Apples might be great, but donuts are wicked awesome.

So, while some people think that fall isn’t official until they’ve had their first hot (possibly mulled) apple cider, I think fall hasn’t started until I’ve had my first hot cider donuts.

Cider donuts have been around for a while, but have only recently become something that people obsess about. And why not? They are little bites of fall that are perfect to munch on while picking pumpkins or apples.

There are a lot of different places you could go, but here are my top three in a countdown:

3. Most people will tell you that Honey Pot Hill is the place to get your donuts. With its large orchard and petting zoo, there is definitely a lot to do. However, it seems as if the entire population of Somerville, Cambridge, Medford, and northern neighborhoods of Boston go here too. Be prepared for long lines and arrive before closing as they might run out of donuts before you get to the window!!

1. The best donuts, though, come from a small farm in North Andover called  Smolak Farms. Established in 1985 as a farm, the Smolak family has consistently added new plants, animals, and activities for visitors. One of their most popular items is (you guessed it!) their cider donuts. I’ve been eating these for over 15 years at least and they are my most favorite thing about fall. A half dozen will set you back about $7. Try to get a hot batch as they are even more delicious that way. Don’t forget to visit the farm animals on your way back to your car!