The Apple of Chefs’ Eyes: Why Honeycrisp Apples Shine

If you grew up in a world where the choice of apples was often limited to the bland Red Delicious or the tart Granny Smith, it’s time to rediscover the apple universe. With over 7,000 varieties out there, your palate is about to experience a delightful transformation. When it comes to snacking or slicing an apple for your toast, one name rises above the rest: the Honeycrisp. Let’s dive deep into why this apple holds a special place in the hearts of chefs and culinary enthusiasts alike.

Why Chefs Love Honeycrisp Apples

The resounding favorite among chefs, Honeycrisp apples are celebrated for their perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Executive chef Ryan Jones from Free Reign Restaurants in Charleston, South Carolina, hails the Honeycrisp as his ultimate snacking apple. “The crunch and flavor make every bite a pleasure,” he remarks, underscoring the apple’s enticing combination of sweet and tart notes.

Tatiana Mora, chef-owner of MITA in Washington, D.C., echoes this sentiment. She describes Honeycrisp apples as “the queen of apples for enjoying raw,” praising their unmatched crunch, juiciness, and refreshing flavor burst. Mora recommends using Honeycrisp slices in salads featuring fennel, arugula, or walnuts, showcasing their versatility beyond mere snacking.

Sue Zemanick, a celebrated chef from Zasu in New Orleans, adds her voice to the chorus. Sharing how she enjoys her Honeycrisp apple with sharp cheddar and a drizzle of hot honey, Zemanick demonstrates how these apples elevate simple pairings into sophisticated snacks.

Karen Akunowicz, a James Beard Award-winning chef, also places Honeycrisp among her favorites. “Every bite feels like pure joy,” she reveals. She emphasizes how this apple shares stage with Granny Smith, appreciating each for their unique flavor profiles.

Even corporate executive chef Matthew Niessner lists Honeycrisp as a go-to when he craves something fresh. “They have lovely flavors and that satisfying crunch,” he explains.

About the Honeycrisp Apple

Honeycrisp is a relatively recent addition to the apple lineage, developed at the University of Minnesota’s Horticultural Research Center and released in 1991. Its first commercial appearance came in 1997, and it quickly captured the public’s imagination with its exceptional sweetness, firmness, and crisp texture. Today, Honeycrisp ranks as one of the four most produced apple varieties in the U.S., contributing nearly 10% to the national production of 48 million bushels.

However, this apple isn’t without its challenges. Jones notes that Honeycrisp apples are somewhat tricky to grow and have a shorter shelf life. This premium on freshness means you might pay more to pick your own Honeycrisp apples compared to other varieties.

What Makes a Good Snacking Apple

When we think of snacking apples, the qualities we’re after are typically juicy, crisp, and bear a pleasant contrast of sweetness and acidity. This stands in contrast to cooking apples, which often tend to be softer and more acidic by nature — ideal for creating sauces, pies, and other baked goods. The best snacking apples, such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Cameo, offer that delightful crunch and a burst of juice that makes for a refreshing bite.

For those looking to indulge in baking, varieties like McIntosh, Golden Delicious, and tart Granny Smith shine in the kitchen for their ability to break down and meld together beautifully in recipes.

How to Select an Apple

Whether you’re shopping at a local market or picking apples at a farm, selecting the right apple can make all the difference. Chef Caroline Fey offers some great insights on what to look for. A heavy apple generally means more juice inside. Check for any bruises, and give the skin a close examination — it should be tight, not wrinkled or soft. Don’t forget to check the apple’s fragrance: a sweet aroma often indicates freshness.

Mora suggests a gentle tap test as well. If the apple sounds hollow, chances are it’s perfectly crisp. These simple checks can elevate your apple game, ensuring you take home the best of the harvest.

The Bottom Line

With their unique flavor, juiciness, and satisfying crunch, Honeycrisp apples have rightfully earned the title of favorite among chefs and apple lovers alike. This relatively new variety continues to inspire new generations of apple enthusiasts and culinary innovators. Whether you are exploring the aisles of your grocery store, visiting farmers’ markets, or picking your own from an orchard, look out for Honeycrisp apples that boast firm, blemish-free skin and a full, juicy weight. Rediscover what it means to truly enjoy an apple, and allow the Honeycrisp to elevate your snacking experience.