Apple-like flavors in coffee can take on many different forms. The more common ones we use relate to malic acid brightnessA euphemistic term we use often to describe acidity in coffee. A bright coffee has more high, acidic notes. : A euphemistic term to describe acidity in coffee...., which can recall different appleAn acid that adds to favorable perceptions of cup quality; malic acid often adds apple-like acidity, and perhaps other taste aspects recalling apples. Malic acid is yet another... types: green (Granny Smith type for example), red apple types, or milder yellow types like Golden Delicious.
Sometimes apple taste seems to emphasize the slight astringency of apple skins.
We also often note dried apple, a distinct taste from fresh apple, or baked apple. And sometimes apple tastes are less acidic and more a part of a combined confectionary or baked goods taste: apple tart, apple pie, crust.
