Snow Apples: Description, Origins, Uses and More

The name “Snow Apple” does justice to the fruit’s white flesh and the tree’s winter hardiness. It is well-suited to northern climate as it is pretty good at tolerating cold weather. These variety of apples have a significant presence in historical folklore throughout Northern America and Canada. An unknown disease or a cold snap killed almost all the trees in the late 19th century. Following the downfall of the Quebec line due to war, the Snow apple fell into obscurity and is rarely grown today.

Here is a look at the history and characteristics of this unique fruit.

What is Snow Apple?

Snow apple (Malus domestica), is an heirloom variety that belongs to the Rosaceae family. These fruits were first grown in Canada in the early 18th century and quickly became one of the most cultivated varieties, named after the apple’s white flesh and resilience in cold weather.

They have been given different names throughout history, including Fameuse, which means “famous” in French, Chimney apples, and Snow Chimney apples.

Snow apples are primarily consumed fresh, and are one of the few apple varieties that can be grown from seed without alteration or mutation.

History and Origin of Snow Apples:

The historical origins of Snow apples are debated. Some experts trace the variety back to the 1600s in France, while others believe they were originally developed from French seedlings in Canada. These fruits were first recorded in Canada and the United States in the 1700s and quickly became one of the most cultivated apples in French settlements.

Snow apples were cultivated in England in the 17th century and soon spread to America, becoming a popular food for settlers. During the 19th century, snow apple orchards appeared across the United States and Canada.

Snow apples were especially widespread in Quebec (Canada), being grown for over one hundred years. However, the majority of the trees were eventually destroyed due to disease and have failed to regain popularity since the devastation.

In the modern-day, Snow apple trees are a rare variety that is localized to specialty orchards and home gardens. The variety is not commercially cultivated and can be found through farmer’s markets throughout Canada and the United States..

The snow apple has become an increasingly popular choice for fresh eating and culinary uses in recent years. The mild flavor of the snow apple makes it a great choice for baking, making jams and jellies, or adding to salads. It is also often used as a garnish on desserts such as cakes and pies.

This apple is small to medium in size and ripens around late September to Early November.

Description:

Snow apples have a round, conical shape with a symmetrical appearance. The distinctive bright ‘snow white’ flesh can be pale pink, red, or pale-yellow and can have red streak stains near the skin. The skin is crimson with green stripes. The skin is smooth, covered in bright red blush and striping. Underneath the surface, the flesh is soft, white, and crisp, enveloping a central core filled with black-brown seeds.

Snow apples are aromatic and are said to emit a strawberry-like scent. The apples also have a very sweet, subtly tart flavor with notes of spice, caramel, and wine.

Flavor Profile:

Snow apples have a sweet yet slightly tart flavor with a hint of spice. They are crisp and juicy when fully ripe, with an overall mild taste reminiscent of honeydew melons. The subtle tartness adds complexity to the sweetness, making it enjoyable for snacking and baking. 

The Snow apples have become an increasingly popular choice for fresh eating and culinary uses in recent years. The mild flavor of the snow apple makes it a great choice for baking, making jams and jellies, or adding to salads. It is also often used as a garnish on desserts such as cakes and pies.

Nutritional Value:

Snow apples are an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamins A, C, and B6, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folate, and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. They are also low in calories and free of fat, sodium, and cholesterol.

Where are Snow Apples Grown?

Snow apples are grown and harvested mainly in the cooler climates of China, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. However, they are also grown in parts of Europe, such as France, Germany, and the United States. 

Snow apples prefer cooler climates ranging between 25 degrees Fahrenheit (-3.9 degrees Celsius) to 65 degrees Fahrenheit (18.3 degrees Celsius). They ae cold hardy and resistant to most other apple diseases.

In United States, these apples mare majorly grown in The Northern New England, Mountain West and Green Mountains of Vermont. They are also grown in warmer climates of Southern California.

The harvest season for snow apples usually begins in mid-summer and extends through late autumn, depending on the climate. Snow apples are usually handpicked so they can be stored without damage. Snow apples have a long shelf life and can last up to three months if stored properly in a cool, dry place. After harvesting, the apples are typically processed, canned, or frozen for future use. 

Cultivation:

Snow apples grow best in cooler climates, such as northern Canada and the northern United States. They can tolerate temperatures as low as -30° F. Snow apples prefer well-drained, loamy soil with a pH of 6–7. They require 8-10 hours of sunlight. 

Snow apples need another variety of apple nearby for pollination. Mason bees can also help with pollination. Snow apples are susceptible to apple scab, but are resistant to mildew and firelight. Apple scab is more prevalent in regions with wet springs, but can be controlled with sulfur and other sprays. 

Harvesting:

The harvest season for snow apples usually begins in mid-summer and extends through late autumn, depending on the climate. Snow apples are usually handpicked so they can be stored without damage.

The most common method is roll picking in which grasp the apple with your palm and roll it backwards until it snaps from the tree. Leaving the apples for a longer growth time in cold temperatures cause the sugar in the fruit to condense and diffuse. This ends up making the apples sweeter.

Snow apples have a long shelf life and can last up to three months if stored properly in a cool, dry place. After harvesting, the apples are typically processed, canned, or frozen for future use. 

Where to Buy?

The best quality Snow apples can be found at specialty orchard stores, farmers’ markets, and some grocery stores. Supermarkets such as Whole Foods and Walmart sell Snow apples depending on seasonal availability.

You can also purchase them online from reputable vendors such as Instacart, Amazon Fresh or Nature’s Best. 

When purchasing snow apples, check for firmness and texture, no soft spots or bruises, and vibrant color. You should also look for fruits that have a sweet and slightly tart flavor. Snow apples can stay fresh for up to two weeks when stored properly. 

How to Store Them?

Keep snow apples in a cool, dry place when storing them. Store them in an area with good air circulation. Avoid storing them near other fruits and vegetables to prevent premature spoilage. Before storing Snow apples, inspect the fruit for any signs of damage or decay and discard any that are not intact. 

To store Snow apples, carefully wrap each apple in wax paper and place them into a plastic container with a lid. If you’re storing multiple fruits or vegetables together, separate them from each other by layering layers of wax paper between them. 

To ensure the best quality, check on the fruit regularly for any signs of spoilage or decay. Once the Snow apples have been stored, they should keep for up to several weeks. 

Various Culinary Uses:

The snow apple is a versatile ingredient used in various recipes. Here are some ideas for incorporating them into your cooking:

• Make a fruity sauce by simmering snow apples with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
• Toss snow apples with roasted vegetables for a sweet and savory side dish.
• Make smoothies or juices by blending snow apples with other fruits like bananas, strawberries, and blueberries.
• Sauté cubes of snow apple with onions, garlic, and herbs for a unique side dish.
• Top pancakes or crepes with pureed snow apples for added flavor and sweetness.
• Make a refreshing fruit salad by combining diced snow apples with other seasonal fruits.

Conclusion:

Snow apples have been immortalized by Robert Frost in his poems and today are an important part of the Canadian and Northern American history. They are a unique and flavorful type of apple that can be used in a variety of ways.

Their sweet flavor with hints of tartness, making them perfect for snacking, baking, and cooking. Be sure to purchase the best quality snow apples and store them properly to ensure they last longer.

With the right ingredients, you can make delicious dishes with snow apples that will impress your family and friends.

FAQ’s

Q.1 What are Snow Apples?

Ans. Snow apples (Malus domestica) are an heirloom variety that belongs to the Rosaceae family. These fruits were first grown in Canada in the early 18th century and quickly became one of the most cultivated varieties, named after the apple’s white flesh and resilience in cold weather.

Q.2 Where to buy Snow Apples?

Ans. The best quality Snow apples can be found at specialty orchard stores, farmers’ markets, and some grocery stores. Supermarkets such as Whole Foods and Walmart sell Snow apples depending on seasonal availability. You can also purchase them online from reputable vendors such as Instacart, Amazon Fresh or Nature’s Best. 

Q.3 What are Snow Apples good for?

Ans. Snow apples are an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamins A, C, and B6, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folate, and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. They are also low in calories and free of fat, sodium, and cholesterol. They can also be baked and cooked into various dishes.