Apples that taste like pears share a unique flavor profile that sets them apart from sharper, more acidic apple varieties. They are typically mild, gently sweet, and free from strong tartness, allowing their natural sugars and subtle aromas to stand out in a way that closely resembles the taste of ripe pears.
In terms of texture, these apples are usually very juicy with either a soft, fine-grained flesh or a crisp bite that releases abundant juice. This juiciness, combined with a smooth mouthfeel, creates a refreshing eating experience similar to that of both European and Asian pears.
Many of these apples have light floral or honeyed scents rather than strong fruity sharpness, giving them a delicate fragrance that enhances their sweetness and makes them feel less “apple-like” on the palate.
Apples that Taste Like Pears
Golden Delicious
Golden Delicious originated in West Virginia, USA, in the early 1900s and quickly became one of the world’s most popular apples. It is known for its gentle honey-like sweetness, low acidity, and soft, juicy flesh, which together create a smooth, pear-like eating experience, especially when the fruit is fully ripe.
Opal
Developed in the Czech Republic, the Opal apple is a modern variety prized for its bright yellow skin and clean, sweet flavor. Its crisp yet juicy texture, combined with mild floral notes and very low acidity, gives it a refreshing taste that closely resembles that of a ripe pear.
Ambrosia
Ambrosia apples originated in British Columbia, Canada, and are celebrated for their naturally high sugar content. They have a fine-grained, juicy flesh and a fragrant sweetness with almost no sharpness, making their flavor and mouthfeel strikingly similar to Asian pears.
Mutsu (Crispin)
Mutsu apples were developed in Japan and are known for their large size and greenish-yellow skin. Their mild sweetness, soft texture, and abundant juice create a gentle, pear-like flavor, particularly noticeable when eaten fresh at full ripeness.
Shizuka
Also from Japan, Shizuka apples are highly aromatic and honey-sweet. With very low acidity and smooth, juicy flesh, they offer a floral, pear-like taste that makes them especially enjoyable as a fresh-eating apple.
Fuji
Fuji apples were bred in Japan from Red Delicious and Ralls Janet parents and are now grown worldwide. Their intense sweetness and exceptionally juicy bite, combined with a refreshing flavor profile, often remind people of the crisp sweetness found in Asian pears.
Jonagold
Jonagold originated in New York State, USA, as a cross between Jonathan and Golden Delicious apples. When fully ripe, it develops a tender, juicy texture and balanced sweetness that softens its acidity, giving it a flavor and mouthfeel similar to that of a ripe pear.
Pinova
Pinova apples were developed in Germany and are valued for their refined flavor and attractive appearance. They offer a smooth sweetness with subtle floral undertones and a juicy texture, producing a gentle pear-like impression when eaten fresh.
Kanzi
Kanzi apples were developed in Belgium and are known for their vibrant flavor and juiciness. Their clean sweetness, light acidity, and refreshing texture can create a pear-like taste sensation, especially when the fruit is perfectly mature.
Rubinette
Rubinette apples originated in Switzerland and are admired for their intense aroma and rich sweetness. Their juicy, fine-textured flesh and complex, fruity flavor often resemble that of a ripe pear blended with classic apple notes.