Big, beautiful, and bursting with flavor, Mutsu apples are hard to miss! Sometimes called Crispin, this large golden-green apple is known for its juicy crunch, balanced flavor, and versatility in the kitchen. And did we mention it was JUST planted in spring 2026?
Mutsu is a Japanese apple variety introduced in the 1940s. It was developed in Aomori Prefecture, Japan, and is a cross between Golden Delicious and Indo. The variety was named Mutsu after the former Japanese province where it was developed. In some parts of the world, Mutsu is also marketed under the name Crispin.
Mutsu apples are known for being large, sometimes very large! They typically have a rounded or slightly irregular shape and greenish-yellow to golden skin. As they mature, they can develop a warmer golden color, particularly where the fruit receives plenty of sunlight. Inside, Mutsu has creamy white flesh that is firm, crisp, and juicy. If you’re looking for an apple that makes a statement in your picking bag, Mutsu certainly qualifies!
Mutsu has a sweet, slightly tart flavor with a rich, refreshing quality. Its flavor is often described as mildly aromatic, with some people noticing subtle honey or pear-like notes. The texture is one of its biggest attractions: firm, crisp, and juicy. That combination makes Mutsu satisfying to eat fresh while also giving it the strength to perform beautifully in cooked recipes.
Mutsu is generally a late-season apple, typically harvested in October depending on growing conditions. Its later harvest means Mutsu is often part of the beautiful transition into the final stretch of the fall apple season. At Apple Holler, exact picking dates can vary each year based on weather and growing conditions. Mother Nature makes the schedule! If you’re planning your visit specifically for Mutsu apples, check Apple Holler’s current apple availability before coming.
Mutsu is one of those apples that is excellent both fresh and cooked. Its firm flesh holds up well when heated, making it a particularly useful baking apple.
Try Mutsu apples for:
Their large size also means one apple can go a long way in the kitchen!
If you’ve encountered an apple called Crispin, you may actually have already encountered Mutsu! “Crispin” is a name used for Mutsu apples in some markets, particularly in the United States. The two names can make apple shopping a little confusing, but they’re referring to the same variety. So if you see Mutsu or Crispin on a list of apples, you know you’re looking at the same big, crisp, golden-green apple.
Mutsu apples have a connection to Golden Delicious, which is one reason their golden coloring and sweetness may feel familiar. Mutsu has developed its own identity, especially thanks to its impressive size and firm, juicy texture. Because Mutsu can grow quite large, it’s a variety that can make kids especially excited when they’re picking apples. “Look how BIG this one is!” is practically guaranteed to happen at least once.
Mutsu apples were just planted in 2026, meaning we won’t get to experience this delicious variety for about another 2 years. We cannot wait to pick them for our lunchboxes, grab a few for a pie, or simply enjoy that satisfying crunch right in the orchard!
Variety: Mutsu
Also known as: Crispin
Origin: Japan
Parentage: Golden Delicious × Indo
Color: Greenish-yellow to golden
Flesh: Creamy white
Flavor: Sweet, mildly tart, juicy, and aromatic
Texture: Firm, crisp, and juicy
Season: Late season
Best for: Fresh eating, baking, applesauce, and cooking
Fun fact: Mutsu apples are also commonly known as Crispin apples.
