The Top 10 Apple Varieties to Taste This Fall in Mt. Juliet
Crunch into Tennessee’s favorite apples sweet, tart, and everything in between. Fall in Mt. Juliet means crisp mornings, cozy sweaters, and the return of apple season. Even though Breeden’s Orchard no longer grows apples on-site, we proudly partner with trusted regional orchards across Tennessee and beyond to bring you the freshest, most flavorful varieties each week. From snacking favorites to baking must-haves, every apple tells a story and we’re here to help you find your perfect pick.
Why Apple Season in Mt. Juliet Is Special
Tennessee’s rolling hills and temperate climate create ideal conditions for apple growing. Our local partners carefully harvest each variety at peak ripeness, and we bring them straight to our farm market so you can enjoy orchard-quality fruit right here in Mt. Juliet.
Since 1974, Breeden’s Orchard has been a gathering place for families to experience the best of each season peaches in summer, cider and baked goods in fall, and now, hand-selected apples from nearby farms. It’s our way of keeping the orchard spirit alive, one crisp bite at a time.
Top 10 Apple Varieties to Try
1. Honeycrisp – The Perfect Snack Apple
Famous for its juicy crunch and balanced sweetness, Honeycrisp apples are ideal for eating fresh. They’re a modern favorite that disappears quickly once they hit our shelves.
2. Granny Smith – Tart & Great for Baking
Bright green, tangy, and firm Granny Smiths are the backbone of any great pie or crisp. Their tartness pairs beautifully with cinnamon and sugar.
3. Fuji – Sweet and Long-Lasting
Dense and sugary, Fuji apples stay fresh for weeks. Perfect for lunch boxes or for slicing with sharp cheddar.
4. Gala – Crisp with Floral Notes
Delicate and lightly honeyed, Galas are crowd-pleasers for kids and adults alike. Their thin skin makes them perfect for snacking.
5. Red Delicious – Classic Favorite
Smooth red skin and mild flavor make this a nostalgic classic. It’s not flashy just consistently sweet and satisfying.
6. Jonagold – Best for Juices
A blend of tart Jonathan and mellow Golden Delicious, the Jonagold’s bright flavor shines in fresh-pressed juices and ciders.
7. Golden Delicious – Smooth and Mild
Golden Delicious apples have a mellow sweetness and creamy texture that works well in baking or applesauce.
8. Pink Lady – Refreshing with Tang
Crisp, firm, and lightly tart, Pink Ladies are as pretty as they are tasty perfect for fall charcuterie boards.
9. Rome Beauty – Ideal for Cider
Known for their dense texture, Rome Beauties hold their flavor through heat, making them perfect for mulled cider or baked desserts.
10. McIntosh – Soft and Fragrant
Fragrant, juicy, and slightly tart, McIntosh apples practically melt into applesauce or turnovers. A true old-fashioned favorite.
How to Pick the Perfect Apple
Look for color: Deep, even hues signal ripeness.
Check for firmness: A fresh apple should feel solid and heavy for its size.
Smell the aroma: Sweet, perfumed apples usually taste as good as they smell.
Store smart: Keep them in a cool spot or the fridge to extend freshness.
What to Do With Your Orchard Apples
Once you’ve picked up your apples from Breeden’s, it’s time to put them to delicious use! Bake a homemade pie, simmer fresh applesauce, or whip up caramel apple slices for a family treat. You’ll also find plenty of apple-inspired goodies in our market from cinnamon-spiced donuts to warm cider and bakery specials made right here in our kitchen.
Visit our Bakery Page to see what’s fresh this week.
Conclusion
Apple season may come from our partner farms now, but the fall feeling is alive and well at Breeden’s Orchard. Stop by to taste the best of Tennessee’s harvest, grab a fresh-baked treat, and celebrate the flavors that make autumn so special.
Find your favorite variety at Breeden’s Orchard Market this fall and bring home a taste of local tradition!
