I’ve enjoyed quite a few apple dumplings in my life but none so quite delicious as the ones at Brookfield Orchards in North Brookfield, Mass.

The Brookfield Orchards version starts with a clear advantage by sourcing apples from its own property. What Brookfield Orchards does with the apples, however, sends this apple dumpling into a hall of fame status. They overload the baked good with apples (usually Cortland) and then add the right amount of sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg.

If that wasn’t enough, a heaping amount of vanilla ice cream is then added. Some prefer, however, ordering a big slice of Vermont cheddar cheese to accompany the apple dumpling. I am one of those people! The combination doesn’t sound good but the taste buds reveal a different story. The two together are absolutely delicious.

Of course, this sweet treat doesn’t tell the whole story of Brookfield Orchards. It is one of the premier apple-picking destinations in New England with around 80 acres of apples. While fall brings the most customers with apples, a harvest festival and snack bar, Brookfield Orchards also remains open year-round. A main draw: The fantastic, authentic country store with jams, jellies, Vermont cheeses, homemade pies, apple cider and donuts, Kettle Corn, old-fashioned hard-to-find candies, home furnishings, toys, books, vintage clothing, nostalgic pop culture memorabilia and taxidermy merchandise.

Oh, and additional good news: The apple dumplings are available year-round!

Brookfield Orchards is located at 12 Lincoln Rd. in North Brookfield, MA. Tel. 508-867-6858.

More reading:
Discovering the best apple picking destinations in New England
Getting into a traditional New England state of mind at the Salem Cross Inn restaurant in West Brookfield, Mass.
Can you guess this incredibly scenic destination in Western Massachusetts?