Food Stuff

My family’s annual Christmas-tree-cutting expedition generally means tromping about a snowy hillside for hours while my dad inspects the arboreal life for minor defects. Last year, it involved two minor car accidents and a lost wedding ring (don’t ask), so this year my husband and I are heading to the tree farms at Apple Hill. The beauty of that plan is that, although we missed apple season, we can still load up on tasty apple-themed treats. There are any number of places to go, but we were tipped off recently to the sweets at Boa Vista Orchards. The orchards are big and on the touristy side, but an acquaintance said their apple doughnuts are to die for. On my visit they’d run out, but I can vouch for their turnovers, dumplings, crisp Pink Lady apples and fresh-pressed apple cider—perfect for spicing and serving hot as we admire our drama-free Christmas tree. 2952 Carson Road in Placerville, (530) 622-5522, www.boavista.com.