Zestar! apples are known for their beautiful, vibrant red blush over a yellow-green background. Their flesh is light, crisp, and incredibly juicy. The unique flavor profile is a complex mix of sweet and tart with a surprising hint of brown sugar. It’s a flavor that truly lives up to its “zesty” name.
Best Uses
This versatile apple is excellent for fresh eating right off the tree, where its crisp texture and lively flavor truly shine. The Zestar! apple also holds its shape and flavor well when baked, making it a fantastic choice for pies, crisps, and sauces. Its natural sweetness means you can often reduce the amount of sugar needed in recipes.
Origin
Developed at the University of Minnesota and released in 1998, the Zestar! apple was specifically bred for cold hardiness and for being one of the first varieties ready to harvest at the start of the apple season.