September is Apple Month, naturally. Who doesn’t think of apples—plain, caramel-topped, or otherwise—when they think about fall? (And for my fellow fall-lovers, doesn’t that word just make you giddy? It’s closer in the mirror than it appears!) Apples are one of the most delicious gifts from Mother Nature, and it’s high time we made use of them. Here are some fun ways to celebrate Apple Month!

Bake or fry some apples. Mmm, doesn’t that just sound scrumdillyumptious? I love to toss cut apples, a bit of butter, lots of cinnamon and some sugar into a skillet and create a warm, cinnamon-y scent that fills my home before the delicious dessert fills our bellies. That said, I’ve never baked apples before, so that’s what I’m going to do this month. There’s a pretty delicious-looking recipe here, though I’m sure any recipe involving apples and sweet spices (and brown sugar—one of my favorite ingredients!) would work well. Roasting them sounds good, too.

Make (or at least enjoy) some apple cider. Just the thought of this warm, spicy drink makes my mouth water. My memories involving cider revolve around fall nights outside with my family, especially around Halloween. Most recipes seem to call for already-made cider and several ingredients to spice it up. That said, if you search for homemade apple cider recipes, you’re sure to find some instructions that are easy and accessible.

Use apples in your regular cooking. Slice up some apples and bake them instead of French fries for a healthier, sweeter treat. Dice them finely and add them to any marinated meat dish or even a stew for a nice tart addition. Chunks of apples in salad are also heavenly. For breakfast, try making some apple and cheese pancakes, or pack up some apple coleslaw for your lunch.

Make dessert. Go for the hot apple pie that almost every American seems to enjoy—or create something more unique, such as apple dumplings, apple muffins, or my favorite, apple strudel.

Start the day with apples. Warm up your family with some delicious apple cinnamon oatmeal, or if you’re in a hurry, just toss an apple in your bag.

Keep your teeth clean with apples. Eating an apple after a meal can help clean and brighten teeth—to a minimal level—when an opportunity to brush is unavailable.

Go apple picking. There’s no better way to get some delicious, fresh apples—and they’re usually quite cheap. Our local orchard sells them for just over a dollar a pound.