This comes directly from the Wisconsin Apple Grower Association Cookbook.

One of the newest apple varieties, Empire is a cross between a McIntosh and Red Delicious [I never would have guessed that!], was developed at the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station in Geneva and unveiled to the public in 1966.

It’s a medium-sized, attractive, dark red apple that’s an all-around winner in flavor, use and post-harvest storage.

A blend of sweet and tart, this juicy, crisp apple has a creamy white flesh. It’s as well suited for eating fresh and salad use as it is for use in baking, sauce and pies.

Because of its sweetness, Empires are often added to cider blends. Pack small Empires in school lunches. Kids love Empire’s sweet-tart taste and super crunchy texture. Harvest in Wisconsin is from September 25 through October 10, but apples are typically available from September through July.