By Lexi Guttormson, 2018 University of Minnesota Dietetic Intern
Do you ever wonder which of those apples at your local orchard would be perfect for your pie? What about applesauce? And which apples taste best right off the tree?
With over 2,500 varieties of apples in the United States alone, it can be easy to get overwhelmed with the possibilities. Fear not, this guide will help you find the best use for some of the most popular types of apples in Minnesota!
| Apple Type: | Description: | Recommended Best Use: |
| Ambrosia | Sweet, tender | Fresh eating, salads, baking |
| Braeburn | Tart, crisp, juicy | Best used for baking |
| Crispin | Sweet, crisp | Baking, fresh eating, and applesauce |
| Fuji | Sweet, juicy, crisp | Best for fresh eating, and applesauce |
| Gala | Sweet, crisp, juicy | Fresh eating, and applesauce |
| Golden Delicious | Sweet, crisp | Great for all uses! (Baking, applesauce, fresh, apple butter, etc.) |
| Granny Smith | Firm, tart | Baking, applesauce, and apple juice |
| Honeycrisp | Sweet, crisp, slight tart hint | Best for eating fresh, or in a salad |
| Jazz | Sweet, firm, juicy | Fresh eating, and baking |
| McIntosh | Juicy, tangy, firm | Best for good quality applesauce, but really this apple is great for all uses! |
| Red Delicious | Sweet, crisp | Fresh eating, salads, applesauce, apple butter |
Storage tip:
Apples keep best in the refrigerator. Most apples are also fine to freeze!
