Cider Donut Season

Cider Donut Season

October 2, 2020

Written by Holly Perry, Project Coordinator, North of Boston CVB

There’s nothing quite like walking up to your favorite farm and getting a big whiff of freshly baked apple cider donuts. Fortunately for us in Massachusetts, cider donuts are easily accessible and make the transition from summer to autumn an exciting time. 

The North of Boston region has many wonderful farms but I am going to go over a few of my favorite places to buy apple cider donuts when the leaves turn orange. 

I grew up on the North Shore and Russell Orchards in Ipswich has always been my family’s go-to for all things fall. Since I was young, I loved visiting the barnyard animals, choosing a pumpkin, apple-picking and perusing the farm stand store inside of the big barn. The barn boasts a huge array of inventory from t-shirts and hats to homemade wine, vinegars, cook books, produce and of course a stellar bakery. My favorite part about visiting Russell Orchards has always been buying a half dozen cider donuts placed in a white paper bag, feeling the warmth in my hands and enjoying the delightful scent (and sneaking a few bites) the whole way home. Don’t forget to pick up some cider to enjoy with your donuts later. For more information on Russell Orchards, click here


Also in Ipswich, you will find the lovely Marini Farm. My favorite part about this location is how colorful the produce is when you walk into the farmstand. The Marini family has been growing some of the freshest fruits and vegetables found on the North Shore for three generations. Alongside the produce is a large bakery section where busy bakers work to keep the fresh cider donuts coming out hot and fresh. They also have an array of other baked goods such as breads, cookies, brownies and more. Don’t miss the corn maze and even the seasonal doggy maze. Starting in November there will be holiday events, and Christmas trees for sale. Click here for more information.

Cider Hill Farm in Amesbury has some of the most visually stunning grounds in the North of Boston region. There is so much to do here for the whole family such as apple picking, visiting the chickens or enjoying local fare at the onsite food truck PitchFork. Cider Hill is always keeping it fresh with new events and pop-ups like their outdoor fall market or weekend hot cider and donut bar. Click here for more information. I enjoyed a visit inside the farm store where I watched one of the bakers make the donuts. The store is filled with ciders, unique gifts, grocery items and baked goods. 

 

 

Appleton Farms sits on the Ipswich/Hamilton line and is a Trustees property. This farm has wonderful community events such as hay rides, a full moon hike and pizza picnics. The farm store is currently open for pickup only, but you can order cider donuts, fresh meats and even local seafood. Passes are required in advance – $10 per car on weekends and $5 per car on weekdays. Click here for passes. Free for trustees members.

I hope you enjoy visiting the farms as much as I do, and please don’t forget to wear your mask and practice social distancing. Have a safe and happy fall!