It’s a crisp autumn night, and you’re setting up the perfect caramel apple bar to enjoy while sitting with friends around a warm bonfire. For the perfect apple slices, you need the Best Apple Slicer.
Not only does a great apple slicer make the perfect slices, but it also saves time in the kitchen. So you can be out enjoying the bonfire with everyone else.
Read on for our top picks of the best apple slicers, including one that comes in several colors, one that is fun for kids to use, and even one that’s not technically an apple slicer.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
Ookuu Apple Slicer Corer
Best for Large Slices:
Mueller Speed Slicer
Budget Option:
Calphalon Easy Grip
Best Overall
Ookuu Apple Slicer Corer
The Ookuu apple slicer corer makes 16 smaller wedges, as opposed to the six or eight most other slicers make.
These slices are perfect for snacking and making pies. It’s also perfect for that caramel apple bar because let’s be honest, the apple is basically just a carrier for all the yummy toppings, so why have a thick chunk?
Three of our favorite features on the Ookuu apple slicer are the grooved base, the guide, and the fact that it can cut large apples.
If you’ve ever used an apple slicer, you know how frustrating it is to push the slicer all the way to the bottom only to have it not cut all the way through the apple. The grooved base on the Ookuu apple slicer means the apple sits up higher. That means the blades go all the way through the apple.
Another reason the Ookuu is our top pick for the best apple slicer is that it has guides that the handles follow. This holds the apple in the upright position. That means no fighting an apple that is falling over while you’re trying to slice it.
Finally, the Ookuu can cut large apples up to 4.5″ in diameter, meaning it can handle a large Honeycrisp, Jonagold, or Cortland with no problem.
Pros
- Cuts large apples
- Can be used for other large produce
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- Bits of apple can get stuck in the base
- Because you’re making twice the slices, some people found it harder to push down the blades
Best for Large Slices
Mueller Speed Slicer
The Mueller Speed Slicer is a very close second on our list of Best Apple Slicers. Like the Ookuu, it has a grooved base and a guide.
However, the guide for this slicer is only on one side, so you can still get it a little bit crooked and end up fighting the apple you’re trying to slice.
The Mueller also has a grooved base, so the blades cut all the way through the apple.
It does only make eight slices, rather than 16, but it is easier to push the blades down. Folks with arthritic hands say it is easier to use.
While the Mueller does make larger slices, it is not for larger apples. This slicer is best for medium-sized apples.
One downside to this slicer is that the blades are serrated. While that’s good for cutting, it does make it a little harder when it’s time to clean up, as apple bits can get stuck in the serrations.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Good for those with arthritic hands
- Non-skid base to hold the fruit in place
Cons
- Blades are serrated, so not as easy to clean
- Not suitable for large apples
Budget-Safe
Calphalon Easy Grip
The first thing you’ll notice about the Calphalon Easy Grip is that it’s taller than most of the other options. The oversized handles allow for more leverage and control when slicing your apples, which is one reason it’s on our best apple slicer list.
While the oversized handles give your more leverage, they can make keeping your apple steady on the counter a little bit trickier.
The Calphalon is good when slicing smaller apples with ease. It doesn’t have a base so it may be harder to keep upright, and you may need to use more force to slice your apples all the way through.
But, with the Calphalon lifetime warranty, you don’t have to worry if you use a little too much force and something happens.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Oversized silicone handles are more comfortable
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Only cuts smaller apples
- Oversized handles can make it difficult to store
SCHVUBENR Large Apple Slicer
The Schvubenr apple slicer is perfect when you can’t decide if you’d rather have an apple slicer that makes eight or 16 slices because it falls right in the middle at 12.
It’s also very affordable at one of the lowest price points on this list. This slicer also has silicone handles for more comfort when pushing down.
However, it does not have a base. That means you may be fighting to keep your apple upright. You’ll also need to press down hard on the blades, and maybe even push up from the bottom to get it to cut all the way through your apples.
With the Schvubenr slicer, you can choose from four colors, which is one of the reasons it made it onto our best apple slicer list.
Pros
- Affordable
- Comes in a variety of colors
- Can cut larger apples and other fruits
Cons
- No base so fruit may slip
- No grooved base, so it may not cut all the way through
Amco Dial-A-Slice
The Amco Dial-A-Slice is another great one when you just can’t decide how many slices you want because you can make 8 or 16 slices with the turn of the blade.
The Amco comes with a blade protector that can be used as a base to help push the sices out when it doesn’t cut all the way through. You’ll want to use the protector when storing the Amco, as the blades are very sharp.
Even though it’s handy to be able to choose the number of slices, bits of apple can get stuck in between the mechanisms making this slicer harder to clean. But, overall, if you’re looking for the best apple slicer, this is definitely one to consider.
Pros
- Can cut 8 or 16 slices
- Comes with a blade protector
- Sharp blades
Cons
- The slicing base doesn’t always perfectly align
- It can be hard to unlock to switch the number of slices
Johnny Apple Slicer, Corer, Peeler
The Johnny Apple made our list of the best apple slicers because it’s an all-in-one tool. It slices, cores, and peels with just the crank of a handle.
It is a very heavy-duty tool with a suction cup base, so you don’t have to worry about it slipping around on your countertop.
Unlike the other slicers on our list, the Johnny Apple cuts the apple into thin slices rather than wedges. That makes this machine perfect for making apple pies or apple chips, or even for dehydrating.
Another reason the Johnny Apple is on the best apple slicer list is that it’s just fun to use! Kids, and adults, enjoy watching the curls of peel fall away as they turn the easy-to-use handle. The apple slices that come off at the end are kind of spiral-sliced, making snacking fun for the kids.
Pros
- Non-slip suction base
- Works with any size fruit
- Can also use without peeling apple
Cons
- Pricey
- May be too large for some
- Can be tricky to get the apple on the forks perfectly
Geedel French Fry Cutter
When is an apple slicer not an apple slicer? When it’s a french fry cutter! However, it made it onto our list of the Best Apple Slicers because it does slice apples.
There is an interchangeable blade for cutting apples into wedges. But, since you have such a cool tool at your disposal that can cut an apple into fry shapes, why wouldn’t you?
One other nice thing about the Geedel cutter is that all your cut pieces are confined to a container after cutting.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Can make apple fries
Cons
- Can be hard to clean, but comes with a cleaning brush
Best Apple Slicer Buyer’s Guide
If you’ve always just pulled a paring knife out of the drawer to cut your apples, an apple slicer may be a real time-saver for you. Rather than make several time-consuming slices with a knife, apple slicers will cut your apple into wedges or fries in one motion.
With the exception of the Johnny Apple, you’ve probably noticed that most apple slicers are the same concept, just with improvements like silicone handles, non-skid bases with guides, interchangeable blades, etc.
So, what do you look for when searching for the best apple slicer? Glad you asked. Keep reading for a few features to consider.
Size Matters
When choosing the best apple slicer, keep in mind what size apples you’re wanting to slice. Most slicers can accommodate a Golden Delicious or smaller Honeycrisp. But, if you want to cut something larger, like a Mollie’s delicious, you’ll need to grab the Ookuu.
Also, most of the slicers mentioned can accommodate other types of fruits and vegetables. Think about the size of other produce you might want to slice when purchasing your apple slicer.
Blades
All of the slicers on our best apple slicer list have stainless steel blades, which means they are resistant to rust.
Most of the slicers have smooth blades, with the exception of the Mueller, which has serrated blades. The serrated blades might be a little harder to clean, but other than that, there’s not really a lot of difference. It just comes down to personal preference.
Always be careful when using your apple slicer. Even though the blades on most of the slicers might not be as sharp as your paring knife, they are still blades.
Handles
The handles on the wedge-type slicers are generally the same stainless material as the slicer itself, or they have a silicone or plastic coating. The advantage of the coating is that it is more comfortable when using force to push down on the slicer.
When considering handles, the wider the handle, the better. Wider, softer handles allow you to slice your apples with less force.
Clean Up
When choosing any kind of kitchen appliance, easy clean-up is at the top of the list for most people. And, the best apple slicer is no exception.
Let’s be honest; if you can’t just rinse something under hot water or throw it in the dishwasher, chances are it’s not going to get used that often.
Other than little bits of apple occasionally getting stuck in the grooves of the bases or blade serrations, all of the slicers listed are easy to clean and store away. Just make sure you at least rinse them soon after using them. Apple bits will dry quickly and be harder to remove if left on the blade.
Safety
While an apple slicer can be much safer than a kitchen knife for slicing your apples, there are still safety features to consider. One reason an apple slicer is safer is that the handles are set above the blades, keeping your fingers away from them.
Another reason slicers are safer is the apple is sliced in one downward motion. Because of this, the blades don’t have to be as sharp as a knife to get the job done.
Again, keep in mind, these are blades and they do cut. Even with the best apple slicer, be sure to use caution, just like when using any other kitchen tool.
Covers
When shopping for your best apple slicer, another safety feature to look for is a blade cover. As already stated, these are blades and are still sharp.
Some slicers, like our top two picks, include bases that act as a safety feature for covering the blades when storing.
If you choose the Schvubenr or Calphalon slicers, they don’t come with a cover. So, be sure to store them blade-side down in your kitchen drawer.
However, if you would feel better knowing you don’t have to worry about knicking your finger while rummaging around in the kitchen drawer, put your apple slicer in a freezer bag before storing it away.
How to Use an Apple Slicer with a Base
You’ve taken everything into consideration and decided on the best apple slicer features to fit your needs. The next thing to consider is whether you get a wedge slicer with or without a base, or not a wedge slicer at all. So, let’s take a look at how each slicer works.
For cutting apples with a slicer that includes a base, start by placing your apple upright on the base. Position your slicer over the apple and push down, keeping the slicer level. Easy as that, you have a sliced and cored apple.
How to Use an Apple Slicer Without a Base
If you decided the best apple slicer for you is one without a base, here’s a tip to help keep you from chasing your apple all over the counter.
First, hold the apple with your non-dominant hand and, using the handle, place the apple slicer on top with your other hand. Next, place your non-dominant hand on the other handle and push down slightly to get the slicer started and hold your apple in place.
Making this small indentation in the top of your apple will make it easier to keep the slicer on the apple as you start slicing. Now, you can easily push the slicer down and cut perfect wedges.
Just be sure to press straight down so you don’t get crooked apple slices and part of the core in your finished product.
How to use the Apple Slicer, Peeler, Corer
If the best apple slicer for your needs looks more like the Johnny Apple Slicer, Peeler, Corer, there are a few more steps to consider, but it’s still more efficient, and fun, than a paring knife.
Start by securing this tool to your counter by pushing down the handle for the suction cup. Then release and pull back the bar with the handle. Place your apple on the fork. Finally, turn the handle to make perfectly round slices than can be cut in half or left whole.
If you don’t want your apple peeled, simply lock back the peeling mechanism on the side.
Wrapping up the Best Apple Slicer
Are you ready to make the perfect apple slices for that caramel apple bar, snack, or pie? As you can see, choosing the best apple slicer can be as easy as pie, no matter what features you’re looking for.
While all of these are great choices, our top pick for the best apple slicer is still the Ookuu Slicer. Its ease of use, smaller wedges, and ability to cut larger fruits and vegetables earn it the top spot.
Before you go out and buy a bushel basket of apples, be sure to take a look at our Apple Page to help find the best apples to use for snacking, pie-making, or that caramel apple bar.
- About the Author
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Melissa Goins is a wife, mom, grandma to three beautiful grandbabies, and a writer for Minneopa Orchards. She is a lifelong resident of Indiana and currently resides on a 15-acre homestead with her family where she enjoys gardening, canning, and running a produce stand that is known for its many varieties of tomatoes.
Growing up, her parents always had a large garden and Saturdays during the summer were spent preserving the harvest. Now, four generations work in the garden and preserve the harvest together.
Melissa loves trying new methods of growing and preservation, and varieties of fruits and vegetables in the garden — which is why she loves writing for Minneopa Orchards. From growing Cherokee Purple tomatoes to the best way to preserve carrots, there’s so much to learn, enjoy, and share while getting dirt under your fingernails.