27 Types of Apples with Health Benefits and Interesting Facts

Apples are one of the most beloved fruits globally. They come in a wide variety of flavors, colors, and textures.

The different types of apples, ranging from sweet and juicy Honeycrisp to tart Granny Smith, cater to diverse tastes and culinary needs.

Each type has unique characteristics, making it perfect for snacking, baking, or adding a refreshing crunch to salads.

Whether you prefer a crisp bite or a softer texture, exploring the many types of apples can help you find your ideal match.

In the following article, we will take a detailed look into the juicy world of apples, and let’s learn what makes each one special.

1. Honeycrisp Apple

Honeycrisp apples are known for their exceptionally crisp and juicy texture, along with a balanced sweet-tart flavor that makes them a popular choice for fresh eating and baking. Their unique cell structure enhances their crunchiness, making them stand out among other apple varieties.

Place of Origin: Minnesota, USA
Nutritional Value: High in fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants
Health Benefits: Supports immune health, promotes digestive health, aids in heart health, and helps regulate blood pressure due to its low calorie and high nutrient content

Additional Information: Honeycrisp apples have a long shelf life, which makes them perfect for storing and enjoying throughout the year. Their crisp texture remains intact even when refrigerated for extended periods, making them ideal for meal prep or adding a crunchy element to fruit salads. They’re also considered a great snack option for those looking for a low-calorie, nutrient-dense treat.

2. Granny Smith Apple

Granny Smith apples are famous for their bright green skin and distinctively tart flavor, making them a popular choice for baking, particularly in pies. Their crisp and firm texture holds up well under heat, providing a delightful contrast in baked goods.

Place of Origin: New South Wales, Australia
Nutritional Value: High in fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and low in calories
Health Benefits: Helps in weight management, controls blood sugar levels, and promotes healthy digestion

Additional Information: Granny Smith apples are one of the best varieties for balancing sweetness and acidity in desserts. They have a long storage life and are known for maintaining their freshness even when stored for weeks. Their tartness also makes them ideal for salads, as they add a refreshing, zesty bite without overpowering other flavors.

3. Fuji Apple

Fuji apples are a hybrid variety created by crossing Red Delicious and Ralls Janet apples. They are known for their ultra-sweet flavor and dense, crisp texture. Their high sugar content makes them one of the sweetest apple varieties, perfect for fresh eating.

Place of Origin: Fujisaki, Japan
Nutritional Value: Rich in dietary fiber, vitamin C, and natural sugars
Health Benefits: Provides a quick energy boost, supports immune function, and promotes healthy skin due to high antioxidant levels

Additional Information: Fuji apples are incredibly versatile in the kitchen, suitable for raw consumption and cooking. They hold their shape well in pies and are ideal for making sauces. Their sweetness makes them a great addition to smoothies and fruit salads, adding natural flavor without extra sweeteners.

4. Gala Apple

Gala apples are cherished for their mild, sweet flavor and thin, tender skin. Their naturally small size and juicy texture make them a popular choice for snacking and kid-friendly lunch boxes. They’re easily recognizable by their yellow-orange base and distinctive red stripes.

Place of Origin: New Zealand
Nutritional Value: High in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium
Health Benefits: Helps regulate blood sugar levels, supports heart health, and promotes good gut health

Additional Information: Gala apples are perfect for fresh consumption, as their delicate texture and mild flavor can get lost when cooked. They are often used for juicing and making apple cider, adding a subtly sweet note to beverages. Due to their natural sweetness, they pair well with cheeses and nut butters for a nutritious snack.

5. Golden Delicious Apple

Golden Delicious apples are known for their tender flesh and honeyed sweetness. This versatile apple can be used in a variety of ways, from snacking to baking, and even in savory dishes due to its subtle, non-acidic flavor.

Place of Origin: West Virginia, USA
Nutritional Value: Rich in dietary fiber, vitamin C, and potassium
Health Benefits: Supports bone health, aids in digestion, and helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels

Additional Information: Golden Delicious apples are ideal for making sauces and baking because their soft texture holds up well under heat. Their delicate sweetness complements both sweet and savory recipes, making them a great choice for salads, pies, and roasted dishes. They also resist browning longer than other varieties, making them a good option for fruit platters.

6. Red Delicious Apple

Red Delicious apples are one of the most well-known apple varieties, famous for their deep red color and mildly sweet flavor. Though often used for fresh eating, they have a subtle taste and slightly mealy texture that isn’t ideal for baking.

Place of Origin: Iowa, USA
Nutritional Value: High in dietary fiber and vitamin C
Health Benefits: Supports healthy weight management, promotes heart health, and provides antioxidant protection

Additional Information: Red Delicious apples are best enjoyed fresh in salads or as a snack due to their delicate texture. Their visually appealing deep red skin makes them a popular decorative fruit, often used in displays or as a centerpiece. However, they should be stored carefully, as they bruise more easily than other varieties.

7. Pink Lady Apple

Pink Lady apples are known for their vibrant pinkish-red skin and crisp, juicy texture. They have a sweet-tart flavor that’s both refreshing and balanced, making them a versatile choice for eating fresh or incorporating into recipes.

Place of Origin: Western Australia
Nutritional Value: High in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants
Health Benefits: Helps reduce cholesterol levels, supports weight management, and promotes a healthy immune system

Additional Information: Pink Lady apples are valued for their long shelf life and ability to retain their texture and flavor even when stored for months. They are often used in salads, as their tartness contrasts well with sweeter ingredients. Their firm texture also makes them a good option for baking.

8. Braeburn Apple

Braeburn apples have a spicy-sweet flavor and crisp texture, making them a delightful choice for both fresh eating and cooking. Their balance of sweetness and tartness makes them ideal for adding complexity to baked dishes.

Place of Origin: New Zealand
Nutritional Value: High in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium
Health Benefits: Supports heart health, stabilizes blood sugar levels, and promotes good digestion

Additional Information: Braeburn apples hold their shape well under heat, making them one of the best choices for pies, tarts, and other baked desserts. Their aromatic notes add depth to any dish, and they are particularly popular in savory recipes that call for apples.

9. McIntosh Apple

McIntosh apples are known for their juicy flesh and tangy flavor. With a softer texture than many other varieties, they are best suited for making applesauce, apple butter, and juice rather than baking.

Place of Origin: Ontario, Canada
Nutritional Value: High in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants
Health Benefits: Promotes cardiovascular health, supports healthy skin, and aids in digestion

Additional Information: McIntosh apples have a short shelf life and should be used quickly after harvesting to enjoy their peak flavor. They’re perfect for adding moisture and tang to desserts and drinks. When cooked, they break down easily, making them ideal for smooth-textured sauces and purées.

10. Jonathan Apple

Jonathan apples have a sweet and slightly tart flavor with a juicy, firm texture. Their bright red skin and crisp flesh make them a popular choice for snacking and cooking.

Place of Origin: New York, USA
Nutritional Value: Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber
Health Benefits: Supports heart health, aids in digestion, and boosts the immune system

Additional Information: Jonathan apples are particularly good for baking and making apple cider due to their balanced sweetness and acidity. They add a pleasant complexity to desserts and can be used in savory dishes to add a pop of flavor.

11. Cameo Apple

Cameo apples are a modern variety with a sweet and crisp flavor profile. They have a slightly thicker skin compared to other apples and a delightful crunch that makes them ideal for snacking.

Place of Origin: Washington, USA
Nutritional Value: High in fiber and vitamin C
Health Benefits: Helps lower cholesterol, supports immune health, and promotes good gut health

Additional Information: Cameo apples are resistant to browning, making them perfect for salads and fruit trays. Their balanced flavor also makes them suitable for baking and cooking, though they truly shine when eaten fresh.

12. Empire Apple

Empire apples are a cross between McIntosh and Red Delicious, resulting in a sweet-tart flavor and firm texture. They have a deep red color and a juicy, crisp bite.

Place of Origin: New York, USA
Nutritional Value: High in fiber and vitamin C
Health Benefits: Supports healthy weight management, promotes heart health, and provides antioxidant benefits

Additional Information: Empire apples are versatile and can be used for snacking, baking, and even making cider. Their firm texture makes them perfect for adding to lunchboxes, and they store well for extended periods, maintaining their freshness for weeks.

13. Cripps Pink Apple

Cripps Pink apples are known for their firm texture and complex sweet-tart flavor. Their blush pink skin and dense flesh make them a visually appealing and flavorful choice for fresh eating.

Place of Origin: Western Australia
Nutritional Value: High in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants
Health Benefits: Supports immune health, promotes digestive health, and aids in heart health

Additional Information: Cripps Pink apples have a long shelf life, making them ideal for storing and enjoying over time. Their dense flesh means they hold up well in baking, and they are often used in recipes that require a firm apple to retain shape and texture.

14. Jazz Apple

Jazz apples are a cross between Gala and Braeburn, resulting in a sweet, crisp, and juicy variety. Their dense texture and bold flavor make them perfect for snacking and adding crunch to salads.

Place of Origin: New Zealand
Nutritional Value: High in dietary fiber, vitamin C, and potassium
Health Benefits: Supports heart health, promotes healthy digestion, and helps regulate blood pressure

Additional Information: Jazz apples have a dense, fine texture that makes them ideal for juicing and adding to baked dishes. Their sweetness intensifies when cooked, making them a versatile addition to both sweet and savory recipes.

15. Cortland Apple

Cortland apples are a juicy and mildly sweet variety with a hint of tartness. They have a smooth red skin and white flesh that resists browning, making them perfect for fresh salads and fruit platters.

Place of Origin: New York, USA
Nutritional Value: High in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants
Health Benefits: Promotes heart health, supports healthy digestion, and provides immune-boosting benefits

Additional Information: Cortland apples are a preferred choice for those who enjoy fresh-cut apples in salads, as their flesh resists browning longer than other varieties. They are also popular for making applesauce and cider, as they break down well when cooked, producing a smooth, flavorful texture.

16. Envy Apple

Envy apples are known for their super-sweet flavor and crisp, juicy texture. With their deep red skin and creamy flesh, they are a popular choice for fresh eating and adding a sweet crunch to dishes.

Place of Origin: New Zealand
Nutritional Value: High in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants
Health Benefits: Supports skin health, aids in digestion, and provides a natural source of energy

Additional Information: Envy apples are often used as a snack due to their satisfying sweetness and crunch. They resist browning, making them ideal for cheese boards and salads. Envy apples are a cross between Braeburn and Royal Gala, combining the best traits of both varieties to deliver a premium eating experience.

17. Ambrosia Apple

Ambrosia apples are exceptionally sweet and aromatic, with a juicy, crisp texture. Their honeyed flavor and low acidity make them a perfect choice for fresh consumption and desserts.

Place of Origin: British Columbia, Canada
Nutritional Value: High in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium
Health Benefits: Supports immune health, helps reduce cholesterol levels, and promotes healthy digestion

Additional Information: Ambrosia apples are unique in that their natural sweetness allows them to be used in low-sugar recipes. Their tender flesh holds up well in fruit salads, and they are also popular for making apple crisps and other baked goods. Their name, meaning “food of the gods,” reflects their highly regarded taste.

18. Opal Apple

Opal apples are a bright yellow variety known for their sweet, floral flavor and crisp texture. They have a natural resistance to browning, making them ideal for salads, snacking, and lunchboxes.

Place of Origin: Czech Republic
Nutritional Value: High in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants
Health Benefits: Promotes healthy digestion, supports heart health, and helps boost the immune system

Additional Information: Opal apples are a cross between Golden Delicious and Topaz varieties, resulting in their vibrant color and unique flavor. Due to their resistance to oxidation, they are perfect for slicing and storing without worrying about browning, making them a great choice for kid-friendly snacks.

19. Mutsu (Crispin) Apple

Mutsu, also known as Crispin, is a large, greenish-yellow apple variety with a sweet-tart flavor and firm texture. Its balanced taste makes it suitable for fresh eating and cooking and even as a base for apple cider.

Place of Origin: Japan
Nutritional Value: High in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium
Health Benefits: Helps lower cholesterol, aids in digestion, and supports bone health

Additional Information: Mutsu apples are a cross between Golden Delicious and Indo apples, making them versatile and flavorful. They are great for baking, as they hold their shape well and add a complex sweet-tart flavor to pies, crisps, and sauces.

20. Lady Alice Apple

Lady Alice apples have a sweet, crisp, and aromatic profile, making them a top choice for fresh eating and cooking. Their red and yellow striped skin adds visual appeal, and their firm texture ensures they hold up well under heat.

Place of Origin: Washington, USA
Nutritional Value: High in dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants
Health Benefits: Supports heart health, helps regulate blood sugar, and promotes digestive health

Additional Information: Lady Alice apples are known for their dense flesh and ability to retain their sweetness even when cooked. They are ideal for making baked apples, tarts, and other desserts. Their distinct flavor profile and long shelf life make them a premium choice for apple enthusiasts.

21. Jonagold Apple

Jonagold apples are a cross between Jonathan and Golden Delicious, combining the best features of both. They have a unique balance of sweetness and acidity with a juicy, crisp texture. Their large size and honeyed flavor make them excellent for fresh eating and baking.

Place of Origin: New York, USA
Nutritional Value: High in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and potassium
Health Benefits: Supports heart health, promotes good digestion, and helps in maintaining healthy blood pressure

Additional Information: Jonagold apples are a preferred choice for making tarts and pies, as their complex flavor and texture stand up well to heat. They are also great for caramelizing or adding to savory dishes due to their unique sweet-tart profile.

22. Rome Beauty Apple

Rome Beauty apples are known for their mildly sweet flavor and firm texture. They have a beautiful deep red skin and are mainly used in cooking and baking due to their ability to retain shape when cooked.

Place of Origin: Ohio, USA
Nutritional Value: High in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber
Health Benefits: Promotes digestive health, supports immune health, and helps maintain healthy skin

Additional Information: Rome Beauty apples are often called “baker’s buddies” for their ability to hold their form under high heat. Their sweet, subtle flavor becomes more pronounced when cooked, making them a popular choice for pies, baked apples, and stuffing.

23. Idared Apple

Idared apples have a tangy flavor and crisp, juicy flesh. They are versatile, with a beautiful red and green skin that makes them appealing for both fresh consumption and cooking.

Place of Origin: Idaho, USA
Nutritional Value: High in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants
Health Benefits: Supports a healthy immune system, promotes heart health, and aids in digestion

Additional Information: Idared apples are often used in sauces and baking due to their tangy flavor and smooth texture when cooked. They are also popular for making apple butter and cider, adding a sharp, refreshing taste to beverages and preserves.

24. Black Oxford Apple

Black Oxford apples are a lesser-known variety with a dark, almost black skin and a sweet, rich flavor. Their flesh is fine-grained and tender, making them ideal for both fresh eating and baking.

Place of Origin: Maine, USA
Nutritional Value: High in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium
Health Benefits: Supports bone health, boosts immunity, and promotes cardiovascular health

Additional Information: Black Oxford apples are known for their striking appearance and unique flavor profile. They store well and actually improve in taste over time, making them a great choice for winter consumption. Their deep, sweet flavor is perfect for desserts and apple preserves.

25. Ashmead’s Kernel Apple

Ashmead’s Kernel apples are an old English variety known for their intensely tart flavor and dense, crisp texture. They have a rough, russeted skin that may not look appealing, but their complex flavor is highly prized among apple connoisseurs.

Place of Origin: England
Nutritional Value: Rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber
Health Benefits: Supports skin health, promotes good digestion, and helps lower cholesterol

Additional Information: Ashmead’s Kernel apples are often used for making cider due to their strong, aromatic flavor. They are also great for adding a tangy kick to salads or serving with cheese, as their tartness complements savory ingredients beautifully.

26. Baldwin Apple

Baldwin apples are known for their spicy-sweet flavor and firm texture. They have a bright red skin and are used mainly for fresh eating and cooking. Their hardiness makes them suitable for colder climates.

Place of Origin: Massachusetts, USA
Nutritional Value: High in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium
Health Benefits: Helps support immune health, aids in digestion, and promotes heart health

Additional Information: Baldwin apples have a storied history in the United States and were once among the most popular varieties for making cider. Their dense flesh holds up well in baking, making them ideal for pies and crisps. They are also excellent for making apple chutneys and sauces.

27. Cox’s Orange Pippin Apple

Cox’s Orange Pippin is a classic English apple known for its aromatic, complex flavor with hints of citrus and spice. It has a fine, crisp texture and a beautiful orange-red skin, making it a premium choice for fresh consumption.

Place of Origin: England
Nutritional Value: High in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants
Health Benefits: Supports a healthy immune system, promotes good digestion, and provides anti-inflammatory benefits

Additional Information: Cox’s Orange Pippin is often considered a dessert apple due to its unique flavor profile. It’s best enjoyed fresh or in salads, as its delicate texture can break down quickly when cooked. This apple is highly sought after by apple enthusiasts for its unrivaled taste and aroma.

Wrap Up

Understanding the different types of apples not only enhances your culinary options but also allows you to enjoy their nutritional benefits in various ways.

From sweet to tart, firm to tender, there’s an apple variety to suit every palate and recipe.

The versatility and distinct qualities of these apples make them an essential addition to our balanced diet.

Choose your favorite type and enjoy the crisp, delicious goodness that apples have to offer, also let us know which one have you tried that couldn’t make a cut into our list.