When Are Apples in Season?

An apple recipe can be dependent on the type of apple, so if you are wondering when apples are in season, it’s best to reference seasonality for the type of apple you have in mind. Generally speaking, you will find most apple varieties available in stores from late July through early November. A few types, including Gala, McIntosh and Macoun, are available in September. 

Thankfully, apple prices stay relatively flat throughout the year, even though sales tend to see an uptick in the fall (September through November). In preparation for your weekly grocery haul, be sure to download the Fetch shopping rewards app, so you can get the most rewards on your purchases.

What are the different types of apples available?

The U.S. is responsible for growing more than 100 varieties of apples, but these are the most common varieties you will see in stores:

• Empire
• Fuji
• Gala
• Golden Delicious
• Granny Smith
• Honeycrisp
• McIntosh
• Pink Lady
• Red Delicious

How to pick an apple at the grocery store

Picking a good apple at the grocery store really relies on most of your senses. Look for apples that are free of bruises, scuffs, or obvious signs of decay. Also pay attention to the color of your apple; the healthiest apples have vibrant color, meaning they have absorbed plenty of sunlight. Once you have visually examined your apple, pick it up to give it a gentle squeeze. The apple should be plenty firm, with no soft or mushy areas. Finally, give it a quick sniff. Different varieties will have stronger aromas, but apples should smell pleasant!

How to tell if apples are ripe

When apple-picking, go to the sunny side of the tree and select an apple that looks ripe and ready. Cup the bottom in your palm and give it a gentle lift. If it’s ripe, it will separate from the tree easily and without pulling.

How to store apples at home

Knowing how to store your apples will greatly increase their lifespan and your enjoyment. General guidelines for apples are keeping them in a cool, preferably humid place like a cellar or unheated garage. Keep in mind that store-bought apples, as opposed to freshly-picked apples, have already been stored for several weeks. Also keep in mind that apples with blemishes and soft spots should be eaten immediately and not stored as they will not keep. Simply cut around the blemishes and enjoy the rest of the apple. Store-bought apples will last one to two weeks hanging out on your kitchen counter.

How long do apples last in the fridge?

The refrigerator is an excellent option for extending the life of store-bought apples. Putting apples in the crisper drawer ensures they can last six to eight weeks in the fridge. 

How to keep apples from turning brown

You may have heard of methods of keeping apples from turning brown, such as coating in lemon juice or soaking in water. There is another method that won’t change the flavor or texture like the first options. Simply cut your apples up and soak them in a saltwater solution for about ten minutes. The ratio will be a half teaspoon of kosher salt per cup of water, and you can easily rinse away the salt before serving. 

How to cut an apple

You don’t need any complicated tools to learn how to cut an apple. Follow these easy-peasy directions:

1. Use a vegetable peeler to remove apple skin (if desired).
2. Using a wooden cutting board and sharp kitchen knife, set an apple upright and cut it in half from the stem-side to the bottom.
3. Place each half seed-side down and cut in half again. You will now have apple quarters.
4. Place each apple quarter on one of their flat sides, then slice off the end with the seeds/parts of the apple core.
5. From there, You can cut each quarter into smaller slices, or chop into smaller cubes.

Can dogs have apples?

As you slice and chop away, your canine companion may prompt you to ask the question, “Can dogs have apples?” We are happy to report that yes, dogs can safely eat apples! Apples provide a healthy source of fiber and vitamins to dogs, and can even help freshen breath by cleaning their teeth. Although it presents only a very small risk, you should remove the core and seeds as they contain trace amounts of cyanide which can be released when chewed.

Easy apple recipes

Whether you are grocery shopping for one, or planning meals and snacks for the whole family, here are some delicious Fetch-recommended recipes to try!

How to make apple fritters

Apple fritters seem like an intimidating recipe, but this pastry recipe comes together in a few steps and will definitely impress!

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1/3 cup milk
• 2 eggs
• 3 tablespoons Musselman’s (or your favorite) applesauce
• 2 large Granny Smith apples or Honey Crisp apples, peeled, cored and diced
• Canola oil or vegetable oil for frying
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Recipe:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and cinnamon. Make a well in the center and stir in ⅓ cup milk, eggs, and applesauce to combine. Fold in apples.
2. In a heavy skillet or dutch oven, heat 1 ½ inches of oil to 375 degrees. 
3. For each fritter, drop ¼ cup of batter into the hot oil, spreading it out gently as you drop them in. 
4. Cook each fritter for about two minutes per side, until golden brown.
5. Use a slotted spoon to remove and place on a paper towel to drain. 
6. For the glaze, whisk ¼ cup milk with the powdered sugar and vanilla. Dunk each fritter into the glaze and coat both sides before placing on a wire rack to air dry. 

How to make apple sauce

Apple sauce is surprisingly easy to make! Follow this quick recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4 apples – peeled, cored and chopped
• ¾ cup water
• ¼ cup white sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Recipe:

1. In a saucepan, combine apples, sugar, cinnamon and water. Cover and cook over medium heat until the apples are soft (about 15 to 20 minutes).
2. Cut off the heat and allow your apple mixture to cool before mashing with a fork to desired consistency.

How to make apple juice

Apple juice is a nutritious and refreshing drink, and we bet it’s simpler to make homemade than you thought!

Ingredients:

• 18 apples
• Cinnamon (optional)
• Sugar (optional)

Recipe:

1. Wash and cut the apple into slice, removing seeds (no need to peel).
2. In a pot, add your apples and enough water to cover them. You can always add water, but you don’t want to dilute your juice too much at the start.
3. Bring to a slow bowl for 20-25 minutes until the apples are soft.
4. Place a fine-mesh strainer over a bowl, and a cheesecloth or coffee filter inside the strainer.
5. Ladle the apple mush into the strainer, and mash against the strainer and filter until all the juice is in the bowl.
6. Once it has cooled, taste it and add more cinnamon, sugar, or water to taste.
7. Put in the fridge and enjoy within a week!

Earn rewards when you grocery shop with Fetch

The Fetch fam is here to help you with everything from building a budget-friendly grocery list, to snagging savings on your weekly food shop. Use the Fetch app to earn free gift cards and rewards by simply snapping a picture of your grocery store receipts!