Choosing the Right Apple For Cooking

Apples are among the most popular fruits worldwide, celebrated for their versatility and flavor. While some varieties excel in cooking—perfect for pies, muffins, cakes—others are best enjoyed fresh. Not only are they delicious, but they also offer numerous health benefits and make a great addition to salads..

When selecting apples, it’s wise to choose organic whenever possible. Many conventional apples are treated with as many as 30 different pesticides, and they ranked #5 on the 2021 Dirty Dozen list. Prioritizing organic options can help you enjoy this nutritious fruit with peace of mind.

apples on a wooden tray

Tips for Selecting the Perfect Apple

When picking apples from the tree or at the market, look for ones that are firm, brightly colored, and somewhat heavy. A heavier apple usually indicates juiciness due to maximum water retention.

Avoid overripe apples, as they tend to feel soft and shrunken. While these may be suitable for making applesauce, they won’t deliver the best results for baking. Choose wisely for delicious results!

How to Store Apples for Maximum Freshness

To ensure the longest storage life for your apples, keep them in the refrigerator. This helps slow down their natural ripening process and discourages mold growth. When stored properly, apples can remain crisp and juicy for months, allowing you to enjoy their deliciousness for longer!

Preventing Browning in Cut Apples

To prevent cut apples from browning, place them in cold water mixed with ¼ cup of lemon juice and two teaspoons of vinegar (apple cider vinegar works great!). Alternatively, you can toss them in sugar or syrup for a sweeter option. This simple step keeps your apples looking fresh and appetizing!

Choosing the Best Apples for Cooking

Apples that are high in acid, such as Granny Smith or Braeburn, are ideal for cooking, as they maintain their shape in pies and crisps. The acidity enhances the perception of other flavors and helps retain more overall taste.

While any apple can be used for making applesauce, McIntosh is a popular choice. For a chunkier and looser sauce, opt for crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith. 

Properly Washing Apples

To clean conventional apples, mix a solution of 3 parts water to 1 part vinegar, or use a product specifically designed for cleaning produce. For organic apples, wash them under clean, fresh water, and the apples are ready to enjoy!

apples in wicker basket

Apple Varieties and Their Best Uses

Braeburn
Medium, crisp, juicy, and sweet-tart. Best for baking whole, pies, and chunky sauces.

Cortland
Large, crisp, with white flesh that resists browning. Tart flavor makes it ideal for chunky sauces.

Empire
Large, juicy, and fragrant with a sweet-tart flavor. Perfect for smooth sauces.

Fuji
Medium-sized with firm, cream-colored flesh. Tangy and sweet, best for eating raw.

Gala
Medium, firm, and juicy with a sweet flavor. Excellent for enjoying raw.

Golden Delicious
Medium and firm with a sweet, fragrant taste. Great for pies, cakes, muffins, and chunky sauces.

Granny Smith
Medium-large, crunchy, juicy, and tart. Ideal for pies, muffins, and very chunky sauces.

Jonagold
Large, crisp, juicy, and sweet-tart with a fragrant aroma. Best for pies and cakes.

Macoun
Medium, crisp, and sweet with a lovely fragrance. Perfect for smooth sauces.

McIntosh
Medium-sized, crisp, sweet, and fragrant. Great for making smooth sauces.

Pink Lady
Medium-large with creamy flesh that is juicy and sweet. Best for pies and muffins.

Red Delicious
Medium-large and elongated, crisp, and sweet. Perfect for eating raw.

Rome Beauty
Large, firm, mildly tart, and fragrant. Best for baking whole like apple dumplings and in muffins.

 

For more information on cooking with apples please check out our gluten-free apple recipes.

Let’s Connect!

Be sure to FOLLOW US on FACEBOOK and PINTEREST. And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter, the form is at the bottom of this page. We always have something new and exciting for you! 

Many thanks!

Kristina xx