Sekai Ichi

Sekai Ichi are the most expensive apples in the world, hailing from Japan and selling for more than $20 each in stores. The variety came from a cross between Golden Delicious and Red Delicious. They were first bred in Morioka, but nowadays the apples are mainly grown in Aomori prefecture.

These extremely large apples have a sweet and mild flavor, while the texture is crisp, firm, and juicy. Available from fall through early winter, the Sekai Ichi are so expensive because the growers wash them in honey and brand them by hand, ensuring that they're blemish free.

While growing, the apples are hand-pollinated with a small wand. Sekai Ichi are usually not cooked or baked, but eaten fresh. It's recommended to pair them with other fruits such as pears, blackberries, or citrus.