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This One Trick Will Make Your Apples Stay Fresh for Longer

This is GENIUS.

It turns out you've been slicing and storing apples wrong all this time. We know, we had questions at first too. How else can an apple divide, if not down one side and then the other, leaving two awkward smaller chunks around the core? Is there another way, besides laying the semi-circle chunks flat-side-down and cutting them into several thinner pieces from there? And is there a way to store those slices so the apples stay fresh for longer?

There is, and its benefits are tenfold. Here's what you need to do, and for even more tips, be sure to check out our list of the 100 Easiest Recipes You Can Make.

How to easily slice your apple

The "tic-tac-toe" apple-slicing method is so intuitive that we're baffled that we didn't think of it until our YouTube algorithm graciously led us to a 2015 video demonstrating the hack. As this clever YouTube user explains in the video, you begin this method by making the same cut you normally would down one side.

But then, after chopping the other long side off the apple as well, the unprecedented occurs: you hold both pieces back against the apple and make another cut the long way. You'll end up with an apple sliced to look like a tic-tac-toe board and eight perfect pieces around the core. It's more efficient, more consistent, and the fun doesn't end there.

How to help your apples stay fresh

Your tic-tac-toed apple is not only ready to dip; it's ready to transport. Plastic bags are a thing of the past—simply slip a rubber band around the fruit after it's sliced. This will keep it together, but also keeps the apple from turning that unappetizing, oxidized shade of brown. That way the apple stays fresh for longer!

apple rubber band hack
The King of Random / YouTube

If we ever do go into the office again, this hack will make healthy snack prep faster and more convenient. When you're done slicing, take a moment to read up on all the reasons apples are a necessary diet staple.

More Apple Stories on Eat This, Not That!
Kaley Roberts
Kaley Roberts is a food writer. Read more about Kaley
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