These Cinnamon Fried Apples will melt in your mouth! Softened apples combined with a rich mixture of butter, sugar, and cinnamon create a delightful treat that can be served as a side dish or dessert. Perfect for cozy family dinners, holiday gatherings, or as a quick sweet fix, this recipe highlights the natural sweetness of apples while adding a warm spice that everyone loves.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare – With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
- Irresistible flavor – The combination of butter, sugar, and cinnamon transforms simple apples into an extraordinary treat.
- Versatile serving options – Enjoy these cinnamon fried apples warm as a dessert, or serve them alongside pancakes or ice cream for an elevated experience.
- Perfect for any occasion – Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a weeknight dinner, this recipe fits right in.
- Healthy indulgence – Packed with fiber from the apples, this dessert provides a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making these delicious cinnamon fried apples, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron skillet or high-sided pan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron skillet – Ideal for even heat distribution, ensuring your apples cook perfectly.
- Knife – A sharp knife makes peeling and chopping apples quick and safe.
- Cutting board – Provides a stable surface for cutting your ingredients efficiently.
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 lemon juice on them as you go to prevent browning.
- Chop into bite-sized pieces until you have 4 cups of fruit.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
- In a cast iron skillet or high-sided pan, melt 2 tablespoons salted butter over low heat.
- Once melted, add ¼ cup packed brown sugar, ¼ cup white sugar, and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Cook the mixture over low-medium heat for about 2 minutes.
- Stir frequently until everything is well combined and melted.
Step 4: Add the Apples
- Add the chopped apples to the pan.
- Continue to stir gently while cooking for about 12-14 minutes, until softened. Note that cooking time depends on the size of your apple pieces.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Serve your delicious cinnamon fried apples warm as a delightful dessert or side dish that everyone will love!
How to Serve Cinnamon Fried Apples
Cinnamon fried apples are a delightful treat that can enhance various meals or be enjoyed on their own. Here are some enticing ways to serve them.
As a Dessert Topping
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Spoon cinnamon fried apples over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a warm and cold contrast.
- Pancakes or Waffles: Use these apples as a topping for pancakes or waffles, adding a sweet and spiced flavor.
On Toast
- French Toast: Serve cinnamon fried apples atop French toast for a delicious breakfast option.
- Toast with Cream Cheese: Spread cream cheese on toasted bread and add the warm apples for a creamy, sweet bite.
With Breakfast Dishes
- Oatmeal: Stir in cinnamon fried apples into your morning oatmeal for added sweetness and flavor.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer these apples with yogurt and granola for a tasty parfait.
As a Side Dish
- With Pork Chops: These sweet apples pair excellently with savory pork chops, balancing the flavors perfectly.
- In Salads: Toss them into salads for an unexpected burst of sweetness.
How to Perfect Cinnamon Fried Apples
To make the best cinnamon fried apples, consider the following tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.
- Choose the Right Apples: Use firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow enough time for the apples to soften without burning; keep stirring frequently.
- Balance Sweetness: Adjust the brown sugar according to your taste preference; some might prefer less sweetness.
- Experiment with Spices: Try adding nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon for added depth of flavor.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your cinnamon fried apples warm right after cooking.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Fried Apples
Cinnamon fried apples can complement many dishes beautifully. Here are some excellent side dishes that pair well with this sweet treat.
- Grilled Chicken: The savory flavors of grilled chicken contrast nicely with the sweetness of cinnamon fried apples.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots to balance flavors.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that works well with sweet toppings.
- Pork Tenderloin: This dish is particularly enhanced by the addition of cinnamon fried apples, creating a delightful combination.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds freshness and texture that complements the warm apples.
- Cornbread Muffins: The subtle sweetness of cornbread muffins pairs wonderfully with cinnamon flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cinnamon Fried Apples can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using the wrong apple variety: Not all apples are suitable for frying. Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.
- Skipping lemon juice: Failing to juice lemon on the sliced apples can lead to browning. Always use lemon to keep your apples fresh.
- Overcooking the apples: Cooking them too long can turn mushy. Keep an eye on them and remove them from heat when they are just tender.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Too much sugar or cinnamon can overwhelm the dish. Use precise measurements for a balanced flavor.
- Using unsalted butter: This can change the taste profile of your dish. Stick with salted butter for that perfect contrast with the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Cinnamon Fried Apples
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Cinnamon Fried Apples
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Cinnamon Fried Apples that may help clarify your cooking process.
How do I make Cinnamon Fried Apples healthier?
You can reduce sugar or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup to make it healthier while keeping the flavor intact.
Can I use other spices with Cinnamon Fried Apples?
Yes! You can experiment with nutmeg or allspice for added depth and warmth in flavor.
What types of apples work best for Cinnamon Fried Apples?
Firm varieties such as Granny Smith, Fuji, and Honeycrisp hold up well during cooking and provide great flavor.
How should I serve Cinnamon Fried Apples?
They are delicious served warm, either alone or topped with ice cream, yogurt, or even pancakes!
Final Thoughts
These Cinnamon Fried Apples are not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. They make a delightful dessert or a cozy side dish. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or dried fruits for extra texture and flavor. Try this recipe today and enjoy its warm, sweet goodness!
Cinnamon Fried Apples
Indulge in the sweet warmth of Cinnamon Fried Apples, a delightful treat that effortlessly blends soft, buttery apples with rich cinnamon and sugar. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or whenever you crave a comforting dessert. With just five minutes of prep time, you can create a dish that not only highlights the natural sweetness of apples but also adds a warm spice that everyone will love. Serve these delicious cinnamon fried apples warm as a delectable dessert on their own or paired with ice cream, pancakes, or even yogurt for an elevated experience.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 19 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- 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
- Peel, core, and chop the apples into bite-sized pieces. Squeeze lemon juice over them to prevent browning.
- In a cast iron skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Add brown sugar, white sugar, and cinnamon; mix until well combined.
- Add the chopped apples to the skillet and stir gently. Cook for about 12-14 minutes until softened.
- Serve warm as a delightful dessert or side dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 218
- Sugar: 36g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
