Zestar!™ apples are an early ripening variety. Developed in Minnesota, the Zestar! apple is one of the parents to the popular new SweeTango variety. Its ability to keep in storage for up to two months is one characteristic that elevates Zestar! apples above other early season varieties.

Zestar! apples are medium to large in size, growing up to three inches in diameter. The mid-western apples have a yellow-green skin with contrasting orange and red striations, giving the fruit a rosy blush on over 60% of its skin. Zestar! apples have a crisp, white flesh and a sweet-tart taste with notes of brown sugar.

Serving Ideas

Perfect for both fresh eating and cooking, the crisp texture of Zestar! apples lends well to pies and pastries. The trademarked apples brown easily; toss in lemon juice after slicing or dicing prior to adding to salads or cheese boards. The early season apples are known for making great caramel apples, or serve them sliced with warm caramel or other dipping sauce. Zestar! apples will store for 6-8 weeks refrigerated.

Geography/History

Zestar! apples were introduced in 1999 by the University of Minnesota, the same breeding program that developed Honeycrisp and Sweet16 varieties. The apples were a result of a cross between a numbered varietal and an apple named State Fair. Zestar! apples were originally patented under the name “Minnewashta” and were discovered in the mid-1980s. Their “zesty” flavor with a mix of tangy and sweet earned the fruit its current moniker.

Seasons/Availability

Zestar! apples are available in late summer through mid-fall.