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The Best Apple Peeler for You, According to Our Test Kitchen

As apple season nears, we’re all dreaming of delicious apple pies, apple cakes and other delicious treats. However, if you’re anything like me, you’re dreading all the work that comes with peeling, coring and slicing apples. Of course, all the effort is worth it, but it had me wondering what apple peeler really works best. Should I try just a regular produce peeler? A fancy peeler-corer-slicer?

To get to the bottom of this question—one I ask myself every fall—I enlisted the help of the Taste of Home Test Kitchen. Our pros tested four popular apple peelers. Here’s what they thought.

What’s the Best Apple Peeler?

To determine what apple peelers were most effective, our Test Kitchen tried peeling two types of apples: a firm Gala apple and a slightly softer McIntosh. (McIntosh are one of the best apples for apple pie, so you know we had to give those a test!) Here’s what our team was looking for:

  • Ease of use: How easy was the tool to use?
  • Time: How much time did it take to peel an apple?
  • Waste: Was there a lot of waste with this tool?
  • Performance: How well did the tool work? Did it do a good job of peeling?

Swivel Peeler

OXO Swivel Apple Peeler

Chances are you already have a produce peeler just like this OXO swivel peeler in your kitchen drawer. As our Test Kitchen will tell you, it works just fine to peel apples.

This classic swivel peeler did take the longest to peel a single apple—firm or soft—but it did the job. If you’re peeling pounds and pounds of apples, this might not be the tool to choose, but if you’re just peeling an apple or two for a snack, a regular peeler like this does the trick.

  • Time to peel one apple: 25 seconds
  • Price: $9

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Psst! Want Test Kitchen-approved gadgets delivered to your door? Check out Taste of Home’s Special Delivery box. It’s filled with our favorite recipes, cooking gadgets & kitchen products.

Y-Peeler

Y-Peeler apple peeler

This affordable Y-peeler from Ruhn Rikon is one of our Test Kitchen’s favorite tools. The horizontal blade of this type of peeler allows you to take quick strokes of the peel. The wide blade allowed our testers to peel the apple in fewer strokes, too.

Like the swivel peeler, this tool is affordable and easy to stash in your drawers without taking up much room. If you’re going to be peeling lots and lots of fruit, you might get a little tired.

  • Time to peel one apple: 15 seconds
  • Price: $5

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Crank Apple Peeler

Apple peeler, corer, slicer

We’ve all seen these crank-style peelers before. But if you’ve never used one, you might want to reconsider.

This heavy-duty apple peeler/corer from Williams Sonoma is made of metal and not only peels apples but cores and slices them too. Just suction the peeler to your countertop (some models affix to a work surface with a vice), fit the apple on the skewer and crank away. Our Test Kitchen found that this gadget could peel, core and thinly slice an apple all in about five seconds. Talk about efficiency!

Cleanup for this apple peeler was simple: Wipe away any apple bits from the prongs and blade with a damp cloth. You could even give it a full wash in the sink if needed.

The drawbacks to this machine were that the suction base occasionally came loose from the countertop. Also, the blade can occasionally trip up on apples that are bruised or have a very irregular shape. The blade also digs into the apples, so you do get a bit more waste than with other methods (you can toss those peels into the compost bin, though!).

Overall, though, this apple peeler made quick work of firm Gala apples and slightly softer McIntoshes. Having the apples already cored and sliced is also a big bonus for many fresh apple recipes.

  • Time to peel one apple: 5 seconds
  • Additional features: This tool peels, cores and slices
  • Price: $35

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KitchenAid Apple Peeler Attachment

KitchenAid KSM1APC 5-Blade Spiralizer with Peel, Core & Slice for apple peeling

In the words of Sarah Farmer, our executive culinary director, “this is the Cadillac of KitchenAid accessories.”

The KitchenAid apple peeler worked beautifully peeling all kinds of apples. It operates very similarly to the hand-crank version, but it relies upon the mixer’s motor instead of elbow grease. With the apples fitted in place, the KitchenAid attachment peeled, sliced and cored the apples in under 20 seconds on the mixer’s lowest setting. The peel was exceptionally thin, leaving as much fruit as possible behind. That’s all the more apple to add to your apple cakes.

Outside of its performance as an apple peeler, this attachment does so much more. It has four different blades and can cut fruits and veggies nine different ways. Most notably, it works as a spiralizer so you can use this to make zoodles for dinner and then an apple tart for dessert.

This peeler did work well, but you do need a KitchenAid stand mixer to use it. Also, disassembling this attachment does take some time. Once you get a hang of it, though, assembly and cleaning go much more quickly according to our testing team.

  • Time to peel one apple: 19 seconds on low speed (you can cut down on time by cranking it up)
  • Additional features: This tool peels, cores and slices; it also comes with four blades to spiralize and make other cuts
  • Price: $100

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So What’s Really the Best Apple Peeler Option?

In the end, all of these tools did what they were designed to do: peel apples. So the question isn’t really which of these gadgets works best, but which suits your needs in the kitchen.

If you’re only peeling a few apples, like for this delicious apfelkuchen, a hand peeler will do the job just fine. No need to go out and buy any fancy gadgets.

However, if you cook and bake with apples frequently and in large quantities—looking at you folks that make homemade applesauce and apple butter—one of the specially designed apple peelers would be a wise investment. A crank apple peeler is an affordable option for apple fanatics looking to prep bushels apples from the orchard. The KitchenAid attachment is pricier but takes up less space and does a lot more than just peel apples.

The bottom line: All these methods work, but invest in a special apple peeler gadget if you’re serious about cooking and baking with apples.

Start Peeling and Make These Recipes
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href="https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/old-fashioned-applesauce/">Old-Fashioned Applesauce

Old-Fashioned Applesauce

We had all kinds of apple trees in the yard when I was growing up, so I don't know for sure which ones Mother liked best for applesauce. (Today I use Cortlands.) I do know that her applesauce was very white. The secret, she said, was to keep the apples in salt water while she peeled them so that they wouldn't darken. —Doris Natvig, Jesup, Iowa
Potluck German Apple Cake

Potluck German Apple Cake

My mother made this German apple cake for my brothers and me when we were kids. It's an excellent choice for a Christmas potluck or actually any time of year. —Edie DeSpain, Logan, Utah
Apple Pear Coffee Cake

Apple Pear Coffee Cake

A friend gave me this apple pear coffee cake recipe to make for a breakfast I was hosting. The pan was empty before the breakfast was over! It's one of my most-requested recipes, probably because it's a bit different. —Joanne Hoschette, Paxton, Massachusetts
Healthy Apple Crisp

Healthy Apple Crisp

This easy dish is a tradition in my family. It's as quick as a boxed cake mix but it's a healthier dessert choice. It's ideal in fall when it seems that everyone has a bag or two of fresh apples to give away! —Terri Wetzel, Roseburg, Oregon
Apple Walnut Slaw

Apple Walnut Slaw

A co-worker shared this slaw recipe with me. Now it's a favorite at my house, too. Apples, walnuts and raisins are a fun way to dress up coleslaw. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Fruity Baked Oatmeal

Fruity Baked Oatmeal

This is my husband’s favorite breakfast treat and the ultimate comfort food. It’s warm, filling and always a hit when I serve it to guests. —Karen Schroeder, Kankakee, Illinois.
Crunchy Apple Side Salad

Crunchy Apple Side Salad

With fiber-rich fruit, light dressing and crunchy walnuts, this is a great side dish or snack. Try it with low-fat granola. —Kathy Armstrong, Post Falls, Idaho
Apple Crisp Pizza

Apple Crisp Pizza

While visiting a Wisconsin orchard, I tried a tempting apple crisp pie. At home, I put together this apple pizza. As it bakes, the enticing aroma fills my kitchen, and friends and family linger waiting for a sample. —Nancy Preussner, Delhi, Iowa
Apple Squash Soup

Apple Squash Soup

I add a little ginger and sage to this creamy butternut squash apple soup. My family loves it when autumn rolls around. —Crystal Ralph-Haughn, Bartlesville, Oklahoma
Pork and Asparagus Sheet-Pan Dinner

Pork and Asparagus Sheet-Pan Dinner

When time is of the essence, it's nice to have a quick and easy meal idea in your back pocket. Not only is it delicious, but you can clean it up in a flash. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Apples 'n' Cream Pancake

Apples 'n' Cream Pancake

This cozy recipe is delicious for breakfast or brunch. I usually make a double batch—because everyone wants more! With our own orchard, we have plenty of Delicious and Winesap apples...they make this a true Midwestern meal. —Ruth Schafer, Defiance, Ohio
Chunky Applesauce

Chunky Applesauce

There's just something extra special about a homemade applesauce recipe like this one. This simple dish is tart and not too sweet. It makes the perfect side, especially with pork chops or a pork roast. —Deborah Amrine, Grand Haven, Michigan
Broccoli and Apple Salad

Broccoli and Apple Salad

Even my picky daughter loves this one! My yogurt dressing on crunchy veggie salad makes a cool and creamy side dish. —Lynn Cluff, Littlefield, Arizona
I Like to Eat Apples and Bananas Bread

I Like to Eat Apples and Bananas Bread

My children love to bake (and eat) all kinds of banana bread. They make this all by themselves, with just a little help from me to put it in the oven. —Kristin Metcalf, Charlton, Massachusetts
Spiced Apple Chili

Spiced Apple Chili

Nothing says fall like chili and apples. I use smoked paprika to give this slightly sweet chili a smoky kick. —Joyce Moynihan, Lakeville, Minnesota
Apple-Mustard Chicken Tenders

Apple-Mustard Chicken Tenders

My husband says this dish is sweet and a little bit sassy, just like me. I like to use Granny Smith apples for a bit of tartness. Winesaps are great for this dish, too. —Linda Cifuentes, Mahomet, Illinois
Easy Homemade Chunky Applesauce

Easy Homemade Chunky Applesauce

Here's a comforting, home-style treat that never loses its appeal. Dish up big bowlfuls and wait for the smiles! —Marilee Cardinal, Burlington, New Jersey
Cinnamon-Apple Pork Chops

Cinnamon-Apple Pork Chops

When I found these pork chops and apples recipe online years ago, it quickly became a favorite. The ingredients are easy to keep on hand, and the one-pan cleanup is a bonus. —Christina Price, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Candy Bar Apple Salad

Candy Bar Apple Salad

This creamy, sweet snickers salad with crisp apple crunch is a real people-pleaser. It makes a lot, which is good, because it will go fast! —Cyndi Fynaardt, Oskaloosa, Iowa
Harvest Salad with Cherry Vinaigrette

Harvest Salad with Cherry Vinaigrette

Mixed greens and plenty of produce make this salad so satisfying, and it's gorgeous to serve for special occasions. —Jaye Beeler, Grand Rapids, Michigan
Cranberry Waldorf Gelatin

Cranberry Waldorf Gelatin

We enjoy this easy-to-make salad in the fall when apples are in season. Their crisp freshness adds so much to a favorite dish. — Debbie Short, Carlisle, Iowa
Apple-Balsamic Pork Chops & Rice

Apple-Balsamic Pork Chops & Rice

Thanks to tangy balsamic vinegar and sweet apples, this one-pot pork chop lets you have a little something special anytime. —Greg Hageli, Elmhurst, Illinois
Hot Spinach Apple Salad

Hot Spinach Apple Salad

With a light sweet-tangy dressing, the spinach doesn’t wilt and the apples retain their crunch. We serve this salad with homemade bread. —Denise Albers, Freeburg, Illinois
Apple Cinnamon Omelet

Apple Cinnamon Omelet

This sweet and savory omelet is a cinch to whip up! —Agnes Ward, Stratford, Ontario
Caramel Apple and Brie Skewers

Caramel Apple and Brie Skewers

I'm a caterer, and this is one of my best-selling appetizers. The shortcut of using prepared caramel makes these little apple skewers a snap to assemble. —Camille Ellis, Tampa, Florida
Apple Chutney Chops

Apple Chutney Chops

When my husband and I lived in South Carolina for a year, some good friends served this wonderful pork and apple chutney recipe. It became an instant family favorite and tastes especially good served with Basmati rice. —Cher Anjema, Brampton, Ontario
Kale Salad

Kale Salad

I love making meals that wow everyone. The flavor and nutrition in this kale salad set it apart from other 30-minute creations. —Gina Myers, Spokane, Washington
Puffy Apple Omelet

Puffy Apple Omelet

With all the eggs our chickens produce, I could make this omelet every day! It's a pretty festive-looking dish, but you could fix it anytime—including for a light supper. —Melissa Davenport, Campbell, Minnesota
Apple Chicken Quesadillas

Apple Chicken Quesadillas

My sister came up with an easy recipe that can be served as a main course or an appetizer. People are surprised by the combination of chicken, apples, tomatoes and corn inside the crispy tortillas, but they love it. —Stacia Slagle of Maysville, Missouri
O'Brien Sausage Skillet

O'Brien Sausage Skillet

Inspiration hit one night when I was in a time crunch. This was so satisfying and easy to make, many friends now serve it, too. —Linda Harris, Wichita, Kansas
Chicken & Apple Waffle Sandwiches

Chicken & Apple Waffle Sandwiches

Have breakfast for dinner! These fun, hearty and convenient waffle sandwiches make a delicious meal in no time. —Deb Williams, Peoria, Arizona
Cranberry-Almond Apple Pie

Cranberry-Almond Apple Pie

My grandmother made this treat every year for Christmas. It’s much better than everyday apple pie. The recipe is a family treasure. —Maxine Theriauit, Nashua, New Hampshire
Waldorf Turkey Pitas

Waldorf Turkey Pitas

Living in New York City means not having a lot of time to prepare meals. This recipe is quick, easy and healthy, making it perfect for my lifestyle. —Kevin Sobotka, Staten Island, New York
Pumpkin Pancakes with Cinnamon-Apple Topping

Pumpkin Pancakes with Cinnamon-Apple Topping

When these pumpkin pancakes are on the griddle, people flock to the kitchen. Grab a spoon and top each stack with buttery, cinnamon-spiced apples. —Kami Button, Cheektowaga, New York
Macaroon Apple Cobbler

Macaroon Apple Cobbler

Especially when I'm just serving a dessert, I like to prepare this. I'll usually make it with fresh apples, but I've also sometimes used home-canned ones. —Phyllis Hinck, Lake City, Minnesota
Apple Pie Oatmeal Dessert

Apple Pie Oatmeal Dessert

Warm and comforting oatmeal desserts bring back memories of time spent with my family around the kitchen table. I serve this dish with sweetened whipped cream or vanilla ice cream as a topper. —Carol Greer, Earlville, Illinois
Savory Apple-Chicken Sausage

Savory Apple-Chicken Sausage

These easy, healthy sausages taste great, and they make an elegant brunch dish. The recipe is also very versatile: It can be doubled or tripled for a crowd, and the sausages freeze well either cooked or raw. —Angela Buchanan, Longmont, Colorado
Apple Mashed Potatoes

Apple Mashed Potatoes

I love potatoes…especially mashed. When I came up with this combination, it was declared a winner. I serve this as a side dish when I have pork as an entree, but it's great with any meat. —Rebecca Page, Pensacola, Florida
Aunt Lou's Fresh Apple Cake

Aunt Lou's Fresh Apple Cake

My Great-Aunt Lou made a luscious fresh apple cake recipe that became a family tradition. My mom makes it for our annual beach trip to the Outer Banks. —Cristy King, Scott Depot, West Virginia
Cherry Waldorf Salad

Cherry Waldorf Salad

We combine apples with tart cherries and dried cranberries to give an autumn twist to classic Waldorf salad. —Marie Hattrup, Sonoma, California
Slow-Cooker Pork and Apple Curry

Slow-Cooker Pork and Apple Curry

Here's a gentle curry dish that's sure to please American palates. For fun, try varying the garnish—add a few chopped peanuts or a little chutney. —Nancy Reck, Mill Valley, California
Dutch Apple Cake

Dutch Apple Cake

My husband and I came to Canada from Holland over 40 years ago This traditional Dutch recipe is a family favorite and has frequently gone along with me to potluck suppers and other get-togethers. —Elizabeth Peters, Martintown, Ontario
Broccoli Slaw with Lemon Dressing

Broccoli Slaw with Lemon Dressing

Our family absolutely loves broccoli, so I'm so happy there's finally a slaw mix in stores that uses broccoli stems. I like this slaw best after 20 minutes or so to allow the flavors to meld. —Donna Marie Ryan, Topsfield, Massachusetts
Cranberry Stuffed Apples

Cranberry Stuffed Apples

Cinnamon, nutmeg and walnuts add a homey autumn flavor to these stuffed apples, but the slow cooker does most of the work for me. —Graciela Sandvigen, Rochester, New York
Apple-Swiss Turkey Sandwiches

Apple-Swiss Turkey Sandwiches

Honey mustard adds a sweet tang to this hearty concoction. Apple slices, Swiss cheese, cucumber and turkey are layered between slices of nutritious multi-grain bread. These delicious sandwiches pack well to take to the office or on the trail. —Gloria Updyke, Front Royal, Virginia
Weeknight Apple Crisp

Weeknight Apple Crisp

When my cooking classes bake these apples, all the staff drops by. Students make them at home for Thanksgiving, and parents send in thank-you notes. —Sally Treonze, Hillsborough, New Jersey
Skillet Pork Chops with Apples & Onion

Skillet Pork Chops with Apples & Onion

Simple recipes that land on the table fast are a lifesaver. I serve skillet pork chops with veggies and, when my husband lobbies, cornbread stuffing. —Tracey Karst, Ponderay, Idaho
Old-Fashioned Honey Baked Apples

Old-Fashioned Honey Baked Apples

My baked apple recipe is very old-fashioned yet tried and true. It's definitely a comfort food. —Rachel Hamilton, Greenville, Pennsylvania
Apple Butterscotch Crisp

Apple Butterscotch Crisp

I give this classic dessert a rich twist with butterscotch pudding. The warm apple filling bubbles to perfection in a mini slow cooker. —Jolanthe Erb, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Apple Bread

Apple Bread

I got this apple quick bread recipe a long time ago and with a few changes it's become one of our favorites. Everyone who's ever tasted this apple bread has asked for the recipe! —Phyllis Herlocker, Farlington, Kansas
Cinnamon Spiced Apples

Cinnamon Spiced Apples

If you’re feeling festive, scoop some vanilla ice cream over a bowl of my cinnamon spiced apples. They’re homey, aromatic and just plain heavenly. —Amie Powell, Knoxville, Tennessee
Fruit & Nut Baked Oatmeal

Fruit & Nut Baked Oatmeal

In my part of the Midwest, baked oatmeal is a Mennonite specialty. My daughters are always delighted if we have leftovers for them to take home.—Fancheon Resler, Albion, Indiana
Apple Gravy

Apple Gravy

You might want to make a double batch of this rich apple gravy. Yep, it's sensational with beef, but you've gotta try it on mashed potatoes, chops, roasted veggies—pretty much anything goes. —Kathryn Conrad, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The post The Best Apple Peeler for You, According to Our Test Kitchen appeared first on Taste of Home.



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