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Sangria Recipes for Every Occasion

Posted by :Ivy Group Developer On : November 15, 2022
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Sangria is a rich and festive drink that complements any celebration. Since it hails from sunny Spain and Portugal, you might think of it as a summertime treat. In fact, it’s a versatile beverage that can be enjoyed year-round in many delectable variations.

While the key ingredients are simply wine and fruit, you’ll find plenty of room for experimenting and adding your personal touch. Let these recipes be the inspiration you need to discover your own perfect sangria for any occasion!

Sangria Recipe Basics

Most recipes use 5 main ingredients. While you can vary each according to your taste, we’ll give you the average ratios:

  • Wine (1 bottle, 750 ml)
  • Fruit (2 cups)
  • Brandy or Orange Liqueur (1/4 to 1/2 cup)
  • Juice or Club Soda (1 cup)

What’s the final main ingredient? Time! Sangria needs time so that the fruit has the chance to release its flavor.

So how long should you let yours steep? A few recipes call for just 1 or 2 hours, most recommend that you leave it overnight, and some say 24 hours. Really there’s no wrong answer. Just know that a longer steep let the flavors mix more fully.

Red Sangria

There are endless paths to crafting a festive and refreshing red sangria recipe, and all of them lead to a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving day table. (Just imagine that vivid red pitcher set alongside the cranberries.)

You’ll begin with a fruity red such as Garnacha or Cabernet Franc—though any red you love will do—then add your choice of fresh fruit, brandy or orange liqueur, and juice. Let it steep in the fridge for up to a day, and then, voila, your beverage is ready to be savored!

Any recipe has plentiful opportunities to experiment along the way. For added fall flair, toss in a cinnamon stick before chilling. For a bevvy of bubbles, add club soda instead of juice before serving.

2021 Cabernet Franc at Chiswell Winery

Our 2021 Cabernet Franc has tasting notes of black currant and makes a lovely red sangria.

White Sangria

While sangria gets its name from its traditional rich red color—sangria means ‘bloodletting’ in Spanish and Portuguese—white sangria is just as stunning. White wine lets the fruit shine through, in both appearance and in the crisp and fruity flavor. That makes it the perfect choice for any gathering when berries, cherries, or peaches are in season.

Besides starting your white sangria recipe with a dry white wine, the process and possibilities are much the same as with a red sangria. Try out different fruits and additions to find your favorite combination, and remember that the longer you let it sit, the more flavor you’ll get.

Chiswell Wine bottle - Sauvignon Blanc

With its floral notes and crisp finish, our 2021 Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly with your chosen fruit.

Sparkling Sangria

You can always add a cup of club soda or sparkling wine to a sangria before serving. If you’re celebrating a birthday or anniversary, though—or if you just really love bubbles—why not let the sparkling wine take center stage? Food Network’s sparkling sangria recipe does just that.

So how do bubbles and steeping mix? The above recipe actually skips the hours-long steeping period. Other sparkling sangria recipes use a bottle of non-sparkling wine to steep with the fruit, then add a bottle of sparkling wine just before serving.

Chiswell Wine bottles - Sparkling Wines

Which makes a better sangria: our Sparkling Chardonnay or Sparkling Rosé? You’ll just have to try both to find out!

Rosé Sangria

What if you’re celebrating the start of summer and need the perfect drink to set out beside the grill? Or what if you’re having a BBQ and need a beverage that’s bright and refreshing to help you ring in the Fourth of July?

Then it would be the perfect time to explore a sangria with rosé wine.

The BBC offers a delicious rosé sangria recipe. We’re especially keen on one of their suggested additions: mint!

Chiswell Wine bottle - Rose 2020

Our 2020 Rosé is the perfect place to start. And maybe you’ll add in some Sparkling Rosé for an extra dose of effervescence?

Warm Sangria

If it’s cold out and you’re feeling hesitant about anything ‘chilled,’ you’ll be delighted to know there are sangria recipes especially for warming your winter bones. That makes them perfect for any gathering during the holiday season.

As an added plus, the cooking you do for a warm sangria blends the fruit and wine flavors beautifully. No need to wait while it steeps overnight! You can simmer your sangria in a sauce pan, or you can try using your slow cooker, like this warm winter sangria recipe suggests. Add in some fresh-from-the-orchard fruit, liqueur, sugar, and juice, and you’ll be good to go!

Chiswell Wine bottle - Cabernet Sauvignon 2020

With a full-bodied yet drinkable flavor profile, our 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon is the ideal base for your warm winter sipper.

Let the Festivities Begin

Every recipe can be adjusted to your taste and the ingredients on hand. Each time you come home with some fresh-picked fruit, whether apples, peaches, strawberries, or even blueberries, you can put them to good use in concocting a delicious, fruity sangria. Maybe you’ll even have to invent an occasion to celebrate your latest creation!

When you need another bottle of wine to fuel your culinary explorations, come on by to the winery. You can explore a variety of different sangria recipes by taking advantage of our 5% discount when buying three bottles of wine.

And when you find the perfect sangria recipe for your gathering, be sure to tag us on Instagram (@chiswellwinery) to let us know!

What can I do with a lot of apples?

Posted by :Kristen Dagli On : November 4, 2022
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Strolling through the apple orchard is one of our favorite things to do each year. Time seems to stand still, and we do what we can to make these special moments last as long as possible. And how do we do that? By picking as many apples as our arms can carry!

With more than a dozen types of apples ripe in the trees at the peak of picking season, there’s even more reason to keep reaching up for just a few more. Apple pickers return home to find that they have more fruit than they know what to do with. Sure, crisp apples keep for a month or two when following the best apple storage tips, but it’s more fun to find new ways to enjoy this versatile fruit!

As a rule of thumb, one pound of apples is approximately four small apples, three medium apples, or two large apples.

Consider using your abundance of apples in one of these recipes…

Apple Juice

Homemade apple juice
Photo by Jacek Dylag on Unsplash.

To attain that fresh-from-the-orchard taste in your apple juice, make it yourself! Our favorite part about this apple application: you can mix and match as many varieties as you want.

A juicer will obviously make your task easiest. However, there are still other ways to make a cup of apple juice when you’re in a pinch…

  • Peel (optional), core, and chop three to five apples.
  • Add apple pieces to a blender and mix with a half cup of water.
  • Enjoy as-is or use a cheese cloth to filter pulp.

Apple Sauce

Homemade apple sauce
Photo by Rachel Loughman on Unsplash.

Juice isn’t the only apple product best prepared at home. After tasting homemade apple sauce’s natural sweetness, you’ll never want to buy it from the supermarket again (sorry, Motts!).

Pureeing apples is one of the easiest ways to use as much fruit as possible. Before you get started, know that one pound of fresh-picked apples yields roughly one cup of apple sauce.

  • Peel (optional), core, and chop six pounds of apples.
  • Add apples to a large pot with lemon juice, one cup of apple cider from the Farm Market & Bakery, and your favorite spices.
  • Cover and cook over medium heat for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally.
  • Remove from pot and blend to a smooth consistency.
  • Seal in mason jars, chill in the fridge and enjoy.

Apple Soup

Homemade Apple Curry Soup from Martha Stewart

On the savory side of apple cooking, soup is an especially unique way to turn your pickings into a meal. Some may crave the spicy flavors from Martha Stewart’s Curried Apple Soup recipe, while others may prefer a savory Apple-Cheddar Soup with Bacon from the Food Network.

No matter what recipe you choose, the general idea is the same. If you’re an expert butternut squash soup chef, then apple soup will be a breeze! First, roast your ingredients until both the apple skin and flesh are tender enough to scoop with a spoon. Then, blend your concoction in a food processor or blender to get a creamy soup texture. Serve in your favorite mug or bowl on a chilly autumn day, and you’re good to go!

Apple Chips

Homemade apple chips
Photo by Larissa Farber on Pexels.

Apple chips are an easy snack for many reasons: they’re healthy, easy to take on-the-go, and nearly effortless to make. Plus, they’re a solid way to ensure your pickings have a longer shelf life!

Turning your apples into chips couldn’t be easier: slice thinly, sprinkle on some toppings, and bake them at 200 degrees Fahrenheit for one hour on each side. Common toppings include cinnamon and sugar, although you can be as creative as you’d like.

Apple Sugar

Homemade apple sugar
Photo by Glen Carrie on Unsplash.

You read that right… apple sugar! Fall’s favorite fruit is easily dehydrated to create a seasonal sweetener. Whether you’re adding it to your morning cup of coffee or baking it into a treat for some added flavor, this is a wonderful way to make the most of your apple supply.

You’ll need roughly four cups of pureed apples to make a cup of apple sugar.

  • Wash, core, and slice the apples into small pieces. No need to remove the skin!
  • Add the apple pieces to a food processor with a dash of water to puree. The less water you use, the quicker your apples will dehydrate.
  • Spread a thin layer of pureed apples onto a sheet and place in the dehydrator or oven at 140 degrees Fahrenheit for about 24 hours (or until crisp).
  • Remove from the dehydrator and cool.
  • Grind into sugar using a food processor.

Have these recipes left you with a hankering for some fresh-from-the-orchard apples? If you still need to go picking this season, we’ve got you covered. Visit our pick-your-own page for today’s availability!

After trying these apple recipes at home, make sure to tag our Instagram page (@chilespeachorchard) to show off your culinary creation.

Peach Salad Recipes to Try This Summer

Posted by :Kristen Dagli On : June 16, 2022
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As experienced peach farmers, we know plenty of ways to enjoy this ripe, juicy fruit. While we always enjoy a sweet treat (like Peach Cobbler Scones), we also love letting a fresh peach shine in a nourishing salad.

Quick and Easy Peach Prep

Most peach salad recipes don’t require much preparation. However, that doesn’t mean you can get off without peeling these fuzzy fruits! While peeling may feel like a difficult task, you can make quick work of it with a few simple steps:

  • Boil a large pot of water
  • Lightly score peaches with an “X”
  • Blanch peaches for two minutes
  • Place peaches in an ice bath
  • Peel the skin off – no knife required!

Of course, the peeling is well worth the effort. Peaches are known to improve heart health, digestion, eyesight, and immune system health. With so many benefits, it’s easy to enjoy them in any dish guilt-free!

Remember: if you’re going to enjoy your peaches fresh, make sure to wash them first!

Tomato Peach Salad with Ricotta from Food Network

Tomato Peach Salad with Ricotta

Picture this: it’s the peak of summer. The sun is beating down and you’re just kicking back to relax after an afternoon spent cultivating your backyard garden. It’s dinner time, but all you want to do is to munch on something refreshing. Then, Food Network’s Tomato Peach Salad with Ricotta comes to the rescue! Filled with just-picked peaches, ripe tomatoes, and earthy basil, this salad is what summer pickings are made for.

Grilled sweet corn, peach and zucchini salad edible magazine

Grilled Sweet Corn, Peach and Zucchini Salad

Sweet, salty, and smoky…must be Edible Magazine’s Grilled Sweet Corn, Peach and Zucchini Salad! This vibrant salad is full of summer’s quintessential favorites, making it the perfect addition to your next cookout spread.

Grilled peach salad with chipotle-raspberry vinaigrette from southern living

Grilled Peach Salad with Chipotle-Raspberry Vinaigrette

This Grilled Peach Salad with Chipotle-Raspberry Vinaigrette is yet another opportunity to get your fresh pickings on the grill. The grill reinforces their natural sweetness while adding a light smoky flavor, which perfectly complements the chipotle vinaigrette! Fully loaded with six ripe peaches, this salad is delightfully summery in all the right ways.

Spicy peach and avocado salad from Country Living

Spicy Peach and Avocado Salad

Pair the sweet taste of peaches with the spicy kick of Fresno chiles with Country Living’s recipe for Spicy Peach and Avocado Salad. This showstopper salad is a unique way to dress up your ripe peaches, especially after a plentiful day of picking. Their bright yellow hue looks stunning with green avocados and red chiles!

Curried Chicken and Peach Salad

If you’re far from skilled in the kitchen but still enjoy a decadent meal, Taste of Home’s Curried Chicken and Peach Salad is for you. Healthy and simple, this recipe solely requires you to take your ingredients, put them in a bowl, and enjoy!

There you go: our favorite peach salad recipes!

After trying these refreshing recipes at home, make sure to tag our Instagram page (@cartermountain) to show off your summer salad.

Still need to pick your peaches? No problem! Picking availability updates can be found on our pick-your-own fruit page.

Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe

Posted by :Kristen Dagli On : May 11, 2022
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We know countless ways to enjoy strawberries: covering them with chocolate, adding them to a garden salad, and of course, all by themselves! One thing is for sure: a homemade dessert with just-picked strawberries makes any day a memorable occasion for the whole family.

While Mother Nature has the final say, strawberry picking usually begins in late April and continues through the middle of June. Visit Chiles Peach Orchard to pick the orchard-fresh berries you need to bake this Fresh Strawberry Pie at home!

Ingredients

For the crust

  • 2 cups flour
  • 2 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2/3 cup shortening
  • 5 tbsp milk
  • 2 tbsp vodka

For the filling

  • 6 cups Chiles Peach Orchard strawberries
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 cup water
Strawberry garden party for Fresh Strawberry Pie Recipe
Did somebody say garden party? The Carter Mountain “Sunset” Sparkling Rosé is the perfect match for this fresh strawberry pie recipe!

Instructions

1. Make the pie crust mixture.

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Gather your pie crust ingredients and a large mixing bowl. Add dry ingredients (flour, sugar, and salt). Cut in cold shortening with a fork and knife until crumbly. Add wet ingredients (vodka and milk). Mix.  

2. Prepare and chill the pie crust.

Roll up your sleeves and get your hands a little messy.

Spill your pie crust mixture onto a lightly floured surface and form into a disk. Cover with plastic wrap or reusable Z wrap and refrigerate for one hour.

3. Form, chill, and bake the pie crust.

Get ready to start forming that beautiful pie crust.

Roll out your dough on a lightly floured surface until it is 1/8 in. thick. Grab your favorite Farm Market & Bakery pie plate and trim the dough to fit; we recommend cutting it to ½ in. beyond the edge of the plate.

Place the crust into the pie plate and flute the edges. Poke the base with a fork seven or eight times before refrigerating for 30 minutes. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is gold and flaky.

4. Make the strawberry mixture.

We know it’s tempting to munch on all those sweet strawberries while cooking. Try not to eat them all during the next two steps!

Mix cornstarch and water for later.

Remove the stems from one cup of your Chiles Peach Orchard strawberries and place in a small saucepan. Crush the berries, add one cup of water, and boil for three minutes. Add sugar, stir, and boil for three more minutes. Add cornstarch mixture, stir, and boil for three more minutes. Set aside to cool.

P.S. Make sure you pulled the pie crust out of the oven!

5. Add more fresh-picked strawberries.

We hope you picked enough strawberries because now is their time to shine!

Remove the stems from your remaining strawberries and place in a large mixing bowl. Mix in the cooled strawberry mixture until all the berries are covered in a glossy coating. Pour that all into your baked pie crust and, voila, you have a pie!

Want to add some pizzazz to your fresh strawberry pie? Dress it up with some fresh mint or a dollop of whipped cream.

6. Enjoy!

Now, all there’s left to do is enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends! Tag us on Instagram at @chilespeachorchard and tell us what you think.

  • Girl eating fresh strawberry pie recipe
  • Cat and Chiles Peach Orchard strawberries

How to Have a Friendsgiving You’ll Never Forget

Posted by :Kristen Dagli On : November 1, 2021
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Friendsgiving is an opportunity to gather together and celebrate those who hold a special place in your heart. It’s a special blend of old traditions and new.

Whether you are hosting or attending a celebration this year, follow these creative ideas, desserts, and activities for a Friendsgiving you’ll never forget!

Divvy Up the Duties

These days, we could all use a little stress reduction. What better way to lift the weight off your shoulders than to share the Friendsgiving responsibilities? Everyone can pitch in: hosting, decorating, bringing dessert, contributing wine, and preparing side dishes. Nothing beats a good potluck!

To really make Friendsgiving preparations a breeze, send your friends a digital signup sheet before the big event. Google Docs is a helpful resource, as everyone can collaborate to ensure every base is covered. Otherwise, your Friendsgiving may end up looking more like a dessert bar than a meal!

Save Time With Tried and True Goodies

You’ll have plenty of time to stand over a hot stove on Thanksgiving Day, so save time by stocking up on prepared items. Plus, if you do decide to cook, those ready-made treats will serve as a backup in the event of a kitchen disaster (we’ve all been there). 

Cozy fall desserts are a Thanksgiving staple. If you’re looking for the same curl up next to the fireplace feeling at your Friendsgiving, pre-order a Carter Mountain apple pie by November 24.

Fresh-baked apple pie

Prepare Homemade Dishes in Advance

If possible, start preparing your Friendsgiving contributions in advance. Nothing is worse than planning to make a stellar side dish, only to have forgotten about a doctor’s appointment and finding yourself out of time to cook. 

To take the semi-homemade route in dessert preparations, use apple cider donuts to make cider donut bread pudding!

Carter Mountain's homemade cider donut bread pudding

One important thing to consider when preparing in advance is how exactly you’re going to reheat the food for dinnertime. Consider choosing something that doesn’t have to be reheated, like roasted pumpkin seeds, cranberry sauce, or deviled eggs (remember: oven space is limited). Need the inspiration to get started on your Friendsgiving dish? We’ve got plenty of holiday cooking ideas to help you out!

Set the Scene

Harvest decor, of course, is an integral part of any Friendsgiving feast. If you’re the artistic friend in the group, here are a few ideas to kick off your decorating!

Use mini pumpkins as name cards. Write each of your pal’s names on a small pumpkin to leave at their place setting. It’s an adorably thoughtful and really easy addition to the decor.  

Get crafty with a leaf bouquet. Homemade bouquets are a cost-effective way to level up your harvest decor, all you’ll need are leaves!

Turn colorful gourds into a centerpiece. Miniature gourds come in all different sizes, shapes, and colors. Stack them in a glass vase or carefully place them in a tray for a unique and festive centerpiece!

Carter Mountain gourds in basket

Make a playlist. Music can set the scene just as well as any decorations! Do you want the evening to be relaxed or more upbeat? If you’re looking to get everyone smiling and dancing, your group’s all-time favorite throw-back jams should suffice.

Set a theme. Maybe your pals want to have a pajama party theme or dress up in ugly sweaters for the upcoming holidays. It’s your party, so go ahead and make it your own!

Relax the Rules

Usually, Friendsgiving is more casual than a traditional Thanksgiving gathering, so you can make it your own. Dress down the event by wearing cozy sweatpants. Or, deviate from a typical Thanksgiving menu with a more time-friendly course than a full-sized turkey. Nobody wants to fuss about cooking a whole ginormous bird twice in one year!

If you’re experimenting with a new appetizer or side course at your big Thanksgiving dinner, test the waters with your pals! One thing’s for sure: they’ll give you honest feedback. The most important thing is the time you share together, food flops and all.

Plan Activities to Bring Everyone Together

Friendsgiving is more than a meal; it’s a time to pause and celebrate your close-knit community. It’s the perfect opportunity to do something interactive where everyone can focus on what’s important: gathering together. 

Artistic activities are always enjoyable for crafty friend groups. To put a creative twist on pumpkin decorating, consider painting pumpkins together. Not only is pumpkin painting a fun activity to share with one another, but it’s also a good way to take the joy of the event home with you! 

Carter Mountain checkers board
It’s apples versus donuts in our Logo Checker Board!

If your pals aren’t artistic, no worries; there are plenty more ways to savor your time together.  Our personal favorites are working on a challenging puzzle, playing flag football, and volunteering at the local food bank or animal shelter.

Capture the Moment

Commemorative photos are the key to making sure that your Friendsgiving is unforgettable. Taking plenty of photos throughout the meal helps savor the small moments, from a funny joke shared to taste-testing the pie selection. 

To take the photography up another notch, stage a group photo that becomes a tradition every year. Try frolicking in piles of leaves, or better yet, posing with the beautiful food that you brought for the meal! Setting up a “photo booth” with a camera, silly props, and a festive background is another wonderful way to get some fun shots!

When you’re ready to prep for this year’s Friendsgiving, visit our Country Store & Bakery in-person or shop online for all of your fall favorites!

There are plenty of different ways to celebrate your chosen family around the holidays, and that’s what makes Friendsgiving so special. 

In our many years of welcoming visitors to the orchard, we’ve witnessed the magic of families and friends gathering together to celebrate the seasons. Here’s to many more years of tradition, both old and new!

Friends posing with apple cutout
@classyseoul
Friends posing with pumpkins
@mnrepasky14
@perfectlyridiculous
Friends pretending to eat an apple
@RickyDiaz
Apple of their eyes
@rosemarygirard
Friends with matching hats
@samanthabroughman

5 Roasted Pumpkin Seed Seasonings to Try this Fall

Posted by :Kristen Dagli On : October 1, 2021
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Our cozy corner of Crozet is festive as ever with all things fall, including ready-picked and pick-your-own pumpkins.

Whether you enjoy using pumpkins for crafting spooky jack-o-lanterns, baking seasonal desserts, or simply sprucing up your outdoor decor, there are plenty of ways to use the fruit’s hearty exterior. However you choose to enjoy pumpkins this year, don’t miss out on the crunchy goodness inside!

With their inherently salty taste, roasted pumpkin seeds are a tasty grab-and-go snack. Plus, they pack a healthy punch with loads of valuable nutrients. Even better, roasting pumpkin seeds reduces waste by transforming the often-discarded seeds into a versatile nibble, salad fixing, or soup topper!

Picking the Perfect Pumpkin

Pumpkin picking is one of our favorite fall activities. It’s hard not to smile while walking to-and-fro in the pumpkin patch to find the most perfect pumpkin. After going to such lengths to choose the pumpkin, why not make the most of it?

Have no fear—the quest for edible pumpkin seeds won’t limit your pumpkin picking options. Both carving pumpkins and pie pumpkins have plenty of seeds just waiting to be turned into something delicious. No matter what type of pumpkin is calling your name, you’ll be able to roast its seeds.

Pumpkin patch with orange and white pumpkins

Roasting Pumpkin Seeds

Roasting pumpkin seeds is accessible to cooks of all skill levels. In fact, all you have to do is pay attention to three important factors: heating, cleaning, and cooling. 

  • Roast at a low temperature. Bake at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 40 minutes to dry out your pumpkin seeds without burning them.
  • Clean the pumpkin seeds. Pumpkin guts may be edible, but they’ll keep your seeds from becoming nice and crisp while roasting. Remove as much of the pumpkin flesh as possible and let them dry before putting your soon-to-be snack in the oven!
  • Use parchment paper. No one wants burnt, soggy, or rubbery pumpkin seeds. Luckily, parchment paper is here to the rescue! Parchment paper ensures that your pumpkin seeds come out just right.
  • Let the seeds cool. Have you ever pulled cookies out of the oven and thought that they were too soft, only to have them cool to the perfect consistency? The same goes for pumpkin seeds! Trust the process and pull your seeds from the oven after 40 minutes—they’ll harden as they cool down.

Adding Finger-licking Seasonings

Dill pickle roasted pumpkin seeds

Dill Pickle Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Are you a real pickle-lover if you haven’t tried dill pickle roasted pumpkin seeds? This seasoning recipe from Wholefully turns pumpkin seeds into a crispy version of your favorite pickle. 

Cinnamon toast pumpkin seeds

Cinnamon Toast Pumpkin Seeds

We get it: pumpkin carving brings candy top-of-mind. To satisfy your sweet cravings without dipping into the trick-or-treating stash, bake a batch of AllRecipe’s cinnamon toast pumpkin seeds!

Garlic parmesan pumpkin seeds

Garlic Parmesan Pumpkin Seeds

Ah, garlic and parmesan: a pair as old as time. If you’re obsessed with a certain restaurant chain’s unlimited breadsticks (you know the one), then we’ve got you covered. Indulge in your favorite garlic bread flavor with these Delish garlic parmesan pumpkin seeds.

Sriracha roasted pumpkin seeds

Sriracha-Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Crunchy, spicy, and made from one of the world’s favorite condiments. That’s right, we’re talking about Food & Wine’s sriracha-roasted pumpkin seeds. This seasoning is the go-to for anyone who loves a nice flavor kick.

Food network pizza seasoning

Pizza Pumpkin Seeds

Need we say more? Food Network has made all of our snack dreams come true with these savory pumpkin seeds, dressed for success in a balanced mix of garlic, parmesan, and tomato paste.

Are you hungry yet? C’mon out to our Crozet orchard to pick pumpkins for your own batch of roasted pumpkin seeds! Pumpkin availability can be found on our pick-your-own fruit page.

Your Guide to Hosting the Ultimate Summer Barbecue

Posted by :Kristen Dagli On : June 25, 2021
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You already know that there’s nothing we love more than being outside, and there are few better ways to enjoy the outdoors than a good ol’ fashioned summer barbecue!

Without further ado, here are our tips to plan the best, stress-free barbecue this summer.

Prepare in advance

The early bird gets the worm, and the same goes for barbecue hosts! Whether this is your first or fiftieth barbecue, it’s important to start preparing in advance. We probably don’t need to remind you to start marinating the meat for your main course as soon as possible (but if we do, here’s your sign). 

Barbecue sauces available at Carter Mountain Country Store

By preparing everything in advance, it’s easy to focus on enjoying yourself once the gathering begins. This means checking and double checking your shopping list to make sure that you have propane, napkins, and everything in between!

To avoid a big hassle come dinnertime, we recommend setting up your food buffet-style with a toppings station. Luckily, we’ve got you covered with a variety of savory barbecue sauces!

Save time and effort with premade sides

Pickled chow chow, asparagus, beets, and bread and butter pickles

Barbecues may include lots of delicious food, but that doesn’t mean that you have to prepare everything yourself. Turn your barbecue into a potluck by encouraging guests to bring a side dish of their choice. When it comes to food, the more the merrier!

To take even more of the heavy lifting out of your barbecue prep, stop by our Country Store to pick up delicious premade sides like salsa and pickles. Whether you like your sides crunchy, salty, tangy, or spicy, there’s a side for every palate. Yum!

Set the scene

USA Proud apron at Carter Mountain Country Store

The one thing that makes an occasion feel extra festive? Decorations! For this year’s Independence Day barbecues, we’ve got plenty of red, white, and blue aprons and other accessories to have the ultimate patriotic celebration.

If your event is likely to go into the evening, consider decorative string lights or tiki torches for festive lighting. This way, no one will be scrambling at the last minute to move inside or get lights on.

Provide comfortable seating

Comfortable outdoor seating for summer barbecues

Are you responsible for all the grilling at your barbecue? While the resident grillmaster may be standing up for the majority of the event, that doesn’t mean that everyone else wants—or is able—to stand for that long.

Add some comfortable seating to the gathering space so that everyone can take a load off and enjoy the event. After all, summer is about rest and relaxation!

Remember the games

Checkers, blow football, paper planes, and other games from Country Store

Games aren’t just for kids! Nothing breaks the ice—especially after so many months without gathering together—like a couple of games. Games are fun for younger barbecue guests, and even better for the young at heart.

Attending a barbecue? Don’t forget a hostess gift!

Carter Mountain Wine in vineyard

If you’re attending, rather than hosting, a barbecue, don’t show up empty-handed! Whether it’s a bouquet of flowers, a bottle of Carter Mountain Wine, or a homemade dessert made from fresh-picked peaches, the host will appreciate the gesture.

There you have it: our best tips and tricks to take stress out of summer barbecue planning. If it looks like you’re missing something for your well-deserved barbecue, we’ve got you covered: visit our Country Store in-person or shop online for all of your grilling and party needs!

Blueberry Dessert Recipes to Try This Summer

Posted by :Kristen Dagli On : June 11, 2021
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Try these unique blueberry dessert recipes to share a taste of summer with family and friends at your next get-together!

Still need to pick your blueberries? No problem! Visit our learn about blueberries page for everything you need to know about picking, keeping, and freezing blueberries. Picking availability updates can be found on our pick-your-own fruit page.

Baking with Blueberries

When baking with ripe, in-season blueberries, we love to make the berries the star. These nutrient dense berries are a great source of fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Manganese, and of course, antioxidants. With so many health benefits, why not capitalize on blueberries’ natural sweetness and take the guilt out of dessert?

Frozen berries considerably lower the temperature of baking mixtures and yield unpredictable results. On the other hand, fresh-from-the-orchard blueberries are ready at a moment’s notice to add to your favorite blueberry dessert recipes, no second-guessing required.

Blueberry Lemon Trifle recipe from Taste of Home

Blueberry Lemon Trifle

To preserve the delicious taste of orchard-grown blueberries, try Taste of Home’s Blueberry Lemon Trifle. This refreshing showstopper is beautiful and easy to prepare, making it the perfect dessert to star in your next barbeque!

Peach and blueberry cobbler recipe from Southern Kitchen

Peach and Blueberry Cobbler

For a naturally flavorful dessert with classic Southern flair, try Southern Kitchen’s Peach and Blueberry Cobbler. This simple and belly-filling recipe is a summer classic that includes fresh-picked blueberries and peaches! 

Want to take some of the heavy lifting out of your baking? Use our Biscuit Short Cake mix to make your cobbler crust, available at our Farm Market & Bakery (psst…it only takes 15 minutes to bake!).

Blueberry and Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Muffins recipe from Better Homes & Gardens

Blueberry and Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Muffins

Everything tastes better in muffin form! Better Homes & Gardens’ Blueberry and Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Muffins are great for a sweet brunch, tasty dessert, or as a thoughtful housewarming gift.

Red, White, and Blueberry filled cupcakes recipe from Southern Living

Red, White, and Blueberry-Filled Cupcakes

This Independence Day, show America a little love with Southern Living’s Red, White, and Blueberry-Filled Cupcakes. With cream cheese icing and a sweet berry center, these celebratory cupcakes are as patriotic as the evening’s fireworks! 

In need of preserves to finish the recipe? We have you covered: pick up a jar of strawberry preserves from our Farm Market & Bakery for your cupcake filling!

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars recipe from Food Network

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

Cheesecake is often known as one of the more difficult desserts to bake. Luckily, Food Network’s Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bar recipe makes this tasty treat accessible to bakers of all skill levels.

There you have it: our favorite blueberry dessert recipes! Try them out at home and make sure to tag our Instagram page (@chilespeachorchard) to show off the final result. Happy baking!

Cider Donut Bread Pudding Recipe

Posted by :Ivy Group Developer On : March 25, 2021
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We’ve taken our famous apple cider donuts to the next level with this cider donut bread pudding. Easy to make and sinfully delicious, this recipe is perfect for satisfying the sweet tooth of any hungry crowd. Visit Carter Mountain Orchard for the apple cider donuts and apples you need to whip this recipe up at home.

Ingredients

For the bread pudding

  • 12 Chiles Family Orchards apple cider donuts
  • 2 apples (Granny Smith and Fuji work well)
  • 4 eggs
  • 1.5 cups whole milk
  • 1.5 cups heavy cream
  • 2 tsp vanilla
  • 2 tsp cinnamon
  • 4 tsp butter, cut into cubes (for topping)
  • sugar (for topping)

For the glaze

  • 1/2 tsp vanilla
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
Carter Mountain Orchard's recipe for apple cider donut bread pudding
Our doggy-decorated spatula, branded mason jar mug, and vintage-inspired tea towels make cute cooking accessories and are also available in our Country Store.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

1. Tear the cider donuts into bite-sized pieces.

If you’ve been looking for a way to use day-old donuts, this is it. Stale donuts soak up the wet ingredients better than fresh donuts, giving you a moist bread pudding.

When ripping up the donuts, aim for one-inch pieces.

2. Chop the apples into small pieces.

When baking with apples, choose a variety that will keep its structure. We recommend Granny Smith or Fuji for this recipe.

Peel and cut the apples into slightly smaller than bite-sized pieces.

Combine the donut and apple pieces in a large mixing bowl.

Read our apple profiles guide for flavors and recommended uses for different apple varieties.

3. Mix the wet ingredients.

Whisk together the heavy cream, milk, cinnamon, vanilla, and eggs.

4. Prepare and fill the baking dish.

Choose a baking dish that leaves about an inch of space at the top. We like the look of a large, deep round dish but a 13×9 inch pan with high walls would also work.

Spray the baking dish with cooking spray.

Fill the prepared dish with the chopped apples and donuts. Slowly pour in the wet ingredients. Allow this mixture to soak for about 20 minutes.

5. Top with butter and sugar.

Just when you thought this dish couldn’t get any more decadent, we bring butter and sugar to the party.

Cut the butter into small—about 1/4 inch works well—cubes and dots across the top. Then, evenly sprinkle over some cinnamon sugar.

6. Bake for 40-45 minutes.

In a 350 degree oven, bake the cider donut bread pudding until a tester comes out clean.

Baking time will vary by the size of your dish; for example, deeper containers may take longer to cook completely, so check your bread pudding often after the 35-minute mark.

7. Prepare the glaze.

This dish was never going to be healthy: embrace the indulgence by topping the bread pudding with a glaze.

While the bread pudding bakes, whisk up the glaze using vanilla, milk, and powdered sugar. Look for the perfect drizzling consistency: if the glaze looks a little thin, add more powdered sugar.

Try experimenting with different glaze flavors! Apple cider, maple syrup, and bourbon all make delicious additions.

8. Drizzle with glaze and serve.

Bread pudding is a dish best served warm. Top with the glaze, snap some pics for the Insta (tag us, we’re @cartermountain!), and enjoy with family and friends.

Craving this dish but don’t have time to bake? Our homemade apple cider donut bread pudding is available for sale in the Country Store.

Holiday Cooking with Apples

Posted by :Ivy Group Developer On : December 11, 2020
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Apples pair beautifully with classic holiday flavors such as cinnamon, maple, and pecan. To prepare memorable, delicious holiday meals, use locally-grown apples and these recipes.

For recommendations on which apple varieties to use for cooking versus snacking, check out our apple profiles guide.

Breakfast

It’s Christmas morning and what’s that festive smell? Apples and cinnamon, of course!

Apple Danish Braid
Apple Cinnamon French Toast
Apple, Sausage & Smoked Cheddar Breakfast Casserole

Alternatively, our apple cider donuts are perfect for special occasions or breakfast any day. Freeze and reheat them for maximum freshness!

Chiles Warm Apple Cider Donut

Appetizers and Sides

Whether served with melty, buttery brie, pureed into soup, or tossed with a salad for extra crunch, apples lend a sweet touch to any side dish.

Baked Brie with Caramelized Apples & Spiced Praline Bacon
Apple-Butternut Squash Soup
Apple & Walnut Salad with Cider Vinaigrette

Dinner

You can’t go wrong with a traditional holiday ham with baked apples but for a new twist on the center of your holiday table, try these recipes.

Smoked Duck Breasts with Apple-brandy Caramel
Pork & Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon
Baked Ham with Honey mustard & Apples

Dessert

It’s the holidays, go ahead and have dessert. From pies to cakes to cobblers, dessert is a dish best served with apples.

Glazed Puff Pastry Apple Roses
Caramel Apple Cake
Apple-Pomegranate Cobbler

Don’t feel like baking? Grab one of our fresh-baked apple pies. A classic for a reason!

Fresh-baked apple pie

Carter Mountain…sells pies that will make you want to slap someone on the butt! They are so delicious and flaky. The mix of apples they use creates the most interesting juxtaposition of sweet and tart. I highly recommend.

Jennifer J. via Nextdoor

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P.O. Box 229
Batesville, VA 22924
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