At Lyman Orchards, we're known for our fresh-picked fruit, mouthwatering pies, and unforgettable farm experiences, but there's another local favorite you don't want to miss: Lyman's Own Cheese Spread. Crafted right here in our Apple Barrel kitchen, this creamy, flavorful spread has become a staple for snack tables, charcuterie boards, and cozy nights at home.

Freshly Made, Right at the Farm

What makes our cheese spread so special? It starts with quality ingredients, a dash of creativity, and a whole lot of love from our talented kitchen team. Every batch is made in-house to ensure the perfect balance of smooth, spreadable texture and bold, satisfying flavor. It's a farm-fresh twist on a comfort food classic.

Flavors That Change With the Seasons

Like the orchards that surround us, our cheese spread changes with the seasons. Throughout the year, you'll find both tried-and-true favorites and limited-time creations inspired by the bounty of our farm. In the fall, you might savor a peach or apple-infused spread, perfect for pairing with crisp autumn apples. During the holidays, a cranberry or herb blend brings festive flair. Spring and summer might bring lighter, garden-inspired flavors, there's always something new to discover.

Perfect for Every Occasion

Whether you're hosting friends, packing a picnic, or treating your self to a quiet afternoon snack, Lyman's Own Cheese Spread is your go-to companion. Pair it with crackers, pretzels, or fresh-baked bread. Add it to your charcuterie board alongside farm-fresh fruit. Or simply enjoy it with a spoon, we won't judge!

Small-Batch Goodness, Big Farm Flavor

Because we make our cheese spread in small batches, each container captures the essence of the season and the care that comes with a homemade product. It's more than just a snack, it's a taste of Lyman Orchards you can take home.

Stop by the Apple Barrel Farm Market to pick up your favorite flavor, or try something new. With seasonal varieties always on the horizon, there's never been a better time ti discover your next cheesy obsession.

We're proud to share that Lyman Orchards has been nominated for Best Apple Orchard in the USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards!

For more than 280 years, Lyman Orchards has been farming right here in Middlefield, Connecticut, and this year, we were honored to be named Best Pick-Your-Own Farm in Connecticut by Connecticut Magazine. Every fall, our hills come alive with visitors from far and wide picking crisp, juicy apples while taking in our scenic orchard views.

We grow over 25 varieties of apples throughout the season, from sweet Honeycrisp and Fuji to tart McIntosh and Cortland. Whether you're baking a pie, making homemade applesauce, or simply enjoying a fresh bite right in the orchard, we have the perfect apple for every taste and purpose.

Now, we have a chance to be recognized as the Best Apple Orchard in the country, but we can't do it without YOU!

Vote once per day from now through Monday, September 8th to help bring this title home to Connecticut. Every vote counts, and your support means the world to us!

Let's show the nation that the best apples grow right here at Lyman Orchards!

Learn more about Pick Your Own Apples at Lyman Orchards here. 

Move over traditional peaches - there's a new summer favorite in town, and it might just be the best peach you've ever tasted.

Donut Peaches, also called "Saturn Peaches," are small, sweet, and totally irresistible. Their squat, round shape makes them look like a donut, but don't be fooled - there's no pastry here, just a naturally delicious fruit with a flavor that's almost too good to be true. And the best part? You can pick your own fresh donut peaches right from the tree at Lyman Orchards!

What Even is a Donut Peach?

Donut peaches aren't genetically modified or man-made, they're an heirloom variety that originated in China and have been around for centuries. What makes them special?

• Naturally flat shape - No artificial engineering here! This unique shape is part of the fruit's natural growth pattern.
• Lower acidity - Unlike traditional yellow peaches, donut peaches are incredibly sweet and mild thanks to their low acid content.
• Fuzzy but smooth - While they do have some fuzz, donut peaches are softer and easier to bite into than many other varieties.
• Tiny pit, more fruit - The center pit is much smaller, which means more juicy, flavorful fruit in every bite.

A Flavor Worth the Hype

Donut peaches have a syrupy-sweet flavor with subtle floral notes, making them a favorite among peach lovers and first-timers alike. Their firm but tender flesh means they're not only delicious - they're also less messy, easier to snack on, and perfect for kids.

Whether you eat them fresh off the tree, slice them into a salad, or grill them for a summer dessert, donut peaches offer a rich, complex taste that many say is better than a standard peach. Once you try one, you'll understand the obsession.

Pick Your Own at Lyman Orchards

These delicious peaches are only available for a short window in mid-to-late July, and the crop goes fast - so don't miss your chance to pick them while they're at peak perfection!

At Lyman Orchards, you'll enjoy:

• Gorgeous orchard views while you pick
• Expert tips from our friendly farm team
• Farm-fresh treats and cold drinks at the Apple Barrel Farm Market afterward

Perfect for Families, Foodies & Summer Snackers

Because they're easy to hold, not too juicy, and naturally sweet, donut peaches are the ideal summer snack for kids - and adults can't get enough of them either. Add a few to your lunchbox, slice them over yogurt, or bake them into peach tarts for a seasonal twist on dessert.

Come Taste What All the Fuss is About

There's a reason people wait all year for donut peach season at Lyman Orchards. This small but mighty fruit packs a punch of summer sweetness that's hart to beat - and best of all, you get to pick them yourself! Can't make it to pick your own? We also sell them at the Apple Barrel Farm Market for a limited time!

Plan your visit soon - donut peaches don't last long!

Looking for a fun, hands-on activity for kids that mixes learning, discovery, and a little splash of adventure? The Apple Barrel Farm Market at Lyman Orchards is now home to an exciting Gem Mining Station - perfect for curious young explorers!

Here's how it works: Kids (and kids-at-heart!) get to sift through a bag of mining rough - aka sand - at our wooden water sluice outside the Apple Barrel main entrance. But this isn't ordinary sand, it's loaded with real gemstones just waiting to be discovered! As the water washes away the grit, colorful treasures begin to appear. It's part science, part surprise, and all fun.

Choose Your Adventure

• Small Mining Bag: $8
• Large Mining Bag: $14

Gem Mining Station is open daily at the Apple Barrel Farm Market, 9 AM - 6 PM. You can purchase your gem mining bag to enjoy right at the Apple Barrel sluice - or take it home for a sparkling discovery anytime!

Each bag contains a unique mix of gems and minerals - no two bags are exactly the same! From rose quartz and amethyst to fool's gold and obsidian, your little miner will walk away with a collection of natural treasures and a big smile.

A Peak into the Past

Gem mining might seem like a playful activity today, but it actually has deep roots in American history. In the early 1800s, adventurous prospectors flocked to the Appalachian Mountains and beyond, hoping to strike it rich. They used simple sluices to sift through riverbeds in search of precious stones. Our gem mining station is a fun nod to those early days, giving families a chance to experience the thrill of discovery in a safe and engaging way.

A Picture-Perfect Memory

The rustic mining station, nestled next to the Apple Barrel, makes for an awesome photo op. Snap a pic as your little one uncovers their favorite stone - whether it's a glittering piece of quartz or a smooth slice of jasper - and create memories you'll treasure long after the games are tucked into their take-home pouch.

So the next time you're picking your own fruit or enjoying fresh cider donuts at Lyman Orchards, grab a gem mining bag and let your kids mine their own business and find a little magic in the sand.

1. Applesauce Oatmeal Muffins

Soft, hearty muffins with warm cinnamon flavor - great for breakfast or snacks. 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Optional: 1/2 cup raisins, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375F. Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the applesauce, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla.
• In another bowl, mix flour, oats, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
• Stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in any optional add-ins if using.
• Divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups (they should be about 3/4 full).
• Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Cool for 5 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Applesauce Pancakes

Light, fluffy, and subtly sweet. Great for breakfast for brunch!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup flour
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar, sit for 5 min)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp melted butter or oil
• 1/2 tsp vanilla

Instructions:

• Whisk dry ingredients in a bowl.
• In another bowl, mix buttermilk, applesauce, egg, butter, and vanilla.
• Combine wet and dry ingredients. Don't overmix.
• Cook on a greased griddle over medium heat, flipping once bubbles form.

3. Applesauce Banana Bread

Moist, low-fat twist on a classic quick bread.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/2 cup applesauce
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Optional: 1/2 cup walnuts or chocolate chips

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350F. Grease a loaf pan.
• Combine bananas, applesauce, sugar, oil, and eggs.
• Mix in dry ingredients until just combined.
• Pour into pan and bake 50-60 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.

4. Applesauce Chicken Marinade

A sweet and savory marinade perfect for grilling or baking.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

• Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
• Pour over 4 boneless chicken breasts and marinate for at least 2 hours (or overnight).
• Grill or bake at 375F for 25-30 minutes, until cooked through.

5. Applesauce Snack Cake

An easy one-bowl cake that's moist and cozy with cinnamon flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 egg
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting or cream cheese frosting

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350F. Grease an 8x8-inch pan.
• Mix all ingredients in one bowl until smooth.
• Pour into pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, until toothpick comes out clean.
• Cool and dust with powdered sugar or frost.

Lyman Orchards is bringing New England charm and endless family-friendly activities - and now it's part of the exciting CT Season Pass network! As an included destination, pass holders can enjoy exclusive perks at Lyman Orchards this season.

What is the CT Season Pass?

• Completely Digital: no physical cards - get your pass via email or text, save it to your phone, and go.
• Temporary free offer: currently available at no cost (originally valued around $250); ideal for exploring CT's attractions

Perks & Savings

• Attractions included: everything from the Beardsley Zoo, Connecticut Science Center, Lyman Orchards, Quassy Amusement Park, and more - plus sports experiences at Hartford Wolf Pack, Hartford Athletic, and CT Sun games.
• Exclusive Discounts: examples include free child tickets with an adult and 20% off general admission

How It Works

• Sign up here
• Receive your mobile pass
• Show it at participating locations for instant perks
• No app download needed - a simple tap-and-show experience

The CT Season Pass is your digital ticket to adventure this season - offering visits, exclusive savings, and unique experiences at dozens of Connecticut spots.

Sign up now at CTSeasonPass.com while it's still free! From fresh fruit and hearty meals to live events and scenic strolls, the pass makes it all more accessible. Happy exploring!