How to Cut an Apple

Best Way to Cut Apple Slices

Biting into an apple is by far the easiest way to get a taste of this crisp, sweet, and somewhat tart fruit.

But what do you do when you need slices for an Apple Crisp or Apple Overnight Oats recipe?

While yes, you can spend money on one of those expensive apple slicing gadgets, but it’s actually SO easy to cut an apple, peeled or unpeeled!, using the method you’ll find below.

My secret trick? There’s a special way to cut around the core with minimal cuts while wasting the least amount of fruit!

Yup! With just 3 simple cuts you’ll have the core completely separated from the flesh and ready to cut into slices!

This method works for all of the different apple varieties and is the fastest way to cut up this healthy fruit.

You’ll also learn a great way to store apples, so you have some ready for the kids’ lunch boxes when school rolls around.

How to Cut an Apple

Below you’ll find the steps to cut fresh apples:

1. Cut off the Side

First, give the apples a quick rinse and dry them with a clean paper towel.

If peeling, you’ll want to do this before you start cutting into the apple.

Once prepared, place the apple on a wooden cutting board with the stem facing up. Using a sharp chef’s or paring knife, make a cut about ½-inch to the right or left of the stem and cut all of the way down the side of the apple, paying close attention to avoid the core. 

2. Cut Around the Core

Turn the apple 90 degrees and make a similar cut all of the way through the apple. 

3. Remove the Core

Repeat this process until you have four pieces of apple and a separate core of the apple with apple seeds.

4. Cut into Slices

Place the apple pieces cut side-down on the cutting board and slice into ¼-½-inch pieces. You can make thicker slices, depending on your personal preference.

How to keep sliced apples from turning brown?

Cut apple slices are best when served immediately since they will begin to brown quickly when exposed to oxygen.

But what if you want to prep the apples ahead of time and store them for later?

To keep sliced apples from turning brown, add them to a large bowl and toss with freshly squeezed lemon juice. You’ll need about 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice for every half pound of apple slices. You can also use other citrus or acidic juice, like orange or pineapple juice.

The lemon juice will prevent the apple from browning and oxidizing because it is full of citric acid. This lower pH liquid creates a barrier between the apple and the air and allows the oxygen to react with it first before coming into contact with the apples’ surfaces. Apple slices that have been tossed in lemon juice will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days when stored in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator.

An alternative method you can try is submerging the apple wedges in a bowl of water. Since cold water is covering the apples’ surfaces, it will not come into contact with the air and will slow down the browning process.

Are apples healthy?

Yes! Apples are a fantastic food with a wide variety of health benefits. They are an excellent source of fiber, which enhances your gut health, and they’re associated with lowering the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. Tart apples and sweet types, like honey crisp, are all good for you.

More Apple Recipes

Apples are quick, easy, and healthy snacks that are delicious to eat by themselves.

Use them up in simple ways, like dipping them into some homemade fruit dip or creamy peanut butter.

They also taste incredible when baked in recipes such as Apple Crisp, Apple Bread, and Apple Overnight Oats.

You can even toss them into a Fall Harvest Salad or make your own Applesauce.