L&B Guide to Apples

We love fall for the colorful foliage, the crisp weather, and – here in Minnesota – the sweet, crunchy apples that fill our produce departments! Whether it’s a classic Honeycrisp or a lively SweeTango, there are endless delicious options to choose from. Plus, we are just down the road from the University of Minnesota, where some of our all-time favorite apples have been developed!  

As the leaves begin to change, we start dreaming of all the fun ways to use apples (think: Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Pork Roast, Apple Pancakes, Apple Butter or Gorgonzola Apple Slaw). But how do you know what apple is best for each recipe? We’ve rounded up some tips, tricks + flavor profiles to help you out.

Here’s our guide to apples. How many have you tried?

First Kiss

This newer apple was developed by the University of Minnesota and is lightly tart and aromatic with a super crisp texture. It’s extraordinarily juicy and has a deep red color. Eat out of hand or add to a snack tray or salad. Available in mid-August.

Honeycrisp

A fan favorite! Extremely crisp and juicy with a balanced, sweet-tart flavor. Best eaten fresh or added to salads as the flesh is slow to brown. Also delicious used in baking recipes or for applesauce. Available in mid-September.

Haralson

This firm, crisp apple has a juicy, tart flavor and red color. Perfect for eating fresh or cooking and especially good for making pies. Available in late September or early October.

SweeTango

This apple is crisp and sweet with a lively touch of citrus and honey and subtle hint of fall spice. It inherited the crisp texture of the Honeycrisp and the juiciness of the Zestar. Best enjoyed fresh. Available in early September.

McIntosh

This bright red apple has rich flavor and tender texture that softens when cooked. Enjoy in applesauce, pie or on its own. Available in late September.

Pazzazz

This late-season apple has a sweet yet tart flavor with a huge crunch. It’s delicious used in pies or other baking recipes. Available in late October.

EverCrisp

EverCrisp is a crispy, sweet apple that brings out the best from its parents, the Fuji and Honeycrisp. Enjoy fresh or add to salads. Available in late December.