These Cinnamon Fried Apples will melt in your mouth! Softened apples cooked in a buttery, sugary cinnamon mix create an irresistible treat. Perfect for dessert or as a warm side dish, this recipe highlights the natural sweetness of apples while adding a cozy twist. Ideal for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these fried apples are sure to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute dessert cravings.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these cinnamon fried apples on their own, over ice cream, or as a topping for pancakes and waffles.
- Irresistibly Flavorful: The combination of butter, sugar, and cinnamon creates a rich flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the apples.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual family dinner, these apples add warmth and comfort to any meal.
- Healthy Twist: Packed with fiber from the apples, this recipe allows you to enjoy a sweet treat without too much guilt.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here are the must-have items for preparing your cinnamon fried apples.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron skillet
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Mixing spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron skillet: Provides even heat distribution, ensuring that the apples cook perfectly without burning.
- Sharp knife: Makes peeling and chopping the apples quick and safe.
- Cutting board: Offers a sturdy surface to prepare your ingredients neatly.
Ingredients
For the Cinnamon Fried Apples
- 4 cups chopped apples
- 1 lemon (for juicing on the sliced apples)
- 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 lemon on them as you chop to prevent browning.
- Chop into bite-sized pieces until you have 4 cups.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Mix Sugars
- In a cast iron skillet or pan with high sides, melt butter over low heat.
- Add both sugars (brown sugar and white sugar) along with ground cinnamon.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Cook over low-medium heat for about 2 minutes while stirring frequently until everything is melted and combined.
Step 4: Cook the Apples
- Add the prepared apples to the skillet.
- Stir occasionally as they cook for about 12-14 minutes until softened. The cooking time may vary based on apple piece size.
Step 5: Serve Warm
- Once cooked to desired softness, serve your cinnamon fried apples warm. Enjoy them alone or as a delightful topping!
How to Serve Cinnamon Fried Apples
Cinnamon fried apples are versatile and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether as a dessert or paired with savory dishes, these sweet treats can elevate any meal.
As a Dessert
- Serve with vanilla ice cream – The warm cinnamon apples paired with cold ice cream create a perfect contrast in temperature and flavor.
- Top with whipped cream – A dollop of whipped cream adds a light texture that complements the richness of the fried apples.
On Pancakes or Waffles
- Add as a topping – Pour cinnamon fried apples over pancakes or waffles for an indulgent breakfast that feels like dessert.
- Drizzle maple syrup – Enhance the sweetness by drizzling maple syrup on top, making it an irresistible morning treat.
With Oatmeal
- Mix into oatmeal – Stir in cinnamon fried apples into your morning oatmeal for added flavor and a boost of nutrition.
- Sprinkle with nuts – Enhance texture by adding chopped nuts on top for a satisfying crunch.
Accompanied by Savory Dishes
- Pair with pork chops – The sweetness of the apples balances the savory flavors of pork, creating a delicious main course.
- Serve alongside roasted chicken – Cinnamon fried apples add a touch of sweetness to roasted chicken dishes, complementing their savory profile.
How to Perfect Cinnamon Fried Apples
To achieve the perfect cinnamon fried apples, follow these helpful tips. They will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
- Choose the right apples – Using tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp will balance well with the sweetness from sugar.
- Cut uniform sizes – Make sure your apple pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking and consistent softness.
- Don’t rush the cooking process – Cooking on low-medium heat allows the flavors to meld together beautifully without burning.
- Adjust spices to taste – Feel free to experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or allspice for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Fried Apples
Cinnamon fried apples pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some options to consider:
- Pork Tenderloin – This juicy meat complements the sweetness of cinnamon fried apples perfectly.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts balances out the sugary flavors beautifully.
- Savory Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed side that adds texture and nutrition alongside sweet apples.
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes – Creamy and sweet, mashed sweet potatoes make an excellent pairing with cinnamon flavors.
- Cheddar Biscuits – Flaky biscuits provide a savory contrast to sweetened apples.
- Green Bean Almondine – Crisp green beans topped with toasted almonds add freshness and crunch to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cinnamon Fried Apples can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can detract from their deliciousness. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Not using fresh apples: Fresh apples yield better flavor and texture. Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.
- Skipping the lemon juice: Lemon juice helps prevent browning. Always squeeze lemon on sliced apples to maintain their vibrant color.
- Overcooking the apples: Cooking them too long can turn them mushy. Keep an eye on the texture and aim for tender but not falling apart.
- Ignoring the butter temperature: Melting butter over low heat allows for even mixing with sugar and cinnamon. Avoid high heat, as it may burn the butter.
- Not adjusting sweetness: Everyone’s taste differs! Feel free to adjust the sugar amounts based on your preference for sweetness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Cinnamon Fried Apples
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They will last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Cinnamon Fried Apples
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until heated through.
- Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Cinnamon Fried Apples that may help you in your cooking journey.
How do I choose the best apples for Cinnamon Fried Apples?
Selecting firm apples like Granny Smith or Fuji ensures a great texture and flavor. Avoid soft varieties as they may become mushy during cooking.
Can I make Cinnamon Fried Apples ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them ahead and store them in the fridge. Just remember to reheat gently before serving for the best taste.
What can I serve with Cinnamon Fried Apples?
Cinnamon Fried Apples pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, pancakes, or even as a topping for oatmeal. Their versatility makes them a delightful addition to many dishes!
Are there any variations for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans, raisins, or even a splash of vanilla extract for added flavor.
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon Fried Apples are not only irresistible but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or side dish, they promise warmth and joy with every bite. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or spices!
Cinnamon Fried Apples
Cinnamon Fried Apples are a warm, delightful treat that will melt in your mouth! This quick and easy recipe features tender, buttery apples sautéed with a perfect blend of brown sugar and cinnamon, creating an irresistible dessert or side dish. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this cozy dish that highlights the natural sweetness of apples while adding a comforting twist. Whether served on their own, over ice cream, or as a topping for pancakes, these fried apples are sure to impress at any gathering or family dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups chopped apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup white sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Peel and core the apples. Squeeze lemon juice over them to prevent browning. Chop into bite-sized pieces.
- In a cast iron skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in both sugars and cinnamon until combined.
- Add the chopped apples to the skillet and cook over low-medium heat for 12-14 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened.
- Serve warm as a delightful dessert or topping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup (120g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
