The Best Apples To Bake With!

There are so many more varieties of apple than we think and as a result we tend to resort to the varieties commonly found in supermarkets.

In the UK, there are over 2,000 varieties of apples that have been recorded, but only a fraction are commercially available in supermarkets. Many lesser-known varieties can be found at farmers' markets, local orchards, and specialised fruit growers.

In the United States, the number of documented apple varieties is even higher, with approximately 7,500 varieties. Like in the UK, only a limited number are commonly found in supermarkets, with popular choices including Gala, Fuji, Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, and Red Delicious.

Local orchards and farmers' markets in both countries are excellent places to discover unique apple varieties that are not typically available in stores, allowing you to experiment with diverse flavours and textures in their recipes.

If you live in a country that grows apples do the same and check out local markets.

Here's a selection, some of which you will know and some you may not.  Try them out for your next bake:

UNITED STATES
Granny Smith
Flavour Profile: Tart and crisp.
Best For: Pies, crisps, and tarts.
Flavour Pairing: Cinnamon, caramel, and walnuts.

Honeycrisp
Flavour Profile: Sweet with a hint of tartness and a juicy texture.
Best For: Cakes, muffins, and salads.
Flavour Pairing: Almonds, lemon, and blueberries.

Braeburn
Flavour Profile: Balanced sweet and tart flavour with a firm texture.
Best For: Pies, crisps, and sauces.
Flavour Pairing: Ginger, nutmeg, and dried fruits.

Jonagold
Flavour Profile: Sweet and tart with a honeyed flavour.
Best For: Cakes and pies.
Flavour Pairing: Vanilla, cinnamon, and pecans.

Gala
Flavour Profile: Sweet and aromatic.
Best For: Muffins, cakes, and salads.
Flavour Pairing: Maple syrup, caramel, and cheese.

Fuji
Flavour Profile: Very sweet and crunchy.
Best For: Cakes and applesauce.
Flavour Pairing: Lemon, coconut, and cinnamon.

UNITED KINGDOM
Bramley
Flavour Profile: Tart and juicy, holds shape well.
Best For: Pies, crumbles, and sauces.
Flavour Pairing: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and custard.

Cox’s Orange Pippin
Flavour Profile: Sweet and aromatic with a hint of tartness.
Best For: Cakes, crumbles, and desserts.
Flavour Pairing: Honey, vanilla, and almonds.

Egremont Russet
Flavour Profile: Nutty and sweet with a firm texture.
Best For: Tarts and cakes.
Flavour Pairing: Cheddar cheese, caramel, and dried fruits.
I'm a massive fan of this type of variety. The apple galette recipe that is available on my website was made using these apples.

Bramley Seedling
Flavour Profile: Sharp and tangy with a soft texture when cooked.
Best For: Sauces and pies.
Flavour Pairing: Ginger, cinnamon, and cream.

Ashmead’s Kernel
Flavour Profile: Sweet, tangy, and aromatic.
Best For: Tarts and cakes.
Flavour Pairing: Caramel, walnuts, and spices.

Crispin (Mutsu)
Flavour Profile: Sweet and slightly tart with a crisp texture.
Best For: Pies and crumbles.
Flavour Pairing: Maple syrup, ginger, and nutmeg.