Summary of Washington Apple Varieties
Washington apples are renowned across the nation and globally. For locals, these delicious fruits are not just popular; they are a staple and recognized as among the best foods in the state. While you can cultivate various apple types in backyard gardens, grocery stores in Washington often feature multiple apple varieties. Apple season kicks off in mid-August and lasts well into the fall, although apples are available year-round with seasonal price variations.
Annually, over 100 million boxes of apples are harvested, with each box weighing approximately 40 pounds, according to BestApples.com. Remarkably, no machine has been created for apple harvesting; thus, every apple you purchase from Washington has been carefully handpicked.
Numerous apple varieties are cultivated in Washington State, but nine primary varieties dominate production: Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Gala, Fuji, Granny Smith, Braeburn, Honeycrisp, Cripps Pink, and Cameo. Each type presents a unique taste and texture, likely leading to the discovery of personal favorites.
Red Delicious
Red Delicious apples are Washington’s most exported variety, accounting for nearly 50 percent of the state’s apple exports. Comprising about 30 percent of the total harvest, this historic variety has been cultivated since the 1880s. Over the years, however, it has seen a decline in popularity as other varieties, like Fuji and Gala, have risen in favor.
Best Use: Eaten fresh or in salads.
Available: All year.
Golden Delicious
Golden Delicious apples, identified for their sweet, crisp nature, originated in West Virginia in 1914. Eastern Washington’s climate favors these apples, making them versatile for consumption—whether fresh or in cooking.
Best Use: Extremely versatile; great for baking, fresh eating, and salads.
Available: All year.
Gala
Galas combine a crisp texture with a mild flavor, making them particularly appealing to children. This variety emerged in New Zealand in 1965 and is now a common crop in Washington.
Best Use: Eat fresh, in salads, or for baking.
Available: September to May, often year-round due to cold storage.
Fuji
The Fuji apple, a hybrid of Red Delicious and Ralls Janet created in Japan during the 1960s, has gained immense popularity in Washington, often surpassing its home country in production. They deliver a crisp, slightly sweet flavor that is beloved by many.
Best Use: Excellent for fresh consumption or in salads; versatile for pies and sauces as well.
Available: October to August; often available year-round due to cold storage.
Granny Smith
Originating from Australia, the Granny Smith apple was discovered in 1868 by Maria Smith. These apples are notably tart and crisp, gaining popularity in Washington for their versatility in culinary uses.
Best Use: Versatile; delicious fresh, in salads, or baked, and freezes well.
Available: Harvested starting in October but often available all year.
Braeburn
Braeburn apples are praised for their mildly tart flavor, making them a favorite among baking enthusiasts. Their unique blend of sweetness and crispness allows for enjoyable fresh eating as well.
Best Use: Suitable for baking and fresh eating.
Available: October to July.
Honeycrisp
The Honeycrisp apple, developed by the University of Minnesota, combines crispness, sweetness, and a hint of tartness. This delightful balance makes it a fantastic option for raw consumption, similar to the Fuji variety.
Best Use: Excellent for fresh eating; also good for baking and salads.
Available: Harvested in early to mid-autumn; availability may vary in out-of-season months.
Cripps Pink or Pink Lady
Cripps Pink, commonly known as Pink Lady, is harvested later than other varieties in Washington, requiring around 200 days on the tree to develop its tart and crispy characteristics. This apple variety was created in Australia through a crossbreeding process.
Best Use: Great for salads and pies, can also be enjoyed raw.
Available: November to August.
Cameo
Cameo apples were discovered in Washington as a chance seedling, likely a hybrid of Red Delicious and Golden Delicious. Recognized for their crunchy texture and sweet flavor, they serve multiple culinary purposes.
Best Use: Highly versatile; suitable for baking, fresh eating, and salads.
Available: October to August.
