A Goody from Harvest Time
Harvest time is a season of abundance, when nature offers up its richest rewards. As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, gardens and fields overflow with ripe fruits, hearty vegetables, and golden grains. For centuries, this time of year has been marked by celebration, gratitude, and, of course, delicious food. Among the most cherished treats of this season is what many simply call a “goody”—a traditional dessert or snack made from the freshest harvest ingredients, often shared during gatherings with family and friends.
A “goody” can take many forms, depending on where you live or what your family traditions are. In some places, it’s a warm apple crisp with cinnamon and oats; in others, it’s a loaf of moist pumpkin bread or a sweet corn pudding. What they all have in common is their connection to the harvest—the idea of taking what the earth has given and turning it into something comforting and memorable.
One of the most beloved goodies of the season is baked apple slices, caramelized with brown sugar, butter, and spices. The scent alone—rich with cinnamon and nutmeg—can evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth. Apples are a symbol of the harvest, and when they’re at their peak, there’s no better way to enjoy them than in a simple, oven-baked treat. Served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this humble dish is a reminder that good food doesn’t need to be complicated.
Another classic harvest goody is cornbread. Made with freshly ground cornmeal, eggs, and buttermilk, it’s a staple in many kitchens during the fall. Cornbread can be sweet or savory, dense or fluffy, and it pairs beautifully with soups and stews made from other seasonal ingredients like squash, beans, and root vegetables. Whether served at a harvest festival or alongside a holiday meal, cornbread embodies the spirit of the season: nourishing, simple, and made with love.
Pumpkin-based treats also have a firm place among harvest goodies. From pies to muffins to spiced lattes, pumpkin offers a smooth texture and mild flavor that pairs well with warm spices. Roasting a fresh pumpkin and using its flesh in recipes makes a noticeable difference in taste and texture. A freshly baked pumpkin roll, filled with sweet cream cheese, is a showstopper at autumn gatherings and a testament to how the harvest inspires creativity in the kitchen.
What makes these goodies so special isn’t just their ingredients—it’s the stories behind them. They are often passed down from one generation to the next, handwritten on recipe cards, or memorized by heart. Preparing and sharing these treats is a way of connecting with the past, honoring the land, and celebrating the present moment.
Harvest time reminds us to slow down, to savor what we have, and to share it with others. Whether you’re picking apples at an orchard, pulling carrots from the garden, or selecting squash at the farmers’ market, remember that the real joy of the season comes when those ingredients are transformed into something delicious. So bake that pie, stir that soup, and savor every bite of your goody from harvest time.
