Cinnamon Fried Apples Recipe

If you’re searching for that irresistible, cozy comfort food that manages to be both simple and endlessly versatile, look no further than Cinnamon Fried Apples. This dish blends tender slices of apple with butter, brown sugar, and the warmest of spices, bringing a waft of nostalgia and homestyle goodness to your kitchen. Whether you pile them onto pancakes, tuck them beside savory mains, or sneak spoonfuls straight from the skillet (no judgment!), this treat is about to become a new favorite.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh apples, Cinnamon Fried Apples practically make themselves. Each component has a special role, adding depth, sweetness, a touch of tartness, or that irresistible syrupy finish.

• Apples: Go for 4 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are both fantastic); they bring tang, sweetness, and a satisfying bite that holds up well while cooking.
• Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons of rich, creamy butter coat the apples and form the luscious base of the sauce.
• Brown Sugar: With just ¼ cup, brown sugar provides caramel notes and a deep molasses flavor you’ll love.
• Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon of cinnamon brings the iconic warmth that defines Cinnamon Fried Apples.
• Ground Nutmeg: An extra ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg enhances the comfort factor with subtle earthy undertones.
• Pinch of Salt: That tiny pinch is key for balance, making all the other flavors pop.
• Lemon Juice: Just 1 teaspoon provides brightness and prevents the apples from browning as they cook.
• Cornstarch Slurry (Optional): For a glossy, thicker sauce, stir in 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water in the last few minutes.

How to Make Cinnamon Fried Apples

Step 1: Prep Those Apples

First, peel, core, and slice your apples into even wedges. Keeping your slices uniform helps them cook at the same rate, ensuring each forkful is perfectly tender. If you’re prepping ahead, toss your apple slices with a quick splash of lemon juice to keep them looking bright and fresh.

Step 2: Sauté in Butter

Set a large skillet over medium heat and add all that luscious butter. As soon as it’s melted and gently foaming, carefully add your apple slices. Stir and toss occasionally for 5 to 7 minutes until the apples are starting to soften around the edges, but still hold their shape.

Step 3: Add Your Sweet Spices

Now the magic happens: Sprinkle in the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and that splash of lemon juice. Stir everything together and let the apples simmer for another 5 to 8 minutes. The sugar will dissolve into the buttery juices, coating the apples in a glorious syrup while the spices perfume your whole kitchen.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

For Cinnamon Fried Apples with a rich, syrupy cling, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water and stir this slurry into the skillet during the last 2 minutes of cooking. This step is totally optional, but it makes the sauce especially spoonable for topping desserts or pancakes. Let it bubble and thicken before removing from the heat.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Serve your Cinnamon Fried Apples straight from the pan while warm for peak coziness. They’re irresistible right away or cooled slightly for a sticky-sweet treat later in the day.

How to Serve Cinnamon Fried Apples

Garnishes

Turn your Cinnamon Fried Apples into a showstopper with simple, flavorful garnishes. A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts into every crevice, a dollop of whipped cream adds lightness, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts gives a crunchy contrast. For a fresh twist, try chopped mint or a final dusting of cinnamon over the top.

Side Dishes

This recipe isn’t just limited to dessert. Spoon Cinnamon Fried Apples alongside pork chops, roasted chicken, or even breakfast sausage for a sweet-savory balance that always surprises and delights. Of course, they’re just as at home served next to waffles, pancakes, or oatmeal during a cozy brunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the usual: layer your spiced apples in a parfait with yogurt and granola, bake them into mini hand pies, or use them as a filling for crepes. Serve in individual ramekins for a rustic dinner party dessert, or pile them into a warm tart shell for fuss-free pie vibes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cinnamon Fried Apples store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making for a treat that just gets better by the spoonful. Be sure to cool completely before sealing to keep condensation at bay.

Freezing

If you’d like to stash some away for later, allow the apples to cool completely, then transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll freeze well for up to 2 months, ready to be revived for cozy desserts or quick breakfasts whenever the craving hits.

Reheating

Reheat Cinnamon Fried Apples gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. If you’re in a rush, a quick trip in the microwave (covered, in short bursts) works well, too. Add a tiny splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

What type Side Dish, Dessert

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or crisp-sweet varieties like Honeycrisp work wonders. They hold their shape while cooking and offer the right balance of sweet and tart for this dish.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the butter for your favorite plant-based alternative. Just keep an eye on the flavor, as some margarine substitutes have stronger tastes than others.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you love your apples extra saucy, stir in the optional cornstarch slurry toward the end of cooking. This thickens the juices into a luscious glaze that clings to every apple slice.

Can Cinnamon Fried Apples be made in advance?

Yes, they’re fantastic for prep! The cooked apples keep well in the fridge or freezer, so you can make a batch ahead for desserts, breakfast toppers, or quick side dishes anytime.

What can I use instead of brown sugar?

If you’re out of brown sugar, try coconut sugar or maple syrup for a slightly different sweetness and flavor profile. Plain white sugar will work in a pinch, but you’ll miss those caramel notes.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something soul-warming, quick, and endlessly adaptable, there’s just nothing like a skillet of Cinnamon Fried Apples. Give this recipe a try and see how easily it can become a staple in your kitchen, whether you serve it for breakfast, dessert, or any sweet moment in between!

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