How to Find Golden Apples and Unlock the Secret Gold Bar Recipe

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By Alexandria LopezStaff Writer

Side-by-side images show a video game character in armor. Left: close-up of ornate armor and a shield. Right: profile view with fur accents, a serious expression.
  • Primary Subject: Crimson Desert
  • Key Update: Players can farm Golden Apples from hedgehogs at Grey Rock Dock and use a hidden recipe in Pailune to craft high-value Gold Bars.
  • Status: Confirmed
  • Last Verified: April 8, 2026
  • Quick Answer: Shoot "Golden Apple hedgehogs" at Grey Rock Dock between 4–7 PM, then use the recipe from Pailune's Witch Hideout to craft bars with Elowen.

Do you want to get rich in Crimson Desert? Then you need to get your hands on Golden Apples.

Golden Apples are used to smelt Gold Bars, which can be sold for a large amount of silver. If you're looking to purchase top-tier gear, craft materials, and expensive items. While you can steal Gold Bars, another way to get them quickly is by getting Golden Apples.

And here's how to do it.

How to Find Golden Apples in Crimson Desert

The thing about Golden Apples is that you won't be able to see them - only hedgehogs can see them. So, you'll need to use these creatures to your advantage.

Video game interface showing a materials list for crafting. Highlighted are special and rare materials, including "Golden Apple," with a game landscape background.
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Credit: Pearl Abyss

First, you'll need to go northwest of Demeniss to Grey Rock Dock. Near the road and riverbanks, you'll find hedgehogs with Golden Apples on their backs. While they spawn any time, they usually appear between 4 PM and 7 PM in-game.

READ MORE: How to Find the Elite Vanguard Weapon in Crimson Desert

You can't simply pick the Apples off their backs. Instead, you'll have to shoot the hedgehog with an arrow. After the apple falls to the ground, equip your Mask and steal it from the hedgehog (yes, you'll need to steal it - those are the property of the hedgehog!).

A medieval fantasy game scene shows an armored archer aiming a glowing blue bow near a stone wall and lush greenery. Two figures stand in the background.
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Credit: Pearl Abyss

Each Golden Apple sells for 100 Silver. This is plenty, but to make it even better, craft them into Gold Bars, which will score you 500 Silver.

How To Turn Golden Apples Into Gold Bars

You'll need to unlock a recipe to be able to turn Golden Apples into Gold Bars. The recipe will be found in a Witch's Hideout in Pailune.

A video game scene shows a character in a fur cloak examining a glowing spot on the ground in a dark cave. Nearby are bookshelves and a desk with scattered papers. The atmosphere is mysterious and adventurous.
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Credit: Pearl Abyss

To get there, Fast Travel to the Abyss Nexus in Pailune's main road. Simply head down the main road and venture to the right side, near the cliffs. As you get closer to the cliff line, you'll see some stone stairs that lead you to the recipe. The recipe will require 1 Golden Apple and 3 Gold Ore to make a single Gold Bar.

After, you'll need to visit a Witch NPC - Elowen is typically the quickest. Interact with them and select "Craft Abyss Gears." From there, you'll be able to make Gold Bars from your Golden Apples!

RPG crafting screen showing a character in a red wizard outfit contemplating items. Gold bar highlighted for its value. Warm, rustic kitchen setting.
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Credit: Pearl Abyss

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