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The 5 Best Substitutes for Granny Smith Apples

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While there are many types of apples out there, the Granny Smith apple is a classic.

These apples are tart and crispy, making them perfect for baking.

But what if you don’t have a Granny Smith apple on hand?

In this article, we’ll give you the 5 best substitutes for Granny Smith apples that will work in any recipe.

What is Granny Smith Apple?

The Granny Smith apple is a crisp, tart variety that is perfect for baking and cooking.

Originally from Australia, the Granny Smith apple was first grown by Maria Ann Smith in the 1860s.

The apple gets its name from Maria’s nickname, “Granny Smith”.

Today, Granny Smith apples are grown all over the world.

They are famous for their bright green color and firm texture.

Granny Smith apples are excellent for baking because they hold their shape well and don’t turn mushy when cooked.

They are also great for eating fresh or using in salads.

To get the most flavor out of a Granny Smith apple, be sure to let it ripen fully before eating or cooking.

Once ripe, the apple will be soft to the touch and have a rich, tart flavor.

The 5 Best Substitutes for Granny Smith Apple

If you’re in a pinch and need a green apple for baking or cooking, don’t despair—there are plenty of substitutes that will work just as well.

Here are the five best substitutes for Granny Smith apples.

1 – Honeycrisp Apple

The Honeycrisp apple is a relatively new variety that was only introduced in the 1990s.

However, it has quickly become one of the most popular types of apples, thanks to its distinctive taste and texture.

The Honeycrisp apple is significantly sweeter than other varieties, such as the Granny Smith apple.

It also has a crisp, crunchy texture that makes it perfect for eating raw.

If you’re looking for a substitution for the Granny Smith apple in a recipe, the Honeycrisp apple is a good choice.

Its sweetness means that you may need to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe, but it will still give you the desired tartness.

2 – Golden Delicious Apple

The Golden Delicious apple is a popular variety that is known for its sweet, mellow flavor.

The flesh of the Golden Delicious is creamy white and very tender, making it a good choice for eating out of hand.

However, it can also be used in pies and other baked goods.

The Golden Delicious apple is often used as a substitute for the Granny Smith apple, as they have a similar texture and sweetness levels.

When substituting Golden Delicious apples for Granny Smiths, it is important to keep in mind that the Golden Delicious will cook down more quickly.

As a result, you may need to use slightly less fruit in your recipe.

3 – Braeburn Apple

The Braeburn apple is a variety of apples that was first discovered in New Zealand.

It is characterized by its crispness, sweetness, and slightly tart flavor.

The Braeburn apple is an excellent choice for baking and can be used as a substitute for the Granny Smith apple.

When baked, the Braeburn apple retains its shape and does not become mushy like some other types of apples.

It is also a good choice for applesauce, as it adds a lovely sweetness to the sauce without being too overpowering.

If you are looking for an apple that is both delicious and versatile, the Braeburn apple is a great choice.

4 – Rome Apple

The Rome apple is a type of culinary apple that is ideal for baking and cooking.

It has a slightly tart flavor and a firm, dense texture.

When substituting for the Granny Smith apple in recipes, the Rome apple will provide similar results.

The main difference is that the Rome apple is not as tart as the Granny Smith, so it may require a bit more sugar or another sweetener in order to achieve the desired flavor.

The Rome apple is also a good choice for applesauce, as it holds its shape well during cooking and provides a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.

5 – Jonathan Apple

Jonathan apples are a type of apple that is incredibly versatile.

They can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, and their taste and texture make them a perfect substitute for Granny Smith apples.

Jonathan apples are slightly tart, with a hint of sweetness.

They have a crisp texture that makes them perfect for baking.

When substituting Jonathan apples for Granny Smith apples, it is important to remember that they will soften quicker during cooking.

As a result, it is best to add them to recipes toward the end of the cooking process.

With their versatility and delicious taste, Jonathan apples are a great addition to any kitchen.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are a variety of apples that can be used as substitutes for Granny Smith apples.

Each type of apple has its own unique flavor and texture, so it is important to choose the right apple for the dish you are creating.

Braeburn, Rome, and Jonathan apples are all excellent choices for substituting in recipes.

With their versatile flavors and textures, they are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

So next time you are in the mood for something different, why not try one of these delicious apples? You may be surprised at how much you enjoy them.

The 5 Best Substitutes for Granny Smith Apples

Recipe by Andrew Gray Course: Substitutes
Servings

1

Serving
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

10

minutes
Calorieskcal
Total time

20

minutes

Ingredients

  • Honeycrisp Apple

  • Golden Delicious Apple

  • Braeburn Apple

  • Rome Apple

  • Jonathan Apple

Directions

  • Pick your favorite substitute from the list above.
  • Follow cooking directions for your selected substitute with the proper ratio of ingredients.

Recipe Video

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