Grocery
Empire Apples
What it is
Empire apples are a popular variety known for their crisp texture and balanced sweet-tart flavor. They are a medium-sized apple with a vibrant red skin, often with green or yellow undertones. These apples are a hybrid, developed from a cross between McIntosh and Red Delicious apples, combining desirable traits from both parent varieties. Their firm flesh holds its shape well when cooked.
How people cook with it
Empire apples are incredibly versatile in the kitchen, suitable for both sweet and savory applications.
- Snacking fresh
- Baking pies
- Making applesauce
- Adding to salads
Enjoy Empire apples straight from the fruit bowl for a refreshing snack. When baking, their firm texture makes them ideal for pies and tarts, as they don't turn to mush. They also lend themselves well to applesauce, providing a good balance of sweetness and acidity. For a savory touch, thinly sliced Empire apples can add a delightful crunch and flavor to salads or cheese boards. Their juice is also pleasant for drinking.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to softer apples like McIntosh, Empire apples offer a firmer bite and hold their structure better during cooking. They are less prone to becoming mealy than some other varieties, providing a more satisfying texture in dishes where the apple needs to remain distinct.
Who it is for
Home cooks and families who appreciate a good all-purpose apple for everyday eating and cooking.
How to keep the rest
To keep Empire apples fresh, store them in the refrigerator. Place them in a plastic bag with a few holes poked in it to maintain humidity while allowing air circulation. Avoid storing them near strong-smelling foods, as apples can absorb odors.