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Apple for Babies: When and How to Introduce It

The fruit everyone assumes is baby-safe and mostly isn't, at least not raw. Cooked or grated, though, apple is a classic for a reason.

When to introduce: Around 6 months
Common allergen?: No (not a common allergen)
Texture: Cooked soft, or raw finely grated
Key nutrients: Fiber, vitamin C

When can babies eat apple?

Here is the plot twist: raw apple is one of the more common choking hazards for little kids. Cooked until soft (hello, applesauce) or grated fine, it is a lovely early fruit from around 6 months. Save the crunchy slices for the preschool years.

How to prepare apple, by age

6 monthsCook or steam apple until soft, then purée for unsweetened applesauce, or offer a large cooked wedge for baby-led weaning.

9 monthsSoft cooked pieces, or raw apple finely grated.

12 months+Raw apple grated or in very thin slices, with supervision.

Is apple safe? Choking & prep

Raw apple chunks and slices are a choking hazard for babies and toddlers. Cook until soft, or grate raw apple finely. Crunchy apple is for older kids who chew well.

Nutrition

Apple provides fiber and vitamin C. Cooking with the skin on and then puréeing smooth keeps more of the nutrients.

Goes well with

Oatmeal · Cinnamon · Pear · Yogurt

Storage & freezing

Homemade applesauce keeps 3 to 4 days in the fridge and freezes very well in portions.

Frequently asked questions

When can babies eat apple?

Around 6 months, cooked soft or finely grated. It is a great early fruit as long as it is not served in raw chunks.

Can babies eat raw apple?

Not in chunks or slices, which are a choking hazard. Finely grated raw apple is safer for older babies, and crunchy pieces are for older children.

Is applesauce good for babies?

Yes, plain unsweetened applesauce is a great early food. Skip versions with added sugar.

How do I prepare apple for baby-led weaning?

Cook it until soft and offer a large wedge your baby can hold and gum. Raw apple is too firm for baby-led weaning.

Sources

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How we write these: from widely published pediatric guidance (AAP, NIAID 2017 guidelines, the LEAP study), with sources cited on every page. Pending review by a pediatric professional.

This is general information, not medical advice, and has not been individually reviewed for your baby. Always talk to your pediatrician about your baby's diet, introducing allergens, and any reaction. In an emergency, contact emergency services.

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