Empire (apple)

A variety of apple developed in New York

 This article is about the apple variety.
   For other uses, see Empire (disambiguation).

Empire apples on display

The Empire apple is a cultivar of apple that was developed in the state of New York, United States. It is a cross between the popular McIntosh and Red Delicious apples. The Empire apple is known for its crisp texture, sweet-tart flavor, and versatility in both fresh consumption and cooking.

History

The Empire apple was developed at the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station in Geneva, New York, in the 1940s. The breeding program aimed to combine the best qualities of the McIntosh and Red Delicious apples. The Empire apple was officially released to the public in 1966.

Characteristics

Close-up of Empire apples

The Empire apple is medium-sized with a round shape. Its skin is bright red with faint white speckles, and it often has a slight greenish hue near the stem. The flesh is creamy white, firm, and juicy. The flavor is a balanced mix of sweetness and tartness, making it a popular choice for eating fresh.

Cultivation

Empire apples are grown primarily in the northeastern United States, particularly in New York. They thrive in temperate climates and are typically harvested in the fall. The trees are known for their hardiness and resistance to common apple diseases, making them a favorite among apple growers.

Uses

Empire apples are versatile and can be used in a variety of culinary applications. They are excellent for fresh eating, salads, and fruit platters. Their firm texture holds up well in baking, making them suitable for pies, crisps, and other baked goods. Empire apples are also used in making applesauce and cider.

Related pages

• McIntosh (apple)
• Red Delicious
• New York State Agricultural Experiment Station
• Apple