Malaga’s Top Autumn Fruits: Discover, Buy, and Enjoy Them

Looking to savor the best of Malaga’s seasonal produce this autumn? From exotic tastes like chirimoyas and persimmons to the sweet crunch of pomegranates, autumn is the perfect time to explore Malaga’s markets and enjoy fresh, locally grown fruits. Whether you’re visiting Atarazanas Market in the city center or shopping at smaller local markets like Mercado de la Merced, you’ll find a variety of seasonal fruits that capture the essence of autumn in Malaga. This guide introduces you to the top autumn fruits, their unique flavors, and the best places to buy them, ensuring you make the most of your autumn fruit experience.

Why Are Fruits Delicious in Autumn?

Autumn is one of the best times for fruit in Malaga because the region’s warm summer and early autumn temperatures allow many fruits to ripen naturally under the sun. This results in sweeter and more flavorful fruits, making autumn the perfect season to enjoy Malaga’s diverse harvest. The combination of longer ripening periods and cooler nights gives autumn fruits a rich taste that is hard to match in other seasons.

Caquis (Persimmons)

Caquis, also known as persimmons, originate from Japan but grow well in southern Spain’s climate. These bright red fruits are packed with vitamin A and have a fibrous, sticky texture when fully ripe. They come into season from mid-September to mid-October and are typically sold in cartons of 4, 6, or 12.

How to Eat Caquis

Wait until they’re very ripe (the redder the fruit, the riper it is). Break the fruit open and scoop out the flesh with a spoon. Be cautious of small seeds inside.

Chirimoyas (Custard Apples)

Chirimoyas, or custard apples, thrive along the Axarquía coast. Their sweet, creamy flavor combines the tastes of banana, vanilla, and custard. Chirimoyas are rich in vitamins B and C and are in season from mid-September to early February, peaking in autumn.

How to Eat Chirimoyas

Once ripe, chirimoyas become soft and slightly brown on the outside. Slice them open and enjoy the creamy inside with a spoon, but be mindful of the large black seeds.

Granadas (Pomegranates)

Granadas, or pomegranates, are a symbol of southern Spain and are widely available in Malaga during autumn. Their season lasts from late September to November, and they’re packed with vitamins A and C.

How to Eat Granadas

Test for ripeness by checking if the skin feels soft. Slice the fruit open and eat the juicy seeds or use a juicer to extract the fresh juice.

Higos (Figs)

Fresh figs are available from August to mid-September, while dried figs are sold year-round. Figs are a great source of fiber and calcium, and they’re commonly enjoyed in both sweet and savory dishes in Malaga.

How to Eat Higos

Fresh figs can be eaten whole, while dried figs are often used in desserts or paired with cheese for a delightful autumn snack.

Uvas (Grapes)

Muscatel grapes are one of Malaga’s autumn specialties. These sweet, juicy grapes are in season from mid-August to late September, and they’re often used to make Malaga’s famous wine or sold dried as raisins.

How to Eat Uvas

Ripe Muscatel grapes are typically brownish in color. Locals recommend buying the “ugliest” grapes for the sweetest taste. You can eat them fresh, dried as raisins, or even pressed into wine.

Where to Buy Fresh Autumn Fruit in Malaga

The best places to buy fresh autumn fruit in Malaga are the city’s vibrant markets. Atarazanas Market, located on the Alameda Principal, is the largest and offers a wide variety of seasonal produce. Mercado de la Merced and Mercado del Carmen are also excellent spots to find fresh, local fruits during autumn. For those looking for organic produce, the weekly Eco-Market near the city center is a great option, featuring farmers from around the region.