What are excellent pie baking apples - not Granny Smith?

You're in luck! There are plenty of excellent pie baking apples beyond the Granny Smith. Here's a breakdown of some popular choices, with considerations for their flavor profile:

Classic, Tart & Sweet:

* Honeycrisp: A newer variety with a fantastic balance of sweetness and tartness, and a satisfyingly crisp texture. Excellent for a well-rounded pie.

* Pink Lady: Similar to Honeycrisp, but slightly more tart.

* Braeburn: Another great choice with a sweet-tart flavor and firm texture. It holds its shape well in pies.

* Jonagold: A bit milder than the others, with a good balance of sweetness and acidity.

More Tart:

* Golden Delicious: Provides a classic, tangy flavor, and a softer texture than some other apples. Good for pies that are less firm.

* Rome Beauty: Another tart option, but with a lovely red hue. Good for baking and holding its shape.

* Jonathan: More tart than Golden Delicious, and a good option for a classic apple pie flavor.

More Sweet:

* Gala: A sweet option with a hint of tartness. Great for pies with added spices or sweeteners.

* Fuji: Known for its sweetness and juicy flesh. Can be good for a pie with a less tart flavor.

* Mutsu: Also known as "Crispin," this apple has a pleasant sweetness and a slight, almost floral, flavor.

Tips for Choosing Apples:

* Flavor Profile: Consider your personal preference. Do you want a classic tart pie, a sweeter one, or something in between?

* Texture: If you want a more tender pie, choose apples that are softer when cooked. For a firm pie, choose crisp varieties.

* Seasonality: Some apple varieties are best for baking during certain seasons. Check with your local orchard or grocery store for what's in season.

* Flavor Combinations: You can always combine different varieties of apples for a unique flavor profile. Try mixing a sweet apple with a tart apple, or even adding some pears for extra depth.

Remember, these are just a few suggestions. The best apple for your pie is the one that you enjoy the most! Experiment with different varieties and see what you like best.