Autumn ushers in a bounty of crisp, juicy apples, just begging to be baked into a myriad of sweet and savory dishes. Choosing the right apple is crucial to the success of any fall baking project, from pies and tarts to crisps and cobblers. Here’s a guide to the best baking apples that will keep your treats perfectly flavored and textured.

Granny Smith Apples are the go-to baking apple for many bakers. They hold their shape well when baked, which makes them perfect for pies and tarts where a distinct apple shape is desirable. Their tart flavor also balances out the sweetness of sugar-laden recipes.

Honeycrisp Apples are another top choice for baking, thanks to their crisp texture and balanced sweetness. They work exceptionally well in recipes that don’t cook the apple all the way through, preserving their satisfying crunch.

Braeburn Apples have a firm texture that holds up well during cooking, making them an excellent choice for pies and other baked goods. They also have a nice balance of sweet and tart flavors that can add depth to your desserts.

Cortland Apples are less well-known but brilliant for baking due to their soft texture that doesn’t break down completely when cooked. They’re ideal for apple sauces or fillings where you want a smoother consistency.

Golden Delicious Apples are soft with a sweet flavor profile that caramelizes well under heat. While they might not hold their shape as well as some others on this list, they still work beautifully in cakes or muffins where the apple can meld into the batter.

Jonagold Apples, a cross between Jonathan and Golden Delicious apples, strike a wonderful balance with their honeyed sweetness and touch of acidity. They retain their structure reasonably well and exhibit delightful flavors when baked.

Finally, Northern Spy Apples are often lauded by pie enthusiasts as one of the best pie apples due to their tart flavor and firmness. These apples keep their shape beautifully while providing sufficient juice for a moist filling without becoming soggy.

When baking with apples, it’s helpful to remember that combining different varieties can create more complex flavors and textures in your dishes—don’t hesitate to experiment! With these top baking apples in your arsenal, you’re well on your way to creating sumptuous fall treats that everyone will love.