Rave® Apple
Origin & history
Rave is the consumer brand for the University of Minnesota cultivar MN55. It comes from a cross of Honeycrisp × MonArk and was introduced in the late 2010s. Minnesota‑grown MN55 is marketed locally as First Kiss®; fruit from other regions is sold as Rave® through licensed marketers. It was bred to ripen very early while delivering Honeycrisp‑like crunch.
Appearance
Medium size, round‑conic. Skin is a vivid cherry‑to‑crimson red over a yellow‑green background, with pale lenticels. Flesh is cream‑colored, fine‑grained, and very firm for an early apple.
Flavor & texture
Very crisp and juicy with a tart‑forward bite at harvest that mellows after a few days. Bright, refreshing flavor; holds texture better than most early‑season apples.
Best uses
- Fresh eating (signature early‑season crunch and snap)
- Salads and snack boards (slice just before serving; browns at a normal rate)
- Light baking and quick desserts; for classic tart pies, blend with a firmer late‑season apple
- Applesauce with lively acidity
Season & availability
An early‑season apple: typically August in the Upper Midwest and late July–August in warmer U.S. regions. Limited seasonal window compared with late‑season varieties.
Storage & handling
A short keeper compared with fall apples. Refrigerate at 32–36°F (0–2°C) and enjoy within 2–4 weeks for best crunch and flavor. Choose heavy, firm fruit with saturated red color; avoid bruises and warm storage.
Nutrition (per 100 g, with skin)
About 52 kcal; ~14 g carbohydrate; 2–3 g dietary fiber; small amounts of vitamin C and potassium—typical of dessert apples.
Quick facts
- Brand: Rave® (Minnesota‑grown fruit often sold as First Kiss®)
- Cultivar: MN55 (University of Minnesota)
- Parents: Honeycrisp × MonArk
- Style: very crisp, juicy; tart‑forward then mellower
- Best for: snacking, salads, quick desserts, sauce
- Harvest: early season (July/August, U.S.)
- Storage: short; best within weeks under refrigeration