Fall in Minnesota brings many delights, but one of the highlights is the fresh apple harvest. While I may not always pick apples myself, visiting an orchard in autumn is a favorite tradition. If I’m honest, my orchard visits often revolve around finding delicious apple cider donuts. Over the years, I’ve sampled many, and I believe some of the best in Minnesota come from North Star Donuts, a food truck dedicated to apple-themed treats.
From late August to late October, one of North Star Donuts’ trucks can be found at the Arboretum AppleHouse in Victoria, MN, opposite the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. This location serves as a retail outlet where visitors can purchase fruit from the university’s orchards. The university has been breeding apples for over a century and has introduced 29 varieties, including the famous Honeycrisp, proudly marketed as the “Home of the Honeycrisp.”
While I do enjoy Honeycrisp apples, my main focus during my visit to the AppleHouse was the hot apple cider mini donuts from North Star Donuts. Sprinkled with cinnamon sugar, these treats have the perfect combination of a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior, creating a delightful apple flavor.
North Star Donuts specializes in apple cider donuts, selling them by the dozen. They offer no other types of donuts, as the owners, experienced orchardists, believe these are the best. The friendly staff also provide hot or frozen cider to complement the donuts.
If coffee is your preference, you can enjoy that too. These warm donuts pair excellently with a refreshing cup of cold brew.
The AppleHouse, located right next to the North Star Donuts truck, offers fresh apples as well.
From late August through October, you can visit North Star Donuts at the Arboretum AppleHouse Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. If you crave apple cider donuts outside of the season or can’t visit during September or October, check North Star’s Facebook page for their current locations.
For a full experience, consider staying at an affordable, modern Airbnb in Chanhassen, just minutes away from Paisley Park, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Lake Ann Park, and, of course, North Star Donuts at the Arboretum AppleHouse.
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