# NY STATE APPLES EMPIRE
Empire apples from New York are a premium variety that perfectly combines crisp texture with a naturally sweet flavor profile. These medium-sized red apples feature a deep crimson color with occasional striping, making them visually striking in any kitchen or fruit bowl. Grown in the fertile orchards of New York State, Empire apples are harvested at peak ripeness to deliver exceptional taste and quality. This hybrid variety, created by crossing McIntosh and Red Delicious apples, offers the best of both worlds: tender flesh with a satisfying crunch and balanced sweetness with subtle tartness.
Empire apples are incredibly versatile for both fresh eating and cooking applications. Slice them fresh into salads where their crisp texture holds up beautifully, or enjoy them straight as a nutritious snack packed with fiber and vitamin C. These baking apples are ideal for pies, crisps, cobblers, and sauce because they maintain their shape while cooking and develop rich, complex flavors when heated. The natural pectin content makes Empire apples excellent for homemade preserves and compotes. They pair wonderfully with cinnamon, nutmeg, and caramel, making them perfect for autumn desserts and holiday baking projects.
To maximize freshness, store Empire apples in a cool location or refrigerator where they keep for several weeks. For baking, select slightly firmer apples and peel them just before use to prevent browning. These New York apples are wonderful sliced with sharp cheddar cheese for a classic American pairing, or combined with other heirloom varieties for interesting flavor complexity in your favorite recipes. Whether you're creating a rustic apple pie, preparing a fresh morning snack, or making wholesome applesauce, New York State Empire apples deliver consistent quality and delicious results every time.