Orchard fresh

The pickings will be anything but slim during Maine Apple Sunday, Sept. 11, at orchards throughout the state. The day celebrates the harvest with picking, hayrides and other activities for the whole family. For a list of local participants or more information, visit www.maineapples.org.

For lobster lovers

Eating lobster is one of the most rewarding – and messy – dining experiences you can have in Maine, but Roland Rose of Kennebunk has designed a solution, the Maine Lobster Platter. Its high, curved sides keep the juices off your lap, and a small ramekin keeps melted butter just where you need it. The platters cost $59.95 for a set of two and are available online at www.mainelobsterplatter.com or by calling 985-7795.

Fall for fruit

An apple a day keeps the munchies at bay. Celebrate the season with Quaker Oats’ recipe for Apple-Scotch Oat Bars. To make, heat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 13-by-9-by-2-inch metal baking pan with cooking spray. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened, 3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar and 1/2 cup granulated sugar, on medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy. Add 2 eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla; beat until well-combined. Combine 11/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and beat on low speed until just combined. Stir in 2 cups uncooked oats (either quick or old-fashioned), 1 medium Granny Smith apple, unpeeled, finely chopped, and 1 cup butterscotch-flavored baking chips. Spread evenly into pan. Bake 35-38 minutes, until light golden brown. Cool completely, cut into bars and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.

Tidbits is hungry for news about local food products and events. Send your Tidbits by mail to: Bangor Daily News, attn: Kristen Andresen, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor ME 04402-1329; by fax to 941-9476; or by e-mail to kandresen@bangordailynews.net.