Apple for Babies

Complete guide on how to prepare and serve apple to your baby, by age.

High in Vitamin CHydratingEasy to DigestFiber-RichNatural SweetnessImmune-Supportive

Safety Information

Allergen Risk

Very Low (1/5)

Choking Hazard

High (4/5)

6–9 Months 9–18 Months 18+ Months

How to Serve Apple to a 6–9 Months Old

How to Cut

For babies 6-9 months, apples must always be served cooked and soft to avoid choking. Peel, core, and slice the apple, then steam or simmer until you can easily mash it with a fork (about 10-15 minutes). Mash or puree until smooth, or offer as very soft spears large enough for your baby to grasp in their palm (about 2-3 cm wide and 10 cm long / 0.75-1.25" wide x 4" long). Ensure no firm or raw pieces remain. Never offer raw apple at this age due to choking risk.

Serving Instructions

At 6-9 months, offer 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 ml / 0.5-1 fl oz) of mashed or pureed apple as part of a balanced meal alongside iron-rich foods (like lentils or chicken), a source of healthy fat (such as olive oil or avocado), and a vitamin C booster (apple itself supports iron absorption). Varied meals support flavor learning and nutritional needs.

How to Serve Apple to a 9–18 Months Old

How to Cut

For 9-18 months, continue to serve apples steamed or simmered until soft as raw apple remains a significant choking hazard before about 24 months. You can cut them into bite-sized pieces (about 1 cm / 0.5") or serve in soft spears for practice with self-feeding. Always monitor your child closely and make sure all pieces are soft and easy to squish between your fingers. If grated raw apple is desired, ensure it is finely grated and closely watched, but steaming is safest.

Serving Instructions

At 9-18 months, offer 2-3 tablespoons (30-45 ml / 1-1.5 fl oz) of soft, bite-sized apple or mashed apple as one part of a meal. Pair it with protein (beans, fish, or eggs), whole grains, and a fat source. Always serve soft or finely grated and monitor closely, as raw apple remains a strong choking risk.

How to Serve Apple to a 18+ Months Old

How to Cut

After 18 months, if your child is an established, confident chewer, you may offer very thinly sliced raw apple (no thicker than 3 mm / 1/8"). For many toddlers, steamed or baked apple remains safest until closer to 24 months or beyond. Always avoid large raw chunks or firm slices, and supervise closely. Apple can also be served in small, soft cubes, whole baked halves, or grated fresh. Adjust texture based on your child’s chewing skills.

Serving Instructions

For 18 months and older, continue to serve 2-4 tablespoons (30-60 ml / 1-2 fl oz) of apple, steamed, baked, or very thinly sliced raw, as part of a varied plate. Combine with leafy greens, whole grains, and protein options to encourage balanced eating habits. Watch closely if offering raw apple and adapt texture to your child’s chewing abilities.