These Cinnamon Fried Apples are a delightful treat that will melt in your mouth! Softened apples coated in a rich mixture of butter, sugar, and cinnamon create an irresistible flavor combination. Perfect for a cozy dessert or as a warm side dish, these apples are versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, their sweet aroma and comforting taste will surely impress anyone who tries them.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy days or unexpected guests.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, sugar, and butter creates a warm, inviting taste that enhances the natural sweetness of the apples.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these cinnamon fried apples on their own or pair them with ice cream, pancakes, or waffles for an extra special treat.
- Perfect Fall Dish: With the warm spices and cozy flavors, this recipe captures the essence of fall and can easily become a seasonal favorite.
- Healthy Dessert Alternative: Made with fresh apples and minimal added sugar, this dish offers a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Tools and Preparation
To make these delicious cinnamon fried apples, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will help ensure your cooking process is smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron skillet or high-sided pan
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron skillet: Ideal for even heat distribution, which helps caramelize the sugar perfectly for rich flavor.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping apples safely and efficiently.
- Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurements for consistent results each time you make cinnamon fried apples.
Ingredients
These are the key ingredients you’ll need to prepare your delicious cinnamon fried apples:
For the Apples
- 4 cups chopped apples
- 1 lemon (for juicing on the sliced apples)
For the Mixture
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup white sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
How to Make Cinnamon Fried Apples
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
- Peel and core the apples.
- Squeeze juice from the lemon over them as you chop to prevent browning.
- Chop into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Melt the Butter Mixture
- In a cast iron skillet or high-sided pan, melt butter over low heat.
- Add brown sugar, white sugar, and cinnamon.
- Cook over low-medium heat for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently until melted.
Step 3: Cook the Apples
- Add the prepared apples to the pan.
- Stir well to coat them evenly.
- Continue to cook for about 12-14 minutes until softened, adjusting time based on apple piece size.
Step 4: Serve Warm
- Remove from heat and serve your delicious Cinnamon Fried Apples warm.
- Enjoy them alone or pair with ice cream for an extra sweet touch!
How to Serve Cinnamon Fried Apples
Cinnamon fried apples are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving them as a dessert or a delightful side, here are some creative ideas to elevate your experience.
On Top of Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm cinnamon fried apples, creating a delicious contrast of temperatures and flavors.
With Pancakes or Waffles
- Serve these apples as a topping for pancakes or waffles. They add a sweet, fruity twist that makes breakfast feel special.
As a Topping for Oatmeal
- Add cinnamon fried apples to your morning oatmeal for an extra burst of flavor and texture. The sweetness complements the hearty oats perfectly.
In a Crepe
- Fill a crepe with warm cinnamon fried apples and a drizzle of caramel sauce for an elegant dessert that impresses.
As a Side Dish with Pork
- Serve cinnamon fried apples alongside roasted pork chops. The sweetness cuts through the savory meat, making it a perfect pairing.
With Toast
- Spread cream cheese on toast and top it with cinnamon fried apples for an easy yet delicious snack or breakfast option.
How to Perfect Cinnamon Fried Apples
To make sure your cinnamon fried apples turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose the right apples: Sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp work well, but tart apples like Granny Smith add great flavor too.
- Cut uniform pieces: Chop the apples into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. This will prevent some pieces from becoming mushy while others remain firm.
- Adjust sweetness: Depending on your preference, you can increase or decrease the amount of sugar used in the recipe.
- Experiment with spices: Adding nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon can give your dish additional warmth and complexity.
- Serve immediately: These apples taste best when served warm, so enjoy them fresh off the stove for maximum flavor.
- Store properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Fried Apples
Cinnamon fried apples can shine even brighter when paired with the right side dishes. Here are some options to consider:
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness harmonizes well with cinnamon flavors.
- Grilled Chicken: The savory notes of grilled chicken provide a nice contrast to the sweet apples.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with vegetables balances out the richness of cinnamon fried apples.
- Sautéed Greens: Serve sautéed spinach or kale on the side for a nutritious addition and color contrast.
- Baked Ham: The sweet and salty combination of baked ham enhances the overall meal experience.
- Buttermilk Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits serve as a perfect base for topping with cinnamon fried apples and cream.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making cinnamon fried apples can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Not using the right apples: Choosing the wrong variety can affect flavor and texture. Opt for sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp for the best results.
- Skipping the lemon juice: Forgetting to squeeze lemon on the apples can lead to browning. Always juice your apples immediately after chopping to maintain their color.
- Overcooking the apples: Cooking them too long can turn them mushy. Keep an eye on the cooking time and test for softness around the 12-minute mark.
- Ignoring the butter temperature: Melting butter over high heat can burn it. Always melt your butter over low heat for a perfect blend with sugar and cinnamon.
- Not adjusting sweetness: Everyone’s taste is different. Start with less sugar and add more as needed, ensuring a balanced flavor that suits your preference.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the cinnamon fried apples to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Cinnamon Fried Apples
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
- Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.
Reheating Cinnamon Fried Apples
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread apples in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about cinnamon fried apples, here are some common questions answered.
What are Cinnamon Fried Apples?
Cinnamon fried apples are sautéed apple slices cooked in butter, sugar, and cinnamon until soft and caramelized. They make a delightful dessert or side dish.
How do I make Cinnamon Fried Apples sweeter?
To enhance sweetness, consider adding more brown sugar or even maple syrup during cooking. Adjust according to your taste preference!
Can I use other spices in Cinnamon Fried Apples?
Yes! Feel free to experiment by adding nutmeg or allspice for a different flavor profile that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
Are Cinnamon Fried Apples healthy?
While they do contain sugars, they also provide fiber and vitamins from the apples. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon fried apples are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! Whether served warm as a dessert or alongside savory dishes, this recipe offers endless customization options. Try adding nuts or serving with ice cream for an extra treat!
Cinnamon Fried Apples
Cinnamon Fried Apples are a warm, comforting dessert that will melt in your mouth. This delightful recipe features tender sautéed apples coated in a rich blend of butter, brown sugar, and fragrant cinnamon. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this irresistible treat that’s perfect for cozy family gatherings or a special weeknight indulgence. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with ice cream, pancakes, or waffles, these cinnamon fried apples are sure to impress everyone at the table. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, this dish captures the essence of fall and offers a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet cravings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups chopped apples
- 1 lemon (for juicing)
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup white sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the apples by peeling, coring, and chopping them into bite-sized pieces. Squeeze lemon juice over the apples to prevent browning.
- In a cast iron skillet over low heat, melt the butter. Add brown sugar, white sugar, and cinnamon; stir until combined and melted.
- Add the chopped apples to the skillet and stir to coat evenly. Cook for about 12-14 minutes or until softened.
- Serve warm as a delicious dessert or side dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
