Honeycrisp apples are a favorite, but sometimes they're out of stock or just too pricey (a cultivar developed by the University of Minnesota with an unusually crisp texture and balanced sweet‑tart flavor).
Lucky us, there are a few awesome substitutes that can fill the Honeycrisp-shaped hole in our hearts.
Each one has its own unique charm and can bring that sweet crunch we all crave to our snacks and recipes.
6 Easy Substitutes for Honeycrisp Apples
For those who are unfamiliar, a Honeycrisp apple is a relatively new breed of apple that originated in Minnesota in the 1960s. It's known for its crisp texture and sweet flavor, making it a popular choice among apple lovers.
But if you can't get your hands on these apples or simply want to try something new, here are some alternatives to consider:
1 - Fuji Apples
First, let's talk about Fuji apples. They are sweet, crisp, and juicy - just like Honeycrisps (a Japanese‑bred cultivar known for dense, juicy flesh and honeyed sweetness).
The flavor is a bit more subtle, with hints of honey and citrus. We love that they hold their shape when you bake them.
Perfect for pies or a crunchy snack.
Use Fuji apples in any recipe calling for Honeycrisps, one-to-one ratio - they're also great stirred into apples for warm breakfast oats.
Check out our guide to Fuji apple substitutes for more alternatives!
2 - Gala Apples
Then, let's chat about Gala apples. They're sweet and mild (with honeyed sweetness and a delicate floral aroma).
More floral notes compared to Honeycrisp's punchy tartness.
These work well for snacking and baking. They hold up nicely in pies and crumbles.
Gala apples have a slightly grainy texture but still deliver that essential crunch.
They shine in salads and added to desserts, especially in farro salad with apples for texture.
We once used Gala apples for a homemade apple sauce. It turned out smooth and perfectly sweet.
Give them a go next time Honeycrisps are out of reach!
3 - Jazz Apples
Jazz apples are another excellent option. They've got a sweet-tart flavor that's both crisp and juicy (a New Zealand cultivar known for its lively sweet‑tart balance).
These apples have a distinct, slightly tangy snap that adds excitement to any bite. We find Jazz apples amazing for snacking and baking alike.
They're also fantastic in salads and desserts. Their firm texture stays solid even when cooked, so expect them to hold up well in pies and crumbles.
The substitute ratio is one-to-one with Honeycrisp apples. Next time you need a fun twist in your recipes, give Jazz apples a shot.
4 - Braeburn Apples
The Braeburn apples! These are sweet with a touch of tartness.
Their flavor is intense and rich with a hint of spice (often described as apple with cinnamon‑like notes).
We love them for snacking, baking, and salads. They stay crisp and firm even when cooked.
Use them in place of Honeycrisps at a one-to-one ratio. Our go-to for pies and sauces.
Seriously, they hold up beautifully. They might just be your next favorite.
Curious about more tips? Check out our Braeburn apple substitutes for other great options.
5 - Envy Apples
Alright, let's talk about Envy apples! These guys are seriously sweet with a crisp bite (a New Zealand‑bred cross of Royal Gala and Braeburn).
Their flavor has hints of floral and vanilla, making them a tasty alternative to Honeycrisps.
They are great for snacking and maintain their shape in pies. We love adding them to salads for that extra crunch.
Use Envy apples one-to-one in recipes that call for Honeycrisp apples. We once made an apple pie with Envy apples, and it was a hit.
Easy and delicious substitution!
6 - Pink Lady Apples
And now, Pink Lady apples. They pack a crisp, tangy-sweet punch (the Cripps Pink cultivar developed in Western Australia).
The flavor is vivid with a bit of tartness that's refreshing.
Perfect for snacking and baking, they hold up well under heat. Try them in a pie or a fresh salad.
Use them one-to-one for Honeycrisp apples. We made apple crisps with Pink Lady apples, and they were amazing.
Definitely worth a try!
Check out our Pink Lady apple substitutes for extra options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fuji apples are also very sweet, making them a perfect substitute for Honeycrisp apples. They are slightly denser and juicier, offering a similar crisp texture and natural sugar balance in both baking and snacking.
Yes, Gala apples are slightly less tart than Honeycrisp apples but still hold up well in pies. They are naturally sweet and will add a softer texture compared to the crispness of Honeycrisp.
Jazz apples are sweet with a slight tanginess, similar to Honeycrisp apples. Their firm texture and bold flavor make them a great alternative in salads or baking.
Braeburn apples are a bit more tart than Honeycrisp apples. They offer a nice balance of sweetness and acidity, making them a great substitute when you want a tangy flavor in your recipes.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.
