Best Apples for Baking

Did you know over 2,500 varieties of apples are grown in the United States? How do you choose which ones to use in your baked goods? Generally speaking, the best apples to use in baking will hold their shape when cooked and have a touch of tartness to them. On top of that, apples top the Environmental Working Group’s 2015 Dirty Dozen – a list of the most pesticide-contaminated fruits and vegetables – so it’s important to choose organic if possible.

Here are our top apple picks for baking, all available organic.

Fuji

Sweet with a slightly crisp bite. Works for both eating and baking. (It’s Julie’s fave for this cake!)

Gala

Delicate, not-too-sweet flavor; more soft than crunchy and great for baking or eating. (Also try it on a cheese plate.)

Granny Smith

The classic pie apple; tart, crisp and perfect for baking.

Braeburn

Tart and complex with a softer texture makes this variety a baking superstar.

Cameo

Firm, creamy texture with flavor that’s on the sweet side; excellent both for baking and making applesauce.

Try one of our juicy recipes:

Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake

Whole-Grain Zucchini Apple Bread

Apple Crumble Bars

Chewy Apple Pie Bars