Nestled in the picturesque town of Cashmere, Washington, Liberty Orchards stands as a true Pacific Northwest treasure, renowned worldwide as the proud home of the legendary Aplets & Cotlets. More than just a candy factory, it’s a vibrant piece of regional history and a delicious destination that invites visitors to step into a world of sweet confections. A visit here offers a unique opportunity to embark on an Aplets & Cotlets Factory Tour, a captivating journey where you can witness firsthand the artistry and tradition behind these iconic fruit-nut candies.
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Discover the Sweet Legacy of Liberty Orchards – Home of Aplets & Cotlets
Our journey to Leavenworth, Washington, to celebrate our four-year wedding anniversary, naturally included a delightful detour to Cashmere. A stop at the Liberty Orchards factory and store is more than just a tradition for us; it’s an essential part of any trip through this beautiful region. This iconic landmark, brimming with unbelievable yummy goodness, consistently ranks as one of our most anticipated stops when heading to the Bavarian-themed village of Leavenworth.
The story of Liberty Orchards began in 1918 when two Armenian immigrants, Armen T. Minasian and Richard R. Odabashian, settled in the apple-rich Wenatchee Valley. Inspired by the traditional Turkish Delight from their homeland and the abundance of local fruits, they created Aplets & Cotlets – a unique confection made from apples and apricots, respectively, blended with walnuts and dusted with powdered sugar. These distinctive candies quickly became a local sensation, growing into a cherished part of Washington State’s culinary heritage. Visiting Liberty Orchards today means stepping into a century-old legacy of innovation, quality, and community spirit.
One of the true highlights of visiting the Aplets & Cotlets store in Cashmere is the opportunity to take an engaging factory tour. These tours provide a rare glimpse into the meticulous process of how their beloved fruit-nut candies are crafted. From the initial mixing of fruit and nuts to the careful cooking, cooling, cutting, and dusting stages, every step is a testament to their dedication to quality and tradition. During our most recent visit, we spent a good while peeking through the factory door, captivated by the fascinating ballet of candy-making unfolding before our eyes. The vibrant sights and sweet aromas alone make the experience unforgettable, offering a deeper appreciation for each delicious bite.
The factory tour is not just about watching; it’s an immersive educational experience. Knowledgeable guides walk you through the history of Liberty Orchards, explaining the origins of Aplets & Cotlets and the techniques that have been perfected over generations. You’ll learn about the careful selection of local ingredients, particularly the Washington apples and apricots that form the heart of these treats. Witnessing the machinery and the dedicated team in action provides a wonderful insight into large-scale candy production while maintaining a handmade feel. It’s a sweet symphony of innovation and tradition working in harmony.
For those unfamiliar with the unique taste of Aplets & Cotlets, the store provides an irresistible invitation: free samples! This is your chance to discover the delightful chewy texture and distinct fruit flavors that have charmed palates for over a century. During our visit, a generous array of flavors was available for sampling, allowing us to indulge in classic apple and apricot, alongside seasonal or specialty varieties. This tasting experience is a fantastic way to find your new favorite and perhaps pick up some unique gifts for friends and family.
Beyond the famous Aplets & Cotlets, the Liberty Orchards store is a treasure trove of other delectable treats. We discovered an incredible selection of preserves, fruit spreads, and gourmet food items. On our last trip, we were particularly enchanted by the Liberty Orchards Black Raspberry Seedless Preserves. Oh, my goodness, this preserve is an absolute revelation! Its rich, intense berry flavor and silky-smooth texture are so exquisite that I could easily eat it straight from the jar with a spoon. I simply cannot wait to spread it generously over warm toast, swirl it into creamy vanilla ice cream, or simply enjoy it as a delightful indulgence. I instantly regretted not stocking up on more jars; this heavenly spread is destined to disappear quickly from our pantry. Each spoonful will be savored and cherished, a sweet reminder of our visit.
The store also offers a wide range of gift baskets, specialty candies, and other local Washington State products, making it an ideal spot to find unique souvenirs or delightful presents. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Aplets & Cotlets or a first-time visitor, the diversity of offerings ensures there’s something to tempt every taste bud. From individually wrapped candies perfect for a quick snack to beautifully packaged gift sets, Liberty Orchards truly caters to all.
Visiting the Aplets & Cotlets Candy Kitchen: Location and Accessibility
The Aplets & Cotlets Candy Kitchen and Liberty Orchards gift store are conveniently located at:
117 Mission Ave, Cashmere, WA 98815
Finding this sweet destination is remarkably easy, even for first-time visitors. Liberty Orchards is strategically situated in the charming heart of Cashmere, Washington, and is well-marked with clear signage along Highway 2. You’ll spot prominent signs guiding you to turn onto “Aplets Way,” a delightful hint of the sugary delights awaiting you. The factory and gift store are merely a minute’s drive off Highway 2, making it an incredibly accessible and rewarding stop on any road trip through Central Washington.
Taking a few minutes to turn off the highway and explore the Liberty Orchards factory and gift store is an experience well worth the slight detour. This isn’t just a quick stop; it’s a destination where you can discover new and amazing products with every visit. We make it a point to stop every single time we are near Cashmere, eager to see what new flavors, seasonal treats, or gourmet preserves they have in store. It has become a beloved tradition, adding a touch of sweetness and local charm to our Washington adventures.
Aplets & Cotlets Factory Tours: Plan Your Sweet Experience
When you plan your visit to the Aplets & Cotlets Factory, be sure to inquire about their upcoming tour schedule. These fascinating tours, which include complimentary samples of their famous confections, are generally offered every 20 minutes, providing ample opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the candy-making process. It’s a wonderful, family-friendly activity that offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at a cherished Pacific Northwest institution.
Detailed Tour Hours:
April Through December:
Monday through Friday: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
January through March:
Monday through Friday: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
It’s important to note that while tours are regularly scheduled, production hours may vary. This means that you might have the opportunity to take a tour even when the factory’s production lines are not actively running. However, even without seeing the machinery in full swing, the informative guides and the engaging storytelling ensure a memorable and educational experience. You’ll still learn about the entire process, the ingredients, and the rich history of Liberty Orchards, all while enjoying those irresistible free samples.
A visit to Liberty Orchards is more than just a stop at a factory; it’s an opportunity to connect with a piece of Washington’s culinary heritage, taste unique local flavors, and witness the dedication that goes into crafting each delicious piece of Aplets & Cotlets. It’s an experience that appeals to all ages, leaving you with sweet memories and perhaps a few bags of their delightful candies to enjoy long after your visit.
Explore More of Washington State: Nearby Attractions and Guides
After indulging in the sweet delights of Liberty Orchards, consider extending your adventure to explore the many other fascinating destinations Washington State has to offer. The region surrounding Cashmere is rich with unique towns, stunning natural beauty, and exciting activities perfect for any traveler.
Leavenworth Christmas Guide: Immerse yourself in the festive magic! Discover everything you need to know to fully enjoy the spectacular Leavenworth Christmas Festival, a truly enchanting experience.
Top Things to Do in Leavenworth: From Bavarian-themed shops to outdoor adventures, explore all the must-do activities and attractions when visiting Leavenworth, Washington.
Top Things to Do in Roslyn, WA: Step back in time in this charming town, famously featured in the TV series “Northern Exposure.” Discover its unique history and scenic beauty.
Top Things to Do in Lake Chelan: Experience the breathtaking beauty and endless recreational opportunities around Lake Chelan, from wineries to watersports.
Top Things to Do in Prosser: Journey to the birthplace of Washington Wines! Explore vineyards, tasting rooms, and the agricultural charm of this vibrant community.
Top Things to Do in Spokane: Discover the diverse attractions of Spokane, Washington’s second-largest city, offering urban adventures, parks, and cultural experiences.