What's in Season: Apples

With so many varieties, shopping for apples at your local farmers’ market can be overwhelming. Here are just a handful of the types of seasonal apples I came across this past weekend and some fun recipes to try with each: 

Crispin: These big yellowish-green apples are tart and juicy. Their hard flesh holds up well to baking, but the sweet and tart flavor makes them great for eating raw, too. I like to use these apples in a classic Apple Strudel, recipe courtesy of my hometown’s beloved Berghoff’s.

Honey Crisp: One of America’s favorite snacking apples; they’re crisp and sweet with hints of honey and green grapes. Once cooked, their flavor adds complexity to baked dishes like these Baked Apples Stuffed with Oatmeal and Brown Sugar. Top with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to finish them off.

 

Macoun: A cross between McIntosh and Jersey Black, these apples make great applesauce and cider, yet are also ideal for snacking. They’re juicy, sweet, and tart and have a softer flesh. Try pairing them with cheese or using them to make Homemade Applesauce.

Winesap: With hints of wine and spice, these firm fleshed apples are great for making Homemade Apple Cider. They’re also great for baking, and applesauce.

Fuji: Sweet, juicy, and tender, these apples are best eaten raw. They’ll maintain their crisp texture when kept in the fridge. Try using them in salads or slaws, or in these indulgent Sweet and Salty Bourbon Pecan & Chocolate Caramel Dipped Apples.

Cortland: A great option for an all-purpose apple. They’re sweet, tangy, and tart with a tender flesh.  Another plus?  Once cut, these apples don’t oxidize as quickly as others. If you’re up for baking, you can never go wrong with an apple pie. Scroll down the page to find my recipe, which took 3^rd place in Timeout NY’s apple pie contest!

Empire: These small, sweet and tart apples are a cross between Red Delicious and McIntosh. Their creamy texture makes for great snacking, but they work well in baked dishes like this Upside Down Caramel Apple Cake.

Which apples will you be purchasing this season? Send me your favorite apple recipes!