SweeTango® Apple
Origin & history
SweeTango is the brand for the University of Minnesota cultivar Minneiska, a cross of Honeycrisp × Zestar! (Zestar!’s cultivar name is Minnewashta). Developed for early‑season crunch and released in the late 2000s; first U.S. retail launch was 2009 via the Next Big Thing grower cooperative under a managed program.
Appearance
Medium size, round‑conic. Red to orange‑red blush with striping over a yellow‑cream ground and noticeable pale lenticels. Flesh is cream‑colored, very firm and juicy.
Flavor & texture
Very crisp with a sweet‑tart balance. Bright aromatics often described as citrus, spice, and honey; loud, shattery bite (a hallmark carried from Honeycrisp). Holds texture better than most early apples.
Best uses
- Fresh eating (signature crunch and aromatics)
- Salads and snack boards (slice just before serving)
- Light baking (crisps/galettes); for a tarter pie, blend with Granny Smith or Pink Lady®
Season & availability
An early to early‑mid season apple: typically late August through September in northern U.S. orchards. Distribution is strongest in the Upper Midwest, Northeast, and Pacific Northwest during early fall, with limited volumes later from storage.
Storage & handling
Refrigerate at 32–36°F (0–2°C). Better keeper than most early apples; quality is best within 3–6 weeks at home (longer in controlled‑atmosphere storage). Choose heavy, firm fruit with vivid blush; 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/cultivar: SweeTango® / Minneiska (University of Minnesota)
- Parents: Honeycrisp × Zestar! (Minnewashta)
- Style: very crisp, juicy; sweet‑tart with citrus/spice notes
- Best for: snacking, salads, light baking
- Harvest: late Aug–Sept (Northern Hemisphere)
- Storage: good keeper for an early apple; weeks at home, months in CA storage