Crab apples are a tasty and versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of recipes. However, they can be difficult to find in regular grocery stores. If you’re wondering where to buy crab apples near you, this guide will provide several options to purchase these unique fruits, whether online or locally.
What are Crab Apples?
Crab apples are a type of apple that tend to be much smaller and more sour than regular apples. There are over 800 varieties of crab apples grown worldwide. They range in size from 1-3 inches in diameter on average. While too sour to eat raw, crab apples have a very intense and delicious fruity flavor when cooked that makes them perfect for jellies preserves and baking. Their high pectin content also makes them excellent for setting jams and jellies.
Where to Find Crab Apples
Local Orchards and Farmers Markets
One of the best places to find fresh crab apples is at local orchards or farmers markets during late summer and early fall when they are in season Many orchards will grow crab apple trees specifically for selling the fruit Ask orchard owners when their crab apples will be ready for harvest. Also check with vendors at your local farmers market to see if anyone sells them. Purchasing crab apples from local sources ensures you get high quality, fresh fruit with maximum flavor.
Online Stores
If you can’t find crab apples locally, there are several online stores that sell them. Options include:
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Walmart – Walmart carries several varieties of crab apples available for delivery on their grocery website. They sell bags of around 5 lbs of crab apples for reasonable prices.
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Amazon – You can purchase fresh crab apples on Amazon in the late summer/early fall. They sell them in 5 lb bags. Make sure to check the delivery date when ordering to get the freshest fruit.
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Specialty online fruit stores – Websites like Melissa’s Produce and Frieda’s carry fresh crab apples you can have shipped when in season. They focus specifically on unique and specialty produce.
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Grocery delivery services – Instacart allows you to order crab apples for delivery if a local grocery store sells them. You can check inventory and place an order through their app or website. This is convenient if you don’t live near any orchards.
Frozen and Canned Options
If fresh crab apples aren’t available, you can buy canned or frozen crab apples to use later on. Several grocery stores carry canned crab apples that have been prepped and packed in syrup or water. Make sure to check the ingredients to avoid added sugars. You can also find frozen crab apples at some specialty grocery stores like Trader Joe’s. Frozen crab apples work nicely for baking, sauces, and preserves.
When to Buy Crab Apples
Crab apples are in season for a short period in early fall. The harvest time ranges from August-October depending on your region’s climate. For the best flavor and quality, try to purchase fresh crab apples during their peak season. If buying them outside of those months, frozen or canned crab apples are a good alternative.
How to Store Crab Apples
Fresh crab apples will last 2-3 weeks when stored properly in the refrigerator. Sort through the fruit and remove any that are bruised or damaged, then place the apples in a plastic bag or container. Store them in the coldest part of the refrigerator. The low humidity will help preserve their texture.
Canned crab apples will keep 1-2 years unopened. Once opened, transfer any unused fruit and liquid to an airtight container and refrigerate up to 5 days.
Frozen crab apples will last 8-12 months in the freezer. Leave them in their original bag and place it in the coldest spot in the freezer, like the back bottom shelf.
No matter what form you buy them in, crab apples should be used soon after purchasing for the best flavor and texture. Their peak season is short so enjoy them right away!
How Much Do Crab Apples Cost?
When purchased fresh and in season, you can expect to pay $2-4 per pound for crab apples from local orchards and farmers markets. Online and in grocery stores the average cost is $3-5 per pound. Canned and frozen crab apples tend to cost $3-6 for a 16-20 oz bag. Buying in bulk quantities can help lower the price per pound or per bag as well.
Crab apples are considered a specialty fruit so their cost reflects that. However, a little goes a long way since they are used more as an ingredient than eaten raw. The intense flavor you get makes them well worth the price in prepared recipes.
Uses for Crab Apples
Crab apples have a unique tart flavor perfect for cooking applications like:
- Jams, jellies, preserves
- Pie fillings
- Sauces and chutneys
- Ciders and wines
- Baking – great substitute for regular apples
- Roast and pair with pork or poultry
Their small size and high pectin content makes them ideal for setting up jams and jellies. They add interesting flavor to apple pies and tarts. Simmer into a sauce for meats or cheese plates. Infuse them into vodka or wine for a fruity cocktail. Crab apples are endlessly versatile in the kitchen.
Finding Crab Apples for Your Recipes
Crab apples are available in the early fall season from orchards, farmers markets, and specialty online stores. Pick up a bag and experiment with new recipes using these flavorful little fruits. Their harvest window is short so take advantage while you can. Finding fresh crab apples may require a little extra effort, but their unique tart taste makes it well worth seeking them out.
