decorative lattice pattern if desired.
  • Brush the top crust with milk or beaten egg for a golden finish.
  • Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips, then bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
  • Allow the pie to cool for at least 1 hour before serving. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

With its tender crust and luscious apple filling infused with the natural sweetness of BrixStone apples, this signature apple pie is sure to melt hearts and create lasting memories on Valentine’s Day. So, gather your loved one, roll up your sleeves, and let the romance of orchards inspire your baking adventures this Valentine’s Day. And remember, when it comes to creating unforgettable desserts, BrixStone apples are always the perfect choice