Find out the difference between apple types.
We’ll also give our Test Kitchen tips for the best cooking apple varieties and best apples for baking.
But we’re here to help.
Credit: Blaine Moats
Certain types are better than others for baking and cooking, however.
And it’s a good pick for baking.
Envy
Originally imported from New Zealand, theEnvy appletype is cross between Braeburn and Royal Gala apples.
Credit: Jason Donnelly
It’s now grown on the west coast in Washington.
Golden Delicious
This huge, sweet golden apple is delicious raw and great when cooked or baked.
The way this blond keeps its shape during baking makes it a natural for pies.
Cordera apples.Credit: Jason Koski
Granny Smith
This bright green fruit is on the tart, tangy end of the barometer.
Also try Granny Smith sauteed with pork.
Look for them in stores from October to February.
Credit: Carson Downing
Newton Pippin
Another all-purpose fruit, the green-goldNewton Pippinis a good keeping apple.
Its highly perfumed flesh is crisp and juicy and holds up well in the frying pan or oven.
This apple’s sweet-tart flavor makes it a favorite forbaked apple desserts.
Credit: Jacob Fox
Like many other new varieties we’re seeing,Rave applesare a cross with Honeycrisp and MonArk apple types.
Rome Beauty
Cooking and baking accentuate the rich but mellow flavor of this medium-tart, deep-red apple.
It’s known asQueen of the Bakers, and it holds up well when cooked whole.
Firecracker apples.Credit: Jason Koski
Enjoy Beauty in bread puddings, pies, quick breads, and sauces, too.
SugarBee
Creamy-white flesh and yellow-flecked red skin give theSugarBeeits sweet flavor and crunch.
Because of that honeybee and the apple’s sugar-sweet flavor, the name SugarBee was a natural fit.
Credit: Andy Lyons
The apple’s coloringorange-red blush tinged with yellowinspired its poetic name.
Put it to use in baking and cooking projects or snack on it fresh.
WildTwist
Thisunique apple varietyis a “twist” on two legendary varieties.
Credit: Blaine Moats
It has the sweet-tart flavor of Cripps Pink with extra juiciness and crunch from Honeycrisp.
The WildTwist is great for snacking and adding fresh to salads.
The fruit should have a fresh apple fragrance.
Credit: Blaine Moats
How to Store Apples
Apples are best stored in a cool, dark location.
Storage time varies by variety.
For small amounts, refrigerate in plastic bags for up to 2 weeks.
Credit: Blaine Moats
Store apples between 32oF and 40oF (in your fridge or an unfinished basement) up to 6 weeks.
Wrap apples loosely in paper or plastic (not resealable bags) for air circulation.
Pink Luster apples.Credit: Jason Koski
Credit: Jacob Fox
Credit: Carson Downing
Credit: Jacob Fox
Credit: Jacob Fox
Credit: Blaine Moats
