The Smoky, Sweet and Fruity Flavor of Apple Wood Smoking

Time to add some smoky, sweet, fruity flavor to your cooking with apple wood. I've smoked with a lot of different woods over the years, and apple is one I keep coming back to. Here's how it compares to cherry, when it's the right choice, and when it isn't.

A little history

People have smoked with apple wood for centuries, especially in the American South where apple trees were plentiful. The sweet, fruity flavor comes from the sugars and other compounds in the wood, which release as it burns and soak into the food.

What apple tastes like

Apple gives you a smoky, sweet, fruity flavor that a lot of people compare to a tart apple. Its smoke is a bit milder than heavier woods like hickory or mesquite, which is why it works on a range of foods.

Apple vs. cherry

Apple and cherry get compared a lot, and for good reason. Both are sweet and fruity, but there are real differences. Cherry leans a little sweeter and fruitier, closer to a tart cherry, and its smoke is milder than apple's, which makes cherry the gentler option for delicate foods like fish and poultry.

If you're chasing a deep smoke ring in your meats, cherry wood is hard to beat. Apple will give you plenty of rich, smoky, fruity flavor, but cherry tends to produce that deep red ring that makes barbecue look as good as it tastes.

When to use apple

Apple is a great match for bold meats like beef, pork, and venison. Its smoky, sweet, fruity flavor complements those stronger tastes rather than getting lost in them. So whether you're smoking a brisket, a pork shoulder, or a rack of ribs, apple adds a flavor that's tough to beat.

When to pick something else

Apple can be a bit much for delicate foods like fish and poultry. For some palates its flavor overpowers those lighter foods. And if you want a milder, sweet, fruity note, cherry or maple will give you that without taking over.

The bottom line

Apple is a great wood to keep on hand. Its smoky, sweet, fruity flavor is perfect for bold meats and brings a distinctive taste to your food. Just remember it can overwhelm delicate foods like fish and poultry, and if you're after a specific flavor, another wood might suit you better.

Grab some apple wood, experiment, and see what you come up with. And share your cooks with us on Kona's Facebook page, "I Love to Grill," and our Instagram page. Happy smoking.