Choosing the Right Apple for Cooking: A Guide to Apple Varieties and Their Best Uses

Choosing the right apple for cooking is key, as apples are one of the most popular fruits worldwide—beloved for their versatility, sweetness, and snackability. While some varieties are perfect for pies, cakes, and loaves, others are best enjoyed fresh. Whether you’re baking or snacking, today we’re diving into which apples work best for your favorite gluten-free recipes.

wet apples in a colander with fresh herbs in the background, choosing the right apple

Did You Know? The Apple You Choose Can Make or Break Your Baking

Did you know that baking with apples isn’t just about the flour you use, whether or not to add eggs, or how long you bake your dessert? The type of apple you choose can make the difference between an okay result and an amazing one. Here are a few tips and answers to common questions to help with your next baking adventure.

Health Benefits of Apples

According to Medical News, Apples are packed with essential nutrients like fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making them an excellent addition to any diet. They can support digestion, improve heart health, and help regulate blood sugar levels, all while satisfying your sweet cravings.

Why Choose Organic Apples?

When buying apples, it’s wise to choose organic when possible. Conventional apples can be treated with up to 30 different pesticides and according to EWG’s 2025 Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce were ranked #9 on the 2025 Dirty Dozen list. By opting for organic apples, you can enjoy the fruit with fewer chemicals and peace of mind.

whole apple and a halve one on a cutting board for baking

Tips for Selecting the Perfect Apple

When picking apples at the store or directly from the tree, look for these characteristics:

  • Firmness: Apples should feel firm to the touch. A firm apple usually indicates freshness and juiciness.
  • Color: Choose apples that are brightly colored. The richer the color, the riper and more flavorful the apple is likely to be.
  • Weight: Heavier apples tend to have more water retention, making them juicier.

Avoid overripe apples, which may feel soft and shrunken. While they can work for applesauce, they’re not ideal for baking, as they can turn mushy in pies and crisps.

How to Store Apples for Maximum Freshness

To extend the shelf life of your apples, store them in the refrigerator. The cold temperature helps slow down the ripening process and reduces the risk of mold growth. When stored correctly, apples can stay fresh and crisp for months, allowing you to enjoy their flavors for longer.

Preventing Browning in Cut Apples

To keep cut apples from browning, soak them in a mixture of cold water, ¼ cup of lemon juice, and 2 teaspoons of vinegar (apple cider vinegar works great!). For a sweeter alternative, you can also toss them in sugar or syrup. This simple trick will keep your apples fresh and appetizing for a longer time.

Best Apples for Cooking: Which Varieties Are Ideal for Baking?

For cooking and baking, the ideal apples are those that are high in acid, as they hold their shape well when cooked. Apples like Granny Smith and Braeburn are perfect for pies, crisps, and other baked goods because of their tartness and firm texture.

If you’re making applesauce, McIntosh is a popular choice due to its soft texture. However, for a chunkier and more textured sauce, you might want to try Granny Smith apples for a tart twist.

wet apples in a colander with halved one next to it on a cutting board, which apple is best for baking

How to Properly Wash Apples

  • Conventional Apples: Mix 3 parts water with 1 part vinegar to clean your apples, or use a specialized produce cleaner.
  • Organic Apples: Simply wash them under clean, fresh water to remove any dirt or residues.

Apple Varieties and Their Best Uses in Cooking

Here’s a breakdown of popular apple varieties and how best to use them in your cooking:

  • Braeburn: Medium-sized, crisp, juicy, and sweet-tart. Ideal for baking whole, pies, and apple compote.
  • Cortland: Large, crisp, with white flesh that resists browning. Best for chunky applesauce and salads.
  • Empire: Large, juicy, and fragrant with a balanced sweet-tart flavor. Great for smooth applesauce.
  • Fuji: Medium-sized with firm, cream-colored flesh. Best eaten raw due to its sweet and tangy flavor.
  • Gala: Medium-sized, firm, and juicy with a naturally sweet flavor. Perfect for snacking and salads.
  • Golden Delicious: Medium and firm with a sweet, floral flavor. Best for gluten-free pies, apple cakes, and muffins, and chunky applesauce.
  • Granny Smith: Medium-large, crunchy, juicy, and tart. A must-have for pies, gluten-free apple banana muffins, and applesauce.
  • Jonagold: Large, crisp, juicy, and sweet-tart with a fragrant aroma. Ideal for pies, cakes, and crisps.
  • Macoun: Medium-sized, crisp, and sweet, with a lovely fragrance. Perfect for smooth applesauce.
  • McIntosh: Medium-sized, sweet, and fragrant. Excellent for making smooth applesauce.
  • Pink Lady: Medium-large with creamy flesh that is juicy and sweet. Great for gluten-free apple pies, muffins, and raw eating.
  • Red Delicious: Medium-large and elongated, crisp, and sweet. Best enjoyed raw.
  • Rome Beauty: Large, firm, mildly tart, and fragrant. Ideal for baking whole (like in apple dumplings) and in muffins.

colander filled with apples on a cutting board

Gluten-Free Apple Recipes for Every Baker

Want to get creative with your cooking? Explore these delicious gluten-free apple recipes to elevate your baking game and make the most of your favorite apple varieties.

By understanding which apple varieties are best suited for different types of cooking and following these simple tips, you can elevate your apple-based recipes to the next level. Happy baking!

Kristina x