Sugar Apple in Tagalog is spelled atis.
In the Philippines, atis is a well-loved tropical fruit often enjoyed as a sweet afternoon snack. Many Filipinos remember eating ripe atis straight from backyard trees during its peak season.
Because of its creamy texture and naturally sweet flavor, atis is widely used in desserts, drinks, and simple homemade treats. It is both delicious and nutritious, making it a valuable addition to everyday meals.
What Is Sugar Apple?
Sugar apple, known locally as atis, is a small tropical fruit with bumpy green skin and soft white pulp inside. The flesh is sweet, creamy, and divided into segments with seeds in the center.
Its scientific name is Annona squamosa.
Sugar apple is native to the tropical Americas but is now widely grown across Southeast Asia, especially in the Philippines.
Color: Green outer skin, white creamy flesh
Taste: Very sweet and custard-like
Common Nickname: Custard apple
Sugar Apple Vocabulary Words
Below are common English words related to sugar apple and their Tagalog translations.
| # | English | Tagalog |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sugar Apple | Atis |
| 2 | Fruit | Prutas |
| 3 | Sweet | Matamis |
| 4 | Seed | Buto |
| 5 | Peel | Balat |
| 6 | Flesh | Laman |
| 7 | Tree | Puno |
| 8 | Harvest | Ani |
| 9 | Market | Palengke |
| 10 | Juice | Katas |
| 11 | Smoothie | Inuming prutas |
| 12 | Dessert | Panghimagas |
| 13 | Ice Cream | Sorbetes |
| 14 | Fiber | Hibla |
| 15 | Vitamin C | Bitamina C |
| 16 | Healthy | Masustansya |
| 17 | Fresh | Sariwa |
| 18 | Season | Panahon |
| 19 | Creamy | Malinamnam |
| 20 | Snack | Meryenda |
How Is Sugar Apple Used?
Sugar apple can be enjoyed in many delicious ways.
1. Eaten Fresh
The most common way to eat sugar apple is fresh.
- Peel the skin
- Remove the seeds
- Scoop out the pulp
This allows you to enjoy its natural sweetness.
2. Blended into Smoothies
The creamy texture makes it ideal for drinks.
- Mixed with milk
- Combined with banana
- Blended with mango
It creates a rich and refreshing beverage.
3. Made into Desserts
Sugar apple is often used in Filipino sweets.
It can be added to cakes, puddings, or even Halo-halo for extra creaminess.
4. Turned into Ice Cream
Its custard-like texture is perfect for frozen treats.
- Homemade ice cream
- Sorbet
- Frozen fruit blends
This enhances flavor while keeping desserts naturally sweet.
5. Prepared as Juice
The pulp can be blended with water and lightly sweetened.
- Fresh fruit juice
- Chilled summer drink
It is especially refreshing during hot weather.
Health Benefits of Sugar Apple
Sugar apple is not only tasty but also nutritious.
Rich in Vitamin C
Helps strengthen the immune system.
High in Fiber
Supports digestion and prevents constipation.
Contains Antioxidants
Protects cells from damage.
Supports Heart Health
Potassium helps regulate blood pressure.
Promotes Skin Health
Vitamin C supports collagen production.
Provides Energy
Natural sugars give quick energy.
How to Use Sugar Apple at Home
Here are simple ways to enjoy sugar apple:
Method 1: Peel and eat fresh as a snack.
Method 2: Blend into smoothies with milk or yogurt.
Method 3: Add to desserts like cakes or shaved ice.
Method 4: Make homemade ice cream.
Method 5: Prepare fresh juice for hot days.
Commonly Used Example Phrases in Tagalog
Here are 10 natural everyday sentences using atis:
- I bought ripe atis at the market.
Bumili ako ng hinog na atis sa palengke. - Atis is very sweet.
Napakatamis ng atis. - Peel the atis before eating.
Balatan mo ang atis bago kainin. - The atis tree is full of fruit.
Puno ng prutas ang puno ng atis. - Atis is in season this summer.
Panahon ng atis tuwing tag-init. - My mother made atis ice cream.
Gumawa ang nanay ko ng sorbetes na atis. - I like to eat atis for a snack.
Gusto kong kumain ng atis bilang meryenda. - The atis tastes creamy and sweet.
Malinamnam at matamis ang atis. - Atis is healthy and nutritious.
Masustansya at mabuti sa kalusugan ang atis. - We harvested atis from our garden.
Umanni kami ng atis sa aming hardin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is Sugar Apple in Tagalog?
Sugar apple in Tagalog is called atis.
2. What is the scientific name of Sugar Apple?
Its scientific name is Annona squamosa.
3. Can it replace something similar?
It can sometimes replace custard apple in desserts and smoothies.
4. Is it healthy?
Yes. It contains Vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.
5. How do you prepare or use it?
Peel the skin, remove the seeds, and eat fresh or use in drinks and desserts.
Conclusion
Sugar apple, locally known as atis, is a creamy and naturally sweet tropical fruit enjoyed by many Filipino families. From fresh snacks to frozen desserts, it offers versatility and delightful flavor.
With its nutritional benefits and rich taste, sugar apple remains a seasonal favorite that adds sweetness to everyday life in the Philippines.


