Are Honeycrisp Apples Low in Sugar?

January 3, 2026 •

3 min read

While some sources incorrectly claim that Honeycrisp apples are low in sugar due to their perceived mild taste, a closer look at nutritional data reveals they contain a moderate to high amount of natural sugars compared to tarter varieties. This often surprises consumers who equate sweetness with high sugar content, but flavor is only one part of the equation.

Quick Summary

Honeycrisp apples are not low in sugar; they contain a moderate amount compared to other apple varieties. Their high water content and crisp texture can make them seem less sugary, but they are sweeter than tarter apples like Granny Smith. The key is understanding natural sugars and how fiber affects their absorption.

Key Points

Moderate Sugar Content: Honeycrisp apples are not low in sugar; they contain a moderate-to-high level compared to other varieties.
High in Natural Sugars: The sweetness in Honeycrisp comes from natural fruit sugars, not added sugars like those in processed foods.
Nutrient-Rich Package: All apples, including Honeycrisp, provide fiber and antioxidants that slow sugar absorption and offer health benefits.
Low Glycemic Impact: Due to their fiber content, apples have a low to moderate glycemic index, meaning they won't cause a rapid blood sugar spike.
Tart Apples are Lower in Sugar: Varieties like Granny Smith contain less sugar and are a better choice for those seeking the lowest possible sugar fruit option.
Pair with Protein: To further regulate blood sugar, enjoy Honeycrisp apples alongside a protein or fat source like nut butter or cheese.
Focus on Overall Health: The minor sugar differences between apple varieties are less significant than the overall nutritional benefits provided by eating a whole, fresh fruit.

Understanding Sugar in Fruit: Natural vs. Added

When evaluating if Honeycrisp apples are low in sugar, it's essential to differentiate between natural and added sugars. The sugars in an apple, which include fructose, glucose, and sucrose, are naturally occurring and come packaged with beneficial fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This differs significantly from the added sugars found in processed foods and drinks, which are stripped of fiber and can cause blood sugar spikes. The fiber in a whole apple slows the absorption of its natural sugars, preventing the rapid blood glucose surge that added sugars can trigger.

Honeycrisp vs. Other Popular Apple Varieties

To truly understand the sugar content of a Honeycrisp, it's helpful to compare it to other common apple types. Based on USDA data, Honeycrisp apples have a moderate-to-high sugar content, typically around 12.4 grams per 100 grams. This places them on the sweeter end of the spectrum, notably higher than tarter varieties.

Apple Sugar Content Comparison


Apple Variety	Total Sugar (per 100g)	Taste Profile	Notes
Granny Smith	10.6 g	Tart	Often recommended for baking due to its tangy flavor. Lowest sugar among common varieties.
Red Delicious	12.2 g	Mildly Sweet	Slightly lower sugar than Honeycrisp, with less crisp texture.
Honeycrisp	12.4 g	Sweet, Balanced Tartness	Known for its exceptionally crisp texture and juicy, sweet flavor.
Fuji	13.3 g	Very Sweet	One of the sweetest apple varieties, with a higher sugar content than Honeycrisp.

The Role of Glycemic Index

An apple's effect on blood sugar is measured by its glycemic index (GI), which ranks carbohydrate-containing foods based on how they affect blood sugar levels. Despite having a moderate sugar content, apples generally have a low to moderate GI, typically ranging from 28 to 44, which means they cause a slower, more gradual rise in blood sugar. The high fiber content in apples is a key factor in this slow absorption. For individuals monitoring their blood sugar, this low GI means that all apple varieties, including the Honeycrisp, can be a healthy part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.

Health Benefits of Eating Honeycrisp Apples

Even with its higher sugar content compared to some varieties, the Honeycrisp apple provides several notable health benefits due to its overall nutritional profile.

Rich in Antioxidants: Like all apples, Honeycrisp contains polyphenols and other antioxidants that help protect the body from cellular damage and may reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.
Promotes Digestive Health: The high fiber content, particularly soluble fiber, supports a healthy digestive system, aids in regularity, and feeds beneficial gut bacteria.
Supports Heart Health: The soluble fiber, pectin, can help lower cholesterol levels, and the flavonoids may reduce the risk of heart disease.
Aids in Weight Management: As a high-fiber, low-calorie snack, apples can help increase feelings of fullness, which can assist with appetite control and weight management.
Provides Vitamins and Minerals: Honeycrisp apples contain vitamin C, potassium, and other essential nutrients that contribute to overall health and wellness.

How to Incorporate Honeycrisp Apples into a Balanced Diet

Moderation is key when enjoying any fruit, and the Honeycrisp apple is no exception, especially for those watching their sugar intake. To get the most out of this flavorful fruit, consider pairing it with a source of protein or healthy fat to further stabilize blood sugar levels. For example, enjoy sliced Honeycrisp with a tablespoon of nut butter or a small handful of almonds. This combination can help extend satiety and prevent rapid blood sugar fluctuations. For a simple and healthy dessert, serve baked Honeycrisp apples with a sprinkle of cinnamon, which has been shown to have blood sugar-regulating properties.

Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Honeycrisp Sugar

To answer the central question, Honeycrisp apples are not low in sugar, but they are a very healthy choice. While their sugar content is higher than tart apples like Granny Smiths, their nutritional value—rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants—makes them a far healthier option than sugary processed snacks. The low glycemic impact of a whole apple, thanks to its fiber content, means it won't cause the same blood sugar spikes as refined sugar. When eaten as part of a balanced diet and paired with protein or healthy fats, a delicious Honeycrisp can be enjoyed without concern. Ultimately, the best apple for you is the one you enjoy eating, and all apples contribute positively to overall health.

Resources: For more on how fruit fiber affects sugar absorption, consult reliable nutrition sources like the Cleveland Clinic's health information at https://health.clevelandclinic.org/which-apples-are-healthiest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Honeycrisp apples are a healthy choice for most people, even those monitoring their sugar intake. While they are sweeter than some other varieties, the natural sugars are balanced by high fiber content, which slows digestion and prevents a rapid blood sugar spike.

The sugar in a Honeycrisp apple is naturally occurring fructose and is packaged with fiber, vitamins, and water. Candy contains added, refined sugars that lack these nutrients and are absorbed quickly, leading to blood sugar spikes. The fiber in the apple mitigates the effect of its natural sugars.

Among common varieties, Granny Smith apples typically have the lowest sugar content. They are also known for their distinctly tart flavor.

No, like most whole apples, Honeycrisp apples have a low to moderate glycemic index, meaning they cause a gradual, not rapid, increase in blood sugar.

Yes, Honeycrisp apples are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, which support heart health, digestion, and the immune system. The overall nutritional benefits far outweigh the sugar content for most healthy individuals.

Yes, eating an apple with a source of protein or healthy fat, such as nut butter or cheese, can help slow the absorption of its natural sugars and lead to more stable blood sugar levels.

You can't reliably tell the sugar content just by appearance. While a sweeter variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp might be redder or have a distinct coloration, you should rely on nutritional information or compare known varieties to understand their sugar levels.