Posted by Brittany Woolley on 2/24/2023 to Apple Varieties
Updated: September 2026

The McIntosh is the most popular apple in the northeastern U.S. and eastern Canada — and one of the most legendary apple stories in North America. Discovered by a farmer named John McIntosh in 1811 as a chance seedling on his Ontario property, the McIntosh went on to become the parent of dozens of modern varieties (including Honeycrisp) and gave its name to a certain computer. Not bad for a wild seedling.

Order fresh McIntosh apples direct from our orchard.

What Is a McIntosh Apple?

The McIntosh (or "Mac") is a soft, tender, aromatic apple with red-and-green skin and creamy white flesh. It has a bright, tangy-sweet flavor that people either love passionately or find too soft — there's not much middle ground. Macs are what people picture when they close their eyes and imagine an apple.

Did You Know?

  • Discovered in 1811. John McIntosh, a Mohawk Valley (NY) native who had moved to Ontario, found the original tree as a chance seedling.
  • Originally called "Granny's Apples." Named after John's wife.
  • The parent of Honeycrisp, Empire, Cortland, Macoun, and dozens of other varieties. A remarkably influential apple.
  • Yes, Apple's Macintosh computer was named after the McIntosh apple — developer Jef Raskin's favorite variety.
  • The most popular apple in the Northeast. Especially in New York, New England, Ontario, and Quebec.
  • Perfect applesauce apple. Cooks down into a naturally silky, sweet sauce — no sugar needed.

Best Uses

  • Applesauce. The McIntosh's true genius — cooks down beautifully.
  • Fresh eating. Perfect if you love a soft, aromatic, juicy apple.
  • Pies (blended). Blend with a firmer apple like Northern Spy so the pie isn't mushy.
  • Cider. Adds sweet, aromatic notes to homemade blends.
  • Cakes and muffins. Grate into batters for extra moisture and flavor.

Storage & Shelf Life

McIntosh is best fresh — refrigerate in the crisper drawer and enjoy within 4–6 weeks. After that, they lose their crisp texture and become better suited for cooking.

Similar Apples You Might Love

  • Cortland — a McIntosh descendant with firmer texture, browning resistance.
  • Empire — another Mac descendant, crisper.
  • Macoun — a McIntosh cross that's more aromatic.
  • Paula Red — another beautiful heirloom in the Mac family.

Ready to Try One?

Order fresh McIntosh apples from our orchard and taste the apple that started an entire family tree.

Questions? Reach us at [email protected].