How to Cut Apples

Learn how to cut apples like the pros: It's easy, efficient, and guaranteed to be your new favorite culinary trick.

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Prep Time 3

Total Time 3

Servings serving

Calories 95kcal

Peel apples if desired. On a cutting board, set an apple upright and slice in half.
Place each apple half cut-side down and cut in half again (you will now have 4 quarters of an apple).
Set each apple quarter on a flat angle side and slice out the core. Cut each cored apple quarter into slices (or chop or dice as desired).

Uniform size: While I specifically show slices in this post, you can use the same technique for chopping, dicing, or mincing apples. However you cut them, aim for uniform pieces so they cook evenly (if applicable) or look orderly.
Buying: Choose apples that are firm to the touch and free from bruises, blemishes, and brown spots. The skin should be bright, not dull. Smaller apples last longer than large ones, and tart apples last longer than sweet ones.
Washing: Wash and dry apples as soon as you bring them home.
Storing: Washed, uncut apples can be stored in the refrigerator for a few weeks. Store cut apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days (they will begin to brown as soon as you cut them). If you plan to freeze apples for future cooking, peel and cut them first and store for up to 3 months.
Prevent cut apples from turning brown: Soak cut apples in a solution of 2 cups water + ¼ teaspoon salt for 5 minutes, then rinse and store (will prevent oxidation for 5 to 7 days). Or, soak cut apples in lemon-lime soda such as 7Up or Sprite for 10 minutes, drain and store (will prevent oxidation for 2 to 3 days).