Wondering how to keep those 10 (or 20 or 30!) pounds of fresh apples, well, fresh? Our guide helps you store your stash all winter long.
How to Store Apples to Last Through the Winter
For many people, autumn means one thing: apple season! Family and friends get together for that long-anticipated trip to the orchard to pick fresh apples, sip on cider and bite into warm cider donuts. Our favorite part? Heading home with bags and bags of apples. We love canning and making pies, but we’ll save most of the apples to eat throughout the winter.
Believe it or not, even apples we store in our basements until March are fresher than the ones in the grocery store. Store apples are doused in chemicals and stored for nearly a year before they even hit the shelves.
(You should be freezing these summer foods to use all year!)
At home, it’s easy to preserve an apple’s life through the winter! Follow these tips on how to store apples:
1. Choose the Right Kind
Before starting the storage process, make sure the apples are ones that keep well. They should have thicker skins and harder flesh. Thinks Granny Smith, McIntosh, Golden Delicious and Fuji. Grabbing an heirloom variety? Ask the farmer or vendor how long it will keep. (Many farmers will label apples as good storage fruit.)
2. Time Your Picking
Try to pick apples before they fully ripen. It’s easy to tell how ripe an apple is; just look at its color and taste it. If it’s not yet in full color and still has a bit of tartness to it, it’s ready to be picked for storage.
3. Examine Each Apple Closely
If you see any signs of bruising, rotting or cracks, and remove these for use right away. These apples will not store well, and if the apples are rotting, they will give off more ethylene and make nearby apples rot as well.
4. Place Apples in a Plastic Container
It’s best to store each type of apple in its own plastic container.
5. Go the Extra Mile
It’s optional, but to further prevent any possibility of a rotten apple touching other apples, you can wrap each one in newspaper. When it’s time to eat, wash off the apple to get rid of any newspaper ink that may have transferred.
6. Store Apples in a Cool, Dry Place
Somewhere between 35 and 40 degrees is ideal. The crisping drawer of a refrigerator works best, but if there’s not enough refrigerator space available, a garage, shed, or other sheltered outdoor area is fine. But it is extremely important to not let the apples freeze! This breaks down their cells, and they will become mushy when thawed. When it’s time to cut your apples, learn how to keep apples from browning.
7. Check Frequently
Make sure none have succumbed to any sort of rotting or bruising; remove any that are starting to go.
8. Use ‘Em Up
Once apples hit room temperature, they’ll ripen and spoil more quickly, so use them fast. Find our favorite apple recipes right here.
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.
Apple Gingerbread Skillet CakeThis gingerbread recipe came from my grandmother, and we always ate it with warm applesauce. I adapted it into a one-pan dessert by layering the apples around the bottom of a cast-iron skillet and topping them with the gingerbread batter. The skillet creates a wonderfully thick crust on the gingerbread. —Mary M. Leverette, Columbia, South Carolina
Granny’s Apple Scalloped PotatoesThis scalloped potatoes with apples dish is delicious with baked breaded pork chops, which you could cook at the same time in another cast-iron pan. We are retired, so it's just the two of us, but you could easily double the recipe to serve a crowd. —Shirley Rickis, The Villages, Florida
Slow-Cooked Pumpkin Apple CobblerThis spiced cobbler with apples and cranberries is sure to please all of your holiday guests. It is perfect for fall but can be made year-round since it uses fresh or frozen cranberries. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
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 German apple cake—an old-fashioned dessert that's so delicious, we keep making it today.
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 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
Pumpkin and Chicken Sausage HashThis can be served as a side or as the main dish for breakfast, lunch or dinner. I like to serve it topped with poached or fried eggs for breakfast. —Valerie Donn, Williamsburg, Michigan
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 and Walnut Stuffed Pork Tenderloin with Red Currant SauceMy roasted pork tenderloin is stuffed with two of our favorite ingredients: walnuts and apples. This comforting entree is my family's most requested pork dish. —Gloria Bradley, Naperville, Illinois
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.
Polish Kraut with ApplesThe combination of apples, sauerkraut and smoked sausage gives this hearty dinner an old-world flavor. I enjoy this, and it's so easy to make. —Caren Markee, Cary, Illinois
Upside-Down Apple Bacon PancakeI frequently cook Sunday brunch for my husband and myself, and I am always experimenting with new recipes. Apples picked from our tree were the inspiration behind these sweet and savory pancakes, which my husband quickly declared a keeper. —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
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.
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 only need 25 minutes to prep eight servings worth 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 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.
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-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.
Potluck German Apple CakeMy mother made this German apple cake for my brothers and me when we were kids. It's an excellent choice for a Christmas potluck or actually any time of year. —Edie DeSpain, Logan, Utah
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
