An apple slicer is a kitchen gadget that is made specifically to slice apples into neat little pieces. There are different types of apple slicers to produce different shapes of apple pieces. Some apple slicers also include an apple corer and a peeler to cut, core and peel an apple all at the same time. An apple slicer might entice even the pickiest of eaters to eat apples after they have been cut into bite-size shapes.
A basic apple slicer looks like a large circle with a smaller circle in the middle, with spokes that radiate between the bigger circle and the smaller circle. The smaller circle in the middle cuts out the core, and the spokes cut the apple into equal-size wedges. There is a handle on each side to make it easier to push the slicer through the apple, from the top to the bottom.
Apple slicers produce eight, 12 or 16 identical apple wedges, so there is one made for every job. Newer versions can be customized by a dial to produce different sizes of slices, so only one slicer is needed. The slicer can be stored easily in a drawer and is safe for the dishwasher.
A spiral apple slicer will create perfect spirals as it cuts the fruit from the core, usually in one long piece. This disc-shaped apple slicer is made from stainless steel, so it is easy to clean and does not rust. When a whole apple is not needed, the spiral slicer can be left pressed against the fruit to preserve the uneaten portion for later. This type of apple slicer usually can fit in a drawer for storage.
A professional tabletop apple slicer is a cutting tool that usually will core, peel and cut an apple all at the same time. These professional slicers usually are large and will have to be stored in a cabinet or closet. The tabletop apple slicer typically mounts to the edge of a counter or can be suctioned to the top of a smooth, clean surface. The operator places an apple on the corer end, adjusts the slicing and peeling blades as needed, then turns the handle at the opposite end. This will spin the apple to cut, peel and core it simultaneously.
An apple slicer is a fun way to prepare fruit. The slicer can cut an apple into wedges perfectly sized for dipping or into fun, slinky spirals. An apple slicer also can be used on yams, turnips and potatoes.
