RubyFrost Apples
Estimated Inventory, lb : 0
Description/Taste
RubyFrost apples are medium to large fruits with a somewhat uniform, round shape. The skin is smooth, semi-thick, and glossy with a yellow-green base covered in dark red blush. Underneath the surface, the flesh is white, firm, crisp, and juicy, encasing a small central core filled with oval, black-brown seeds. Rubyfrost apples have a mild and balanced, sweet-tart flavor. The flavor improves after a few weeks in storage, which is why this variety is actually picked in the fall and stored for several weeks before being released to the market in the winter.
Seasons/Availability
RubyFrost apples are available in the winter.
Current Facts
RubyFrost apples are a modern variety of Malus domestica developed by Cornell University’s breeding program and marketed by Crunch Time Apple Growers in New York state. RubyFrost apples are favored for their easy-to-grow nature and the apples remain on the tree when ripe. The trees grow well in upstate New York, where RubyFrost was originally bred. This apple’s parentage includes the braeburn and autumn crisp varieties. RubyFrost is closely related to another variety developed at the same time by Cornell, known as the snapdragon.
Nutritional Value
RubyFrost apples contain vitamin C, potassium, boron, and various phytochemicals. They also contain about one-fifth of the daily recommended value of dietary fiber, key for keeping the digestive and cardiovascular systems healthy.
Applications
RubyFrost apples are best suited for fresh eating, baking, and sauces. The apples contain a high vitamin C content, slowing the skin from browning when cut open, making them a good choice for salads, snacks, and other fresh uses. RubyFrost apples can also be baked into pies or tarts, retaining their shape and flavor, and can be paired with classic apple flavors such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and nuts.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Although most apples throughout history have been created when a farmer discovers a chance seedling, more modern varieties go through a rigorous scientific breeding process. Scientists are constantly looking for apples that are disease and drought resistant, have improved flavors, and are easy to ship and market. When breeding apples such as RubyFrost, breeders cross various varieties and plant the seeds in the resulting apples. Sometimes thousands of seeds may be planted to test. After waiting several years for the trees to bear fruit, researchers determine if any have produced high-quality apples that they would like to continue growing. RubyFrost was one of these seedlings that passed the test at the Cornell University breeding program and has finally made it to market.
Geography/History
Like several other apple varieties, RubyFrost is the result of a breeding program at a university. This particular variety was developed by Cornell University during a 17-year-long process. Farmers first planted RubyFrost in 2011. Since its first appearance on the market in 2014, many apple farmers have grown this variety in upstate New York. Sales of RubyFrost have increased year after year.
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include RubyFrost Apples. One
is easiest, three is harder.
