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!

**Currently Out of Stock. Stay Tuned for More! 

We're serving up a whole new level of indulgence at the Apple Barrel Farm Market - say hello to our brand-new Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cups!

Crafted to delight every chocolate and fruit lover's dream, these luxurious treats feature juicy, local strawberries dipped and drizzled in premium milk chocolate and pistachio cream. Each cup is a perfect balance of rich, smooth decadence and sweet berry freshness - a dessert you'll want all to yourself (though we won't judge if you share!).

Whether you're looking for a unique summer treat, a sweet gift, or just a reason to stop by the market, these cups are only $15 each and worth every delicious bite.

Available Daily, 10 AM - 4 PM (while supplies last)

Don't miss your chance to experience this over-the-top, sweet summer splurge. Grab yours before they're gone - and trust us, they go fast!

Frozen Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Flash Sale!

Starting Saturday, June 14th, we’re celebrating strawberry season the best way we know how—with a sweet deal on our 9" frozen Strawberry Rhubarb Pies!

Offer while supplies last, get them for 50% off! (regularly $15.99)

Hand made with sun-ripened strawberries, tart rhubarb, and our signature flaky crust, these frozen pies are perfect for baking fresh at home whenever the craving strikes.

Offer valid in-store at the Apple Barrel Farm Market. Offer while supplies last. Cannot be combined with any other offers. No cash value/no cash back.

Stock your freezer, impress your guests, or just treat yourself. This offer won’t last long!

Go Beyond Chips & Dip with These Sweet, Spicy & Smoky Ideas

Salsa isn't just a sidekick for tortilla chips - it's a bold, versatile ingredient that can transform your meals from basic to brilliant. And when you go beyond the traditional tomato variety, the possibilities get even more exciting.

Here are 8 delicious ways to cook with unique salsa flavors like Bacon, Apple, Strawberry, Fire Roasted Tomato, and more!

1. Bacon Salsa Breakfast Hash

Salsa used: Bacon Salsa

Dice up potatoes, peppers, and onions and pan-fry until crispy. Stir in a few generous spoonfuls of bacon salsa and top with fried or scrambled eggs. It's smoky, savory, and perfect for brunch.

2. Apple Salsa Pork Chops

Salsa used: Apple Salsa or Flamin' Apple Salsa

Sear thick-cut port chops, then spoon apple salsa over the top and finish in the oven until juicy. The sweet heat of apple salsa is the perfect pairing for pork.

3. Strawberry Salsa Chicken Wraps

Salsa used: Strawberry Salsa

Grill or roast chicken breasts, slice thinly, and wrap in a tortilla with mixed greens, goat cheese, and a spoonful of strawberry salsa. It's fresh, fruity, and totally unexpected.

4. Fire Roasted Taco Bowls

Salsa used: Fire Roasted Tomato Salsa

Cook up seasoned ground beef or plant-based crumbles and mix with fire roasted salsa for rich, smoky flavor. Spoon over rice or lettuce, add toppings like cheese, avocado, and sour cream for the ultimate taco bowl.

5. Corn Salsa Street Corn Salad

Salsa used: Corn Salsa

Mix grilled corn kernels, chopped cilantro, cotija cheese, and a scoop of corn salsa for a quick version of Mexican street corn salad. Serve chilled as a side dish for BBQs or taco night.

6. Pineapple Mango Salsa Shrimp Tacos

Salsa used: Pineapple Mango Salsa

Toss cooked shrimp with lime juice and pineapple mango salsa, then serve in warm tortillas with shredded cabbage and a drizzle of chipotle mayo. Sweet, tangy, and tropical perfection.

7. Famin' Apple Salsa Queso Dip

Salsa used: Flamin' Apple Salsa

Add a kick to your classic queso by stirring in a few spoonfuls of flamin' apple salsa. The sweet heat pairs surprisingly well with creamy, cheesy dips for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

8. Salsa Pasta Bake

Salsa used: Your Choice!

Swap marinara for salsa in your next baked pasta dish. Stir cooked pasta with salsa, black beans, and cheese, then bake until golden and bubbling. Taco Tuesday meets Italian night.

Let Salsa Do the Work

With so many bold, sweet, smoky, and spicy varieties, salsa is one of the easiest ways to add instant flavor to your dishes. Whether you're spicing up breakfast, dinner, or party apps, flavored salsas can turn everyday recipes into something unforgettable.