How To Store Apples

Apples are a delicious and versatile fruit that can be enjoyed in many ways, from pies and crumbles to salads and sandwiches.

However, to fully enjoy the flavor and texture of apples, it’s important to know how to store apples properly.

Storing apples correctly can help prevent spoilage, maintain their freshness, and preserve their flavor for longer.

In this post, we’ll go over some of the best practices for storing apples to help you keep them fresh and delicious for as long as possible.

Best ways to store apples

Apples are a staple fruit that can be enjoyed in many different forms. From pies to cider, apples are versatile and delicious.

However, storing apples properly is essential to maintaining their longevity and freshness. Here are some of the best ways to store whole and cut apples:

How to store whole apples

Whole apples should be stored in a cool, dark place with a temperature between 30 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

A pantry or root cellar is an ideal location to store whole apples. Avoid storing them near windows, in direct sunlight, or in the fridge, as the temperature can be too cold and cause the apples to lose their flavor.

It is also important to store whole apples in a ventilated container or basket. The ventilation allows for proper air circulation and prevents moisture buildup, which can cause them to spoil.

Avoid storing them in sealed bags or containers, as this can trap moisture and promote spoilage.

Most people don’t realize the importance of Sorting your apples by variety to prevent over-ripening or under-ripening of other apples.

Apples release ethylene gas as they ripen, which can cause other fruits and vegetables to spoil faster. Separating them by variety can help prevent this.

Also, find out on my blog how to store avocados or how to store grapes.

How to store cut apples

Storing cut apples can be a bit tricky as they tend to brown quickly once exposed to air. However, with a few simple tips, you can store cut apples properly to maintain their flavor and freshness.

In this section, we’ll discuss the best ways to store cut apples, so you can enjoy them in all your favorite recipes without sacrificing taste or texture.

Cut apples should be stored in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. Use a container with a tight-fitting lid to maintain freshness. Learn the best ways how to peel an apple in my next post.

Adding a splash of lemon juice is great for preventing your apples from browning after they have been cut. The acid in the lemon juice prevents browning and keeps the apples looking fresh.

Store them in the fridge will help to slow down the ripening process and keep them fresh for longer.

How to store apples long term

The best way to store apples long-term is to keep them in a cool, humid environment with proper ventilation.

The ideal temperature range for long-term apple storage is between 30-35°F, with a humidity level of 90-95%.

A cool basement, cellar, or unheated garage can work well. It’s important to pick firm, unblemished apples for long-term storage, and to remove any damaged or bruised apples from the batch.

Choose well-ventilated containers, such as wooden crates, baskets, or mesh bags, to store whole apples. You want to avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture and promote spoilage.

Check your apples regularly for signs of spoilage, and remove any spoiled apples immediately to prevent them from affecting the others.

With proper storage, apples can last for several months, allowing you to enjoy their crisp and juicy flavor well into the winter months.

Lots of people ask the same question, “can you freeze apples?” and the answer is YES! My next post has the steps on just how to do it.

Storage Location	Temperature	Shelf Life (Whole Apples)	Shelf Life (Cut Apples)
Room Temperature	65-75°F	1-2 Weeks	2-3 Hours
Refrigerator	32-40°F	4-6 Weeks	3-5 Days
Freezer	0°F	8-12 Months	10-12 Months

Conclusion

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the flavor and freshness of apples. Whether you’re storing whole apples or cut ones, it’s important to keep them in a cool, dark place with proper ventilation and moisture control.

Remember to check your apples regularly for signs of spoilage, and use them before they go bad.

By following these tips on how to store apples, you can enjoy delicious and fresh apples in all your favorite recipes for longer periods. So go ahead, stock up on your favorite varieties, and store them the right way!