Both the Black Diamond apple and the Arkansas Black apple have otherworldly purple-black skin. But one type is much easier to find than the other.
Black Diamond Apples Cost at Least $7 Each—Here’s Why
Updated on Dec. 01, 2023
Apples might just be everyone’s favorite fruit. They’re undeniably popular, starring in fall pies and crisps, galettes and tart cider, with cameos in Disney stories while also representing the world’s most renowned big-tech brand.
There are more than 7,500 types of apples grown around the world, but you’ll only find a dozen or in your grocery store. Beyond the tart Granny Smith, sweet Fuji and popular Gala, you probably haven’t tried most of the world’s apples.
And unless you’ve traveled to Tibet, chances are you haven’t taken a bite out of a rare Black Diamond apple!
Are Black Diamond Apples Real?
Named for its dark skin color, the Black Diamond apple breaks the red-and-green rules for most of the apples we see and eat. Though you might think this fruit resembles something from a fairy tale, we can assure you that black apples are real and safe to eat. They come from the Hua Niu—or Chinese Red Delicious—apple family, and although they don’t look like your normal Gala or Honeycrisp, black apples offer a crunch that’s sweeter than your standard varietal.
What Is a Black Diamond Apple?
This variation of apple is easily recognized by its distinct dark skin, which isn’t actually black, but a deep purple. The bold color is due to the dramatic temperature changes in the growing climate. Black Diamond apples receive large amounts of ultraviolet light exposure during the day, with extreme temperature drops at night. The result? A beautiful fruit with dark skin and a bright white pulp.
If you do get the chance to try this fruit, you’ll find that Black Diamond apples are sweeter than what you’d expect. These specific apples, though they may not look like it, have higher levels of organic sugars like glucose, making for a crisp, nectar-like bite.
Where to Buy Black Diamond Apples
You won’t find these apple anomalies growing in orchards in the States, or in the produce section at Trader Joe’s.
Black Diamond apples are grown in Nyingchi, a small, remote city in the mountainous region of Tibet. Unless you’re able to make your way to Asia and trek up through some mountain orchards, it’s likely you won’t be able to taste this variety of apple.
How Much Is a Black Diamond Apple?
The environment for growing Black Diamond apples is harsh, and it’s tough on the farmers who tend to them. Because of the mountainous climate, the seven to eight years it takes for Black Diamond apple trees to mature and the fact that they grow within a very limited time window, black apples are available for only about two months every year. You can expect them to be much pricier than what you’ll find from your local grocer.
Often, Black Diamond apples are only sold in high-end supermarkets in Asia, with individual fruits selling for between $7 and $20.
What Is an Arkansas Black Apple?
You may not be able to buy a Black Diamond apple any time soon. But a similar type of fruit is grown in the American South, and although tart in taste, the Arkansas Black apple closely resembles the Black Diamond apple in color. This heirloom fruit was first grown in Arkansas in the 1800s, when many family farmers had apple orchards. It can be stored in a cellar for months, where the apple’s waxy skin will protect it from spoiling.
The flavor of an Arkansas Black apple is tart when first picked, but in storage, it mellows into a sweeter apple with notes of honey, vanilla and almond.
Where to Buy Arkansas Black Apples
You can look for classic American heirloom apples like the Arkansas Black at small orchards and farmers markets, when apples are in season. You can also buy Arkansas Black apples directly from growers—or you can plant an Arkansas Black apple tree yourself!
The next apple type you need to know about is the Cosmic Crisp.
Apple Recipes to Try at Home
Apple Spice WafflesThese apple waffles are cozy and comforting anytime—morning or evening. The smell of toasty waffles with apples is sure to warm you up on even the most blustery of winter days. —Jane Sims, De Leon, Texas
Apple FrittersThis is an old southern apple fritter recipe. When we got home from a trip through the South years ago, I found the recipe among the brochures I brought back. I've been making these easy apple fritters ever since. —John Robbins, Springdale, Pennsylvania
While you're at it, learn how to make apple roses, too.
German Bratwurst with Sauerkraut and ApplesI created this old-world favorite based on a dish I had during my travels. The flavorful entree is perfect for weeknights or special occasions. I like to serve this slow-cooker bratwurst with pasta. —Gerald Hetrick, Erie, Pennsylvania
Slow-Cooker Apple CobblerMake slow-cooker apple cobbler for a warm dessert or as a special sweet treat for breakfast.
Dutch Apple CakeMy husband and I came to Canada from Holland more than 40 years ago. This traditional Dutch recipe is a family favorite and has frequently gone along with me to potluck suppers and other get-togethers. —Elizabeth Peters, Martintown, Ontario
Apple Butter Bread PuddingClassic bread pudding is given a boost with the addition of buttery croissants, spiced apple butter and a brown sugar streusel topping. This decadent croissant bread pudding works for brunch, dessert or an anytime treat.
Oma’s Apfelkuchen (Grandma’s Apple Cake)Embrace nostalgic flavors and homey feelings with apfelkuchen—an old-fashioned dessert recipe that's been deliciously prepped for more than 150 years.
Cranberry Apple StuffingOne Thanksgiving, I lost the recipe I planned to use, so I threw this cranberry stuffing together. My cousin Sandy, a die-hard traditional stuffing fan, said this was the best stuffing she’d ever tasted! Talk about a compliment! —Beverly Norris, Evanston, Wyoming
Banana ApplesauceThe recipe has evolved for the many years we have made it. This version has been a favorite at our Christmas dinners.—Judy Batson, Tampa, Florida
Pancake CasseroleThe batter for this pancake casserole is studded with cooked sausage and then topped with apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. It's a hot breakfast to share with the whole family!
Sage-Apple Cider BreadWho knew sage and apple cider would create such a fantastic bread? This versatile loaf that has just a hint of sweetness makes wonderful sandwiches or stuffing. —Christine Wendland, Browns Mills, New Jersey
Apple Peanut Butter CookiesThese apple peanut butter cookies are great for fall gatherings. They're crisp on the outside and soft inside. —Marjorie Benson, New Castle, Pennsylvania
Baked AppleBeyond a little prep work, this baked apple recipe takes care of itself in the oven and transforms into an aromatic, spicy and sweet dessert that comes into its own during fall apple season.
Apple-Stuffed Pork TenderloinReady in under an hour, this contest-winning apple stuffed pork tenderloin combines juicy pork with a savory-sweet apple filling. With just 30 minutes of prep, you'll create a flavor-packed dish that's perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Apple Pie Ricotta WafflesI had apples and ricotta cheese to use up, so instead of making a pie I decided to do something different. The result was these fluffy, tender waffles with just a hint of sweetness. —Teri Rasey, Cadillac, Michigan
Apple Spice CakeThis apple spice cake combines the sweetness of Honeycrisp apples with warm spices and a rich cream cheese frosting, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion—or just because.
Kielbasa and SauerkrautYou'll love this hearty kielbasa and sauerkraut meal on cold winter nights. The tender apples, kraut and smoked sausage give it a heartwarming old-world flavor, and it's a bonus that the prep time is short.
Hot CiderI dress up apple cider using lemonade, orange juice, honey and spices for a new version of the classic fall beverage. —Glenna Tooman, Boise, Idaho
Cast-Iron Apple Nutmeg Coffee CakeI'm not a great baker, but I do love coffee. In an effort to practice my baking, I use up the morning's last bit of coffee to make this cake—literally. It is super moist and crumbly, and tastes as if you dunked your cake right into a cup of hot joe. —Darla Andrews, Schertz, Texas
Apple, Butternut and Sausage DressingI'd heard about using squash in dressing, so I combined four things I love into one dish: apples, butternut squash, bacon and maple sausage! Now, it's one of the most requested dishes during the holidays. —Brenda Crouch, Ansley, Nebraska
Apple Cranberry Upside-Down CakesCornmeal gives this upside-down cake a unique texture. Apples, cranberries and pecan make a delicious alternative to the typical pineapple and cherries. —Margee Berry, Trout Lake, Washington
Apple SconesFlakey, moist and brimming with fall flavor, these apple scones are the ideal breakfast treat for a chilly autumn morning. Serve with a caramel drizzle over the top as the recipe calls for, or make them your own with a cinnamon-sugar sprinkle that complements the apples baked inside.
Apple CrostataThis apple crostata recipe has firm apple slices covered with cinnamon sugar and a drizzle of caramel topping, resting in a simple dough circle. This is a terrific dessert to make when you don't want to bother with shaping and blind-baking a pie crust.
Cranberry Apple CrispFor a tart twist on an old-fashioned dessert favorite, try this apple cranberry crisp.
Apple Pork LoinLearn how to make slow cooker apple pork loin, a deliciously flavored combination of tender pork and sweet apples.
Air-Fryer Apple FrittersA lighter take on the classic treat, these air fryer apple fritters feature tender bites of apple encased in a fluffy, cinnamon-spiced dough.
Slow-Cooked Bread PuddingThis warm and hearty dessert is perfect on any cold, blustery winter evening. And the slow cooker fills your kitchen with an amazing aroma. My stomach is growling just thinking about it! —Maiah Albi, Carlsbad, California
Autumn Pork RoastAlthough this main meal captures the fabulous flavor of fall, don't hesitate to serve it throughout the year. Your family will flock to the table when they smell this delicious roast. It's a hearty dish that makes everyday dinners more special.—Kathy Barbarek, Joliet, Illinois
German Apple PancakeIf you're looking for a pretty dish to make when having guests for brunch, try this. Everyone I've served it to has enjoyed it—except for one time, that is, when my husband tried to make it following my recipe, which I'd written down incorrectly! If you don't leave out the flour as I did, it'll turn out terrific! —Judi Van Beek, Lynden, Washington
Grilled Apple Tossed SaladThe grilled apples in this salad combine so well with the blue cheese, walnuts and balsamic dressing. I like to serve it on pink Depression glass dessert plates from my great-grandmother. —Paul Soska, Toledo, Ohio
Apple Pie Egg RollsThe ingenious use of the air fryer makes this contest-winning recipe as crispy as can be! Plus, you need only 25 minutes to prep eight servings of apple pie egg rolls.
Apple CrispEvery bite of this apple crisp has tart, tender apples and a cinnamon streusel topping. It smells like heaven when it's baking too!
Pressure-Cooker Pork with Apples and Dried PlumsThe classic flavors of herbes de Provence, apples and dried plums make this easy cooked pork taste like a hearty meal at a French country cafe. For a traditional pairing, serve the pork with braised lentils. —Suzanne Banfield, Basking Ridge, New Jersey
Apple KolachesA fellow home cook shared this recipe for a sweet, fruit-filled pastry. My son, who isn’t a dessert fan, was disappointed when he came home to find his dad had polished off the last kolache in the batch. —Ann Johnson, Evansville, Indiana
Apple Cider-Glazed HamWhen I wanted to try something new with our holiday ham, I created this cider glaze. It's slightly sweet but still has the spicy flavor my family craves. —Rebecca LaWare, Hilton, New York
Apple Salsa with Cinnamon ChipsBoth my husband and I were raised on farms, and we prefer home cooking to eating out. That works out fine since I love trying new recipes! I've served this apple salsa as an appetizer and a snack. Plus, it's sweet enough to be a dessert. It's easy to transport besides. —Carolyn Brinkmeyer, Golden, Colorado
Oatmeal Caramel Apple CookiesHomemade caramel apple cookies are a fall favorite. They combine the rich flavors of caramel, brown sugar, oats and fresh apples. Easy to make and perfect for the season, these cookies offer a delightful taste of autumn with every bite.
Apple Pie CupcakesTurn the classic cupcake into a fall favorite with our rendition of apple pie cupcakes. Filled with a sweet apple mixture and topped with cinnamon frosting, these cupcakes taste just like apple pie!
Acorn Squash with Cranberry StuffingIf you have squash or cranberry lovers at the table, here’s your new go-to recipe. It’s colorful, the blend of flavors is delicious and it’s a fitting addition to a Thanksgiving menu. —Dorothy Pritchett, Wills Point, Texas
Upside-Down Apple PieThis pie has won eight ribbons at area fairs. People say it looks and tastes like a giant apple-cinnamon bun. I take time off from work around the holidays to fill pie requests from family and friends. The recipe has become everyone's favorite. —Susan Frisch, Germansville, Pennsylvania
Don't forget to check out this easy fried apple pie recipe.
Apple Pie BitesThese apple pie bites are fun for kids to make. Simply wrap strips of pastry around apple wedges and shake on some cinnamon-sugar. Then just bake and watch them disappear! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
“Everything” StuffingMy family goes crazy for this stuffing that I make in the slow cooker. It freezes well so we can enjoy it long after Thanksgiving has passed. —Bette Votral, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Apple Cider DoughnutsA batch of these apple cider doughnuts will have you feeling like it's peak fall season, no matter the time of year.
Apple StrudelThe ideal fall recipe has arrived: the apple strudel. Filled with a gooey inside and wrapped in a golden, flaky outer crust, this apple strudel is as pretty as it is delicious.
Apple Chicken QuesadillasMy sister came up with an easy recipe that can be served as a main course or an appetizer. People are surprised by the combination of chicken, apples, tomatoes and corn inside the crispy tortillas, but they love it. —Stacia Slagle of Maysville, Missouri
Glazed Apple-Maple BlondiesMy 6-year-old son and I conjured up this recipe to use the last of the apples we picked from the local apple orchard. Each bar goes beautifully with a dollop of sweetened whipped cream. —Heather Bates, Athens, Maine
Apple & Cheddar Mini SconesBecause cheese and sage go so well with apples, I decided to put them all in scones. These mini treats make a fall weekend brunch, tailgate or party even more fun. —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Apple PieI remember coming home sullen one day because we'd lost a softball game. Grandma, in her wisdom, suggested that maybe a slice of hot apple pie would make me feel better. She was right. —Maggie Greene, Granite Falls, Washington. Next, try this apple pie with cheese.
Pork Chops with ApplesFor this version of pork chops and apples, you can serve the apple on the side or smother the chops with sauce. Either way, you’ve got a classic pairing of sweet pork, tart apple and aromatic spices.
Apple Pie FillingOur apple pie filling recipe cooks sugar-and-spiced apple pieces that keep their shape after cooking, thanks to a handy freezer-canning preservation.
Apple-Spice Angel Food CakeI dressed up an angel food cake mix with some nuts, spice and applesauce to make an easy and light dessert. I serve it with a dollop of whipped topping mixed with a half cup of sour cream. —Joan Buehnerkemper, Teutopolis, Illinois
Butternut Squash Apple BakeEven those who aren't fans of squash enjoy this side dish. Sweet slices of butternut squash are topped with apples covered in a cinnamon-sugar glaze for a quick and easy dinner accompaniment. —Ellie Klopping, Toledo, Ohio
Slow-Cooker Pork and Apple CurryHere's a gentle curry dish that's sure to please American palates. For fun, try varying the garnish—add a few chopped peanuts or a little chutney. —Nancy Reck, Mill Valley, California
Festive Apple DipI came up with this layered peanut butter treat when my dad gave me a big bag of apples. The dip has been one of my favorites ever since. In addition to serving it with apples, try it with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, banana chunks or animal crackers. —Theresa Tometich, Coralville, Iowa
German Red CabbageThis inexpensive red cabbage recipe makes a tender, tasty vegetable side dish. It's traditionally German, but it pairs well with all kinds of foods, in every season.
Apple BarsCheck out our classic apple bars recipe in time for fall baking season.
Apple-Almond MuffinsI like to snack on apple slices slathered with almond butter. That's the flavor combo that inspired these muffins. Add a dash of almond extract to boost the nuttiness. —Kelly Alesso, Chicago, IL
Apple-Sage Sausage PattiesApple and sausage naturally go together. Add sage, and you’ve got some standout patties. They’re freezer friendly, so I make them ahead and grab when needed. —Scarlett Elrod, Newnan, Georgia
Apple Feta SaladSo long, sad desk salad! This apple feta salad is your answer to tastier lunches on-the-go, and it works equally well as a fresh, crispy side dish with a savory protein at dinner.
German Apple CakeBursting with pieces of juicy apple, warmly spiced with cinnamon and crowned with a sweet cloud of cream cheese frosting, this German apple cake is perfect for fall.
Caramel Apple CrispCaramel apple crisp takes less effort than a pie and it's just as tasty with vanilla ice cream! For a bakery-quality twist, add caramel to this buttery, crumbly dessert.
Pecan Apple PancakesWeekend brunches are a big deal here in Texas, and these sweet, well-spiced pancakes make any breakfast special. So put on your apron and invite the neighbors in! —Sharon Richardson, Dallas, Texas
Snickers SaladSnickers salad may not be a traditional green salad, but it is a midwestern specialty. Bring this easy one-bowl dessert to your next potluck and watch it disappear!
Grain-Free Apple Pie GranolaBecause of food allergies, I’ve learned to swap ingredients. There are no grains in this granola but loads of nuts and apples. Try it with yogurt or milk. —Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas
Apple-Cranberry GrainsI made some changes to my diet in order to lose weight. My kids are skeptical when it comes to healthy food, but they adore these wholesome grains. —Sherisse Dawe, Black Diamond, Alberta
Apple Brown Betty RecipeWith warm spices and crisp bread crumbs, an apple brown betty is a perfectly fruity dessert without all the work of a pie.
Apple Pear Coffee CakeA friend gave me this apple pear coffee cake recipe to make for a breakfast I was hosting. The pan was empty before the breakfast was over! It's one of my most-requested recipes, probably because it's a bit different. —Joanne Hoschette, Paxton, Massachusetts
Apple Cranberry Slab PieMy husband loves pie, so I made one with apples, raspberries and cranberries. It’s so good, I bend the rules and let the grandkids have it for breakfast. —Brenda Smith, Curran, Michigan
Chunky ApplesauceCook up a warm, comforting batch of chunky applesauce with tart apples and cinnamon. Ready in just 30 minutes, this simple recipe is ideal for fall.
Northwoods Wild Rice SaladThis is my Minnesota version of a vintage German slaw that’s popular at church suppers. The wild rice has a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with tangy sauerkraut. —Jeanne Holt, St. Paul, Minnesota
Apple FrittersJust like Gramm used to make on Saturday mornings! You can sprinkle glaze with chopped pecans before it dries or add chopped pecans into the batter along with the apples...the possibilities are endless. —Teri Schloessmann, Tulsa, Oklahoma
Apple ChipsIf you’ve never indulged in air-fryer apple chips, you’re in for a treat. They’re essentially dehydrated apple crisps, that can be enjoyed as a healthy, crispy and crunchy snack to serve as an alternative to potato chips. The best part, they crisp up in just 15 minutes. —Jenna Urben, McKinney, Texas
Apple Fritter BreadThis is everything you adore about apple fritters in a cozy little loaf, including tender bits of juicy apple, a fragrant cinnamon filling and a generous drizzle of vanilla glaze. Serve while still warm and get ready to wow your taste testers. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Stewed ApplesJonathan apples are my favorite type, introduced to me by my husband's grandmother. We really like them stewed, so I came up with a recipe that is just about the best thing you ever put in your mouth. This works well with any good cooking apple that holds its shape. —Pat Dorward, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
