If you have a craving for something sweet, cozy, and bursting with warm flavors, this Cinnamon Fried Apples Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful treat where tender, juicy apples get caramelized in a buttery cinnamon-sugar glaze, filling your kitchen with the most inviting aroma. Whether you want a comforting snack, a topping for your breakfast, or an easy dessert, this recipe hits every note perfectly. Trust me, once you try these cinnamon fried apples, they’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these cinnamon fried apples just right is all about using simple, everyday ingredients that work in harmony. Each one brings out the best in the apples, creating a mouthwatering balance between sweet, tangy, and buttery flavors along with that irresistible cinnamon warmth.
- 4 cups chopped apples: Choose crisp apples like Gala or Honeycrisp for the perfect texture and sweetness.
- 1 lemon (for juicing): A squeeze of fresh lemon juice keeps the apples bright and prevents browning.
- 2 tablespoons salted butter: Adds richness and helps create a luscious glaze.
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar: For deep caramel notes and a touch of molasses flavor.
- ¼ cup white sugar: Balances out the brown sugar for a well-rounded sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: This classic spice brings warmth and a signature flavor that defines the dish.
How to Make Cinnamon Fried Apples Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Apples
Start by peeling and coring your apples to get rid of any bitterness from the skin and the tough core. Then, chop them into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly. Don’t forget to squeeze fresh lemon juice on the slices; this little trick keeps the apples from turning brown and adds a subtle tang that brightens the entire dish.
Step 2: Create the Cinnamon Sugar Base
In a pan over low heat, melt the salted butter gently to create that rich, creamy base. Once melted, add both the brown sugar and white sugar along with the ground cinnamon. Stir everything until the sugars dissolve and you see a beautiful caramel-like syrup forming. This mixture will coat your apples perfectly, giving them that signature glaze.
Step 3: Cook the Apples
Now, add the chopped apples into your pan with the cinnamon sugar syrup. Stir them so each apple piece is enveloped in that luscious buttery cinnamon mix. Let them cook gently for 12-14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften but still hold their shape—soft, not mushy. That perfect balance makes all the difference!
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once your apples are tender and beautifully glazed, serve them warm right from the pan. The aroma alone is enough to make anyone’s mouth water!
How to Serve Cinnamon Fried Apples Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top or add a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla yogurt for a creamy contrast. Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can bring a wonderful crunch and an extra layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the soft apples.
Side Dishes
Cinnamon fried apples are incredibly versatile. They shine as a topping on pancakes or waffles, or serve them alongside oatmeal or creamy porridge to elevate your breakfast game. You can also spoon them over vanilla ice cream or pound cake for a simple yet spectacular dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the apples in small ramekins or mason jars, layering with granola and yogurt. Another fun idea is to stuff warm cinnamon fried apples into freshly baked crepes or use them as a filling for cinnamon rolls to surprise your family with a seasonal twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. The apples may soften a bit more, but the flavors will deepen, making them just as tasty when reheated.
Freezing
You can freeze cinnamon fried apples by first letting them cool completely, then transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags. They keep well for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To warm up your cinnamon fried apples, simply heat them in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, stirring gently. You can also microwave them in short bursts, stirring in between, to avoid overcooking. They’re best enjoyed warm to get that cozy comfort!
FAQs
Can I use frozen apples for this Cinnamon Fried Apples Recipe?
While fresh apples yield the best texture, you can use frozen apples if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before cooking, so your cinnamon sugar glaze doesn’t become too watery.
What type of apples works best for frying?
Firm and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work wonderfully. They hold their shape during cooking and provide a nice balance to the sweetness of the sugars and cinnamon.
Can I make this recipe sugar-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the brown and white sugar with natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or a sugar alternative of your choice. Adjust amounts to taste since liquid sweeteners may affect cooking time slightly.
Is this dish suitable for a vegan diet?
To make the Cinnamon Fried Apples Recipe vegan, swap the salted butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.
How can I make the apples more tender without losing their shape?
Cooking the apples slowly over low heat ensures they soften evenly without turning mushy. Stir gently and avoid cooking too long, aiming for tender apples that still hold their bite.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Fried Apples Recipe is a fantastic way to celebrate the warmth and comfort of simple ingredients transformed into a truly special dish. Whether it’s a cozy weekday treat or a festive addition to your holiday table, these apples never fail to bring smiles and happy taste buds. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy apples!
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Cinnamon Fried Apples Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Fried Apples recipe offers a warm, comforting treat with tender, juicy apples cooked in a buttery cinnamon sugar glaze. Perfect as a simple dessert or a sweet side dish, these apples bring cozy fall flavors to your table with minimal effort and just a few ingredients.
Ingredients
Apples
- 4 cups chopped apples (peeled and cored)
- 1 lemon (juiced)
Cooking Mixture
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup white sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel and core the apples, then chop them into bite-sized pieces. Immediately squeeze the lemon juice over the chopped apples to prevent them from browning and set aside.
- Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: In a pan over low heat, melt the butter. Add both brown sugar and white sugar along with the ground cinnamon, stirring continuously until the sugars have melted and combined into a smooth glaze.
- Cook the Apples: Add the chopped apples into the pan with the cinnamon sugar glaze. Stir well to coat all apple pieces. Cook for about 12 to 14 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften and become tender but still hold their shape.
- Serve Warm: Once cooked, remove the pan from heat. Serve the warm cinnamon fried apples immediately, enjoying their sweet, spiced flavor as a dessert or side dish.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced flavor.
- You can adjust the amount of sugar based on your sweetness preference.
- For extra richness, try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg.
- Serve over pancakes, waffles, or ice cream for a delicious treat.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently on the stovetop.
