Apple

Choking risk

Raw apple is a high choking risk - it's hard and round, and both the CDC and AAP name it a top choking food for young children.

Peel and cook apple until it squashes between two fingers, then serve as puree or soft pieces - never raw chunks, coins, or skin-on slices. See how to serve for age-by-age prep.

Allergens

Apple is not a common food allergen, so a true food allergy to it is rare.

Start with a small amount and watch for a reaction.

If baby refuses

Apple is rarely refused. If yours turns it down, make sure it's cooked completely soft - firm apple can put babies off. Try it with pear and a little cinnamon, or stirred into oatmeal or yogurt.

How to serve

6+ months old

Large cooked piece or soft puree

Serve cooked apple as a smooth puree on a pre-loaded spoon, or hand baby a large soft-cooked piece to grip and gnaw. Mix purees with pear or a pinch of cinnamon for variety. No raw apple yet.

How to cook

Peel and core, then steam or bake until completely soft, about 10-12 minutes. It should squash easily between two fingers. Blend with a little of the cooking water for a smooth puree.

9+ months old

Soft-cooked pieces or finely grated raw

About 1/2 inch cooked pieces, or finely grated raw

Offer soft-cooked apple in roughly 1/2-inch pieces for pincer practice. You can start offering finely grated raw apple stirred into oatmeal or yogurt - peel it first and use a ripe, sweet variety. Never raw chunks or slices yet.

How to cook

Steam or bake until soft, about 8-10 minutes, then cut into 1/2-inch pieces that squash easily. A light saute in a little butter with cinnamon or nutmeg adds flavor.

12+ months old

Soft-cooked bite-sized pieces, grated raw, or thin slices

1/2 inch soft-cooked pieces or paper-thin raw slices

Cooked apple is still the easiest option. Raw apple is fine grated or in paper-thin slices, but skip thick chunks and whole wedges - they stay a choking risk well into toddlerhood.

How to cook

Steam, bake, or saute until soft. Baked apple with a pinch of cinnamon makes a simple family dessert. Cook a little less as chewing skills grow if you want more texture.