With its signature green color and tart flavor, get all you need to know about Granny Smith apples in my dietitian’s guide.

The Basics

Granny Smith apples are said to have been discovered in Australia by a woman named Maria Ann (Granny) Smith. 

While there are many versions of the story, one popular legend is that she was testing French crab apple varieties for cooking, throwing the cores and seeds out her kitchen window.

As a result, a new cultivar of apple began to grow that would become what we now know as Granny Smith Apples. 

These apples have a signature green color that will start to turn a greenish-yellow when it gets too ripe.

Flavor-wise, it’s quite tart with a subtle sweetness. Texturally, these apples are very firm and hold their shape well when baked. 

Due to their thick skin, Granny Smith apples tend to last longer than others and don’t bruise quite as easily. 

>>Learn more about different apple varieties and get healthy apple recipes here.

Nutritional benefits of Granny Smith apples

As with all apples, Granny Smiths are a good source of fiber. 

One medium Granny Smith apple provides:

• 72 calories
• 19 grams carbohydrate
• 3 grams fiber

As with other apples, Granny Smiths are also high in polyphenols — plant compounds that have antioxidant effects. 

In fact, it’s thought that many of the health benefits of apples, such as protection against heart disease and type 2 diabetes, may be due to the combination of fiber and polyphenols in them. 

How to select and store

Look for apples that have a deep green color and no bruising. They should feel heavy for their size when picked up. 

As with all apples, keep Granny Smiths in the crisper drawer of your fridge for up to 1 month. 

For apples that you plan on eating within a few days, you can keep them out on the counter or in a fruit basket. Just try to avoid piling too many on top of each other as it can cause bruising. 

How to use Granny Smith apples in cooking and baking

Thanks to their tart flavor, high acidity, and firm texture, Granny Smith apples are perfect for baking (think pies, galettes, tarts, hand pies, and cobblers). 

Their bright flavor also works well in savory dishes (like these apple cheddar turkey burgers) and sauces. 

Of course, they’re also juicy enough to enjoy fresh. I personally love pairing them with cheese or dipped into my date caramel apple dip.