How To Store Apples For Maximum Shelf Life

Storing apples correctly is essential to get the most out of them. After all, you want your store-bought apples to stay fresh and crunchy for as long as possible. If you’re wondering how to store apples so they last longer, we’ve got the answers.

We’ll explain how to store apples for maximum shelf life and how to keep them from going bad, with no root cellar required.

⬇️ Table of Contents

Best Way To Store Apples So They Stay Fresh
What Are The Best Apples For Storage?
Storing Apples In A Cellar
When it Comes to Apples, Timing is Everything
How To Freeze Apples
Do Apples Last Longer In The Fridge Or On The Counter?
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The key to storing apples properly is keeping them in a cool, dry, dark place. Refrigeration is ideal, but if you cannot refrigerate them, a cool spot away from direct sunlight will do just fine.

You also want to avoid storing apples with other fruits or vegetables since this can cause accelerated ripening.

When it comes time to use your stored apples, be sure to inspect each one carefully before eating it or using it for cooking. If any look spoiled or overly soft, discard them promptly. Lastly, try using older apples first so that your fresher ones are used at their peak flavor and texture.

In professional kitchens, this method is called FIFO, which stands for "First In, First Out."

Best Way To Store Apples So They Stay Fresh

Storing apples for a long period of time can be a hassle. That's why it's important to keep them fresh and store them in the right way.

The first step in properly storing apples is choosing an unblemished, unbruised apple variety from a preferred storage apple variety. Bruised or cut apples will go bad quite quickly and can easily ruin an entire batch (hence the phrase “one bad apple spoils the whole bunch”).

Apples with stems store a touch longer than those without, so if you can pick apples with the stems on, go for it.

Follow these tips to store apples all winter long:

Store apples at a temperature between 36 and 40 degrees F to keep them fresh.
Place apples in a dark, cool environment where they will get plenty of oxygenation.
Do not stack apples on top of each other or pack them tightly – this can lead to browning and spoilage. This will cause them to ripen faster due to the extra heat and moisture accumulation and end up as bad apples.
To prevent green apple spots, wash the apples before storing them.
Apples release a gas called ethylene, so don't store them near bananas or tomatoes, as ethylene gas will ripen them faster.

What Are The Best Apples For Storage?

When choosing the best apple varieties, selecting the ones with the proper storage characteristics is essential. The best apples for storage are firm, crisp, and have a good amount of tartness.

Not all apples can be stored equally; some varieties are better suited for long-term storage than others. Some of the best varieties for apple storage include Honeycrisp, Fuji, Granny Smith, and Braeburn apples.

These types have firm flesh and thick skin, so they’re more resistant to bruising and other damage during months in storage. Avoid softer varieties like Red Delicious or Jonathan apples, as these won't last as long in storage.

Look for apples that are free of blemishes and soft spots. Avoid apples with any sign of decay, such as brown or mushy spots. They should also be free from any signs of pests, such as worms.

Storing Apples In A Cellar

Storing apples in a cellar can be a great way to keep them fresh for longer. However, some potential risks should be considered.

The cellar's temperature must be carefully monitored - if it's too warm, the apples may rot.
There is a risk of contamination from other produce or pests such as rodents and insects.
Humidity levels must also be taken into consideration. If the air is too moist, this can cause mould or mildew to grow on the apples or encourage larvae and other organisms to feed on them.
Oxygen levels must be monitored as low oxygen levels can cause spoilage and decay.

In order to avoid these issues, it is important to inspect the cellar regularly and ensure that the environment is suitable for storing apples safely.

When it Comes to Apples, Timing is Everything

The exact timing to pick apples harvesting apples varies depending on the variety and where in the world you live. For example, some varieties may be ready for picking late in August, while others might not be ready to harvest until October or November.

Generally speaking, fall is a great time of year for harvesting apples because many varieties reach peak sweetness and flavor at this time.

How To Freeze Apples

Apples are a delicious and healthy snack, but they can go bad quickly if not stored properly. freezing apples after they've been peeled, cored, and sliced is the best way to store them for long-term apple storage.

Slice the apples into thin slices using a sharp knife or an apple slicer, and freeze for 2-4 hours.

Lower The Temperature

This simple apple freezing hack will keep apples fresh for longer. Wrap the apples in aluminum foil, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze for 3-4 hours or until solid.

Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 6 months. To defrost overnight, take the apples out of the fridge or at room temperature.

Add Humidity

Adding humidity to apples is a great way to keep them fresh and crunchy.

1. Clean apples well and dry them before freezing them. This will help keep their shape and ensure they don't turn into apple crisps.

2. Add a few drops of water to the bag before placing the apple inside it; this will help maintain humidity levels inside the freezer compartment.

3. Freezing, they last for up to 6 months when stored this way properly,

Do Apples Last Longer In The Fridge Or On The Counter?

The Fridge vs. The Counter?
When it comes to keeping your apples fresh, there are many factors to consider. Generally speaking, if you want to keep your apples fresh for the most extended period of time, then the refrigerator is the best place for them.

This is because cold temperatures slow down ripening and prevent spoilage from bacteria and other microorganisms. However, when stored in the refrigerator, some types of apples can become mealy or lose their flavor quicker than when kept at room temperature.

In contrast, when stored at room temperature, most types of apples will last up to one week before they start to soften and become less crisp. If you want your apples to stay crisp for as long as possible, then storing them on a cool countertop away from direct sunlight is your best bet.

This way, they won’t be exposed to extreme temperatures or humidity which can make them spoil faster than expected. You should also avoid storing them near any heat sources, such as an oven or stovetop, which can cause them to overripen quickly.

Can Apples Be Stored For A Year?

Yes, apples can be stored for a year. The best is to use a root cedar or freeze them.
Non-Frozen: The best way to do this is to store them in a cool, dark place with low humidity. Apples should be kept in a plastic or mesh bag, or wrap each apple with newspaper, to help promote airflow ventilation and keep them fresh for longer.