Sweetness Meter
Best Uses
The Story
Empire was developed by plant breeders in New York, the Empire State, and is a hybrid of two American classics: McIntosh and Red Delicious.
With its sweet-tart flavor, Empire is crisp and crunchy, with creamy white flesh. It’s a true all-purpose apple: great as a post-workout snack, excellent for baking, and a tasty addition to homemade applesauce.
Empire also stores exceptionally well, making it a favorite among processors who turn apples into fresh slices, sauce, and juice.
Key Facts
| Taste | Balanced sweet-tart flavor with a hint of melon |
|---|---|
| Texture | Firm, creamy white flesh |
| Appearance | Deep red, can be squatty |
| Peak | Sept 22 |
| PLU Code | #4126 (large) / #4124 (small) |
|---|---|
| GPC Code | — |
| Peak Harvest | Sept 22 |
| Window | ±1 week |
| Storage Temp | 34-36° F |
| Availability | Seasonal |
| Pack | Apple Size | Grade | UPC |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3lb | 2 1/4" | US Extra Fancy | 0 33383 08598 2 |
| 3lb | 2 1/2" | US Extra Fancy | 0 33383 08595 1 |
| 5lb | 2 1/2" | US Extra Fancy | 0 33383 08597 5 |
| 6lb | 2 3/4" | US Extra Fancy | 0 33383 09677 3 |
Frequently Asked
Empire apples were developed by crossing McIntosh and Red Delicious.
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