What are Cosmic Crisp® Apples?

Hello readers! My name is Elizabeth, and I love turning my favorite fruits into delicious snacks, but am also all about simplicity!

I graduated from Eastern Washington University with a journalism degree and have always had a passion for writing and storytelling. I am excited to be pairing my love for journaling with health and wellness and mindful food preparations!

What are Cosmic Crisp® Apples?

Speaking of healthy and simple foods, Cosmic Crisp® apples are a perfect snack to satisfy a sweet tooth. But first, you may be wondering, what are Cosmic Crisp® apples? This apple was developed by an apple breeder and horticulturist from Washington State University, Bruce Barritt. After over 20 years of cross-pollinating and taste-testing with the help of WSU’s tree fruit breeding program, the Cosmic Crisp® was born!

This apple is a cross between a Honeycrisp and Enterprise apple. Both apples are known to have a firm texture which gives the Cosmic Crisp® a solid crunch! With the sweetness of a Honeycrisp and tartness of an Enterprise, the Cosmic Crisp® is the perfect balance of sweet and tart. The crisp texture and natural juiciness are what truly make the Cosmic Crisp® the Apple of Big Dreams. For more information about the history and development of the Cosmic Crisp®, see Hello, Cosmic Crisp®!

When can I buy it?

Stemilt harvests Cosmic Crisps® in October, but stores begin seeing it in November. You can take a look at our store locator to learn how to find Cosmic Crisp® apples grown by Stemilt in your home state. This variety benefits from controlled atmosphere storage before it makes it to stores. This process puts the apples into a sleep-like state allowing the starch levels to convert to sugars, which makes this apple extra sweet and crunchy!

Why is it special?

This versatile apple tastes excellent whether it is cooked, baked, or eaten raw. I find them especially delicious when sliced and dipped in peanut butter for a crisp and creamy treat! Due to the high acidity and sugar levels of the Cosmic Crisp®, it tends to brown slowly and maintains its beautiful red color, making it a great choice for lunchboxes. That being said, it is a sweeter apple and is known to make up for additional sugar suggested in recipes. For example, the high sugar content and juiciness of the Cosmic Crisp® will help create a sweet syrup in apple pies during baking. This apple also pairs well with combinations of soft and tart apples, which makes the Cosmic Crisp’s® flavor pop!

What can it be used for?

In the kitchen, Cosmic Crisp® apples are known to stand against high heat while still holding its taste, texture, and appearance. This apple is great for pies, cakes, punch, and charcuterie boards. If this is your first-time cooking or baking with the Cosmic Crisp®, check out our Stem Blog for recipes and ideas on how you can include this apple into your cooking routine. Try the Cosmic Crisp® in the Classic Apple Pie a Thanksgiving Treat.

While this apple can be converted into many tasty treats, the Cosmic Crisp® is a filling and nutritious snack all by itself. A medium-sized apple is 100 calories and will be enough to keep you full until your next meal! Apples are also slower to raise blood sugar levels and can be a healthy addition to a low-calorie diet. Packed with antioxidants and fiber, apples can improve the health of your immune system, heart, and gut!

The Cosmic Crisp® will not disappoint when you go to make your next snack, baked good, or edible arrangement. The Cosmic Crisp® has been a great pre-workout snack and a tasty pick-me-up treat for when I’m in need of something sweet! This apple brings a perfect crunch, texture, and taste that is out of this world!