2 Apple Hacks
Apples are a beloved fruit—crisp, sweet, and packed with nutrients. But even the simplest things can be made better with a few clever tricks. Whether you’re trying to keep your apple slices from browning or looking for a smarter way to peel them, these two apple hacks will transform the way you snack, cook, and serve this classic fruit. Read on for two genius apple hacks that will save time, reduce waste, and boost flavor.
Hack #1: Keep Apple Slices Fresh and White
One of the biggest frustrations when slicing apples is how quickly they turn brown. That unappetizing color isn’t a sign of spoilage—it’s the result of oxidation, a natural reaction between the apple’s enzymes and the air. While harmless, it can make apples less appealing, especially in lunch boxes, fruit platters, or salads.
Solution: Citrus Bath Magic
The easiest and most natural way to prevent browning is a quick soak in a citrus solution. Here’s how:
You’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (or lime, orange, or pineapple juice)
- 1 cup of cold water
- Sliced apples
Steps:
- Mix the lemon juice and water in a bowl.
- Add your apple slices and let them soak for 3–5 minutes.
- Drain and pat dry with a paper towel.
The ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in lemon juice acts as an antioxidant, halting the browning process. Best of all, this method doesn’t drastically alter the apple’s flavor—it may even give it a refreshing zing!
Bonus Tip:
If you’re packing apple slices for kids or on-the-go snacks, try slicing the apple, then reassembling it with a rubber band around the middle to hold the slices in place. This reduces the amount of air reaching the flesh and slows browning even more.
Hack #2: Peel Apples in Seconds with a Drill
Peeling apples for pies, crisps, or sauces can be a tedious chore. If you’re dealing with more than a few, this next trick will blow your mind.
Solution: Power Drill + Vegetable Peeler
This unusual pairing turns a basic kitchen task into a lightning-fast hack.
You’ll need:
- A power drill
- A clean screwdriver bit or long skewer
- A standard vegetable peeler
- Apples
Steps:
- Secure the apple onto the skewer or screwdriver bit attached to your drill. Insert it through the core lengthwise so the apple is snug but not cracked.
- Hold the drill in one hand and the peeler in the other.
- Slowly rotate the apple using the drill while gently applying the peeler to the surface.
In just seconds, your apple will be fully peeled with minimal waste and effort. This is especially helpful when prepping large batches for canning or baking.
Safety First:
Use a low drill speed and always keep your fingers clear of the peeling zone. This hack is more about efficiency than speed.
Final Thoughts
With just a few smart tricks, you can make apples even more enjoyable to eat and easier to prepare. From keeping your slices fresh and appealing to peeling them at record speed, these apple hacks will make you wonder how you ever lived without them. So next time you pick up a shiny red or green apple, remember—you’re just a couple of hacks away from apple excellence.
