Fruiting trees tend not to be "foolproof" in any sense of the word :-) In fact, they tend to require quite a bit more attention to thrive and produce well than most ornamental trees - spraying for disease and insect control, regular pruning to encourage fruiting, understanding cross pollination, fertilizing (especially if grown in containers), etc. And there are many varieties that are more suited to specific climate conditions than others. Getting general recommendations from a global forum is probably not going to produce very good results :-) Even viewing selections available from a large mail order supplier may not provide what you need.

I'd inquire with your local extension office for a listing of varieties most suited to your local growing conditions based on chill dates and heat requirements. They should also be able to advise on what varieties need a second selection to assure proper pollination. And most fruiting trees are available grafted on dwarfing root stock and some, like peaches and apricots, tend to be pretty small trees regardless.

Crab apple?

Yes, that is why I quoted 'Foolproof'. I know gardening and growing is anything but. However, it does seem when I pour through tree magazines, some varieties are considered more hardy than others. More resistant to this or that..... I can identify recommended zones based on description and then research if any particular one might work. But there are countless varieties so I wondered if people had their favorite and for what reasons.

Never mind... taking this to the fruit and orchard section. I hadn't seen that before. I think folks there will be able to offer recommendations.