Not all apples are created equal! Whether you’re looking for the perfect crisp bite or the ideal variety for pies and sauces, knowing which apples to use can make all the difference. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best apples for snacking and cooking.
Best Apples for Cooking & Baking
These apples hold up under heat, keeping their flavor and texture intact:
- Granny Smith: Tart and firm, perfect for pies and crisps.
- Jonagold: A balance of sweet and tart, great for baking.
- Braeburn: Adds sweetness and holds its shape when baked.
- McIntosh: Softens beautifully, ideal for applesauce or muffins.
- Golden Delicious: Mild and versatile, great for baking or sauces.
Best Apples for Snacking
For a fresh, crisp bite, these varieties are perfect:
- Honeycrisp: Sweet, juicy, and satisfying.
- Fuji: Extra sweet with a crunchy bite.
- Rockit: Small and crisp, perfect for on-the-go snacking.
- Gala: Mild, sweet, and ideal for eating raw.
- Pink Lady: A perfect mix of sweet and tart for fresh snacking.
- Red Delicious: Soft and sweet for a classic snack.
- Jazz: Crisp with a sweet-tart flavor.
Some apples, like Golden Delicious and Pink Lady, work well for both baking and snacking—making them great all-rounders. Whether you’re whipping up a pie or just enjoying a quick snack, choosing the right apple will take your food game to the next level!
I Want Apples For…
Sauce: Go with ones that have both sweetness and a snappy crunch, such as Gala, Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Pinova.
Cider: Try a blend of sweet (Fuji, Gala) and tart (Pink Lady, McIntosh) apples for balanced flavor. The warming spices are important here, too.
Pies and baked treats: You’ll want apples that hold their shape well—AKA don’t turn to complete mush when baked. Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, and Braeburn are all good options.
Savory dishes: Gala is a great go-to. It’s sweet enough to complement savory flavors but mild enough to not overpower the dish as a whole.
Snacking: Rockit. Their crunchy bite and long shelf life make them a popular choice for anyone looking for a convenient, healthy snack option.
Hungry for more? Try these delicious apple recipes:
