Cinnamon fried apples are a delightful treat that can warm up even the chilliest day. You know that cozy feeling when you walk into a kitchen filled with the sweet, spicy aroma of apples and cinnamon? It’s one of the best scents in the world! Whether you’re whipping them up for breakfast, a side dish, or a sweet dessert, these cinnamon fried apples are incredibly versatile and simple to make. Imagine soft, juicy apples bathed in brown and white sugars, all hugged by a warm cinnamon fragrance.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Not only do they taste delicious, but they also evoke feelings of nostalgia and comfort, making them perfect for sharing with family and friends. So, if you’re ready to embark on this tasty adventure, let’s gather our ingredients and create something fantastic together!
Why This Recipe Works
Flavor Harmony
The magic in cinnamon fried apples lies in the harmony of flavors. The mix of sweet brown sugar, white sugar, and warm cinnamon perfectly enhances the natural tartness of the apples. Each bite brings a deliciously balanced flavor profile that’s hard to resist. When you combine these ingredients, you’re ensuring that every apple slice bursts with sweetness and warmth.
Texture Transformation
One of the best parts about this recipe is how cooking the apples slowly transforms their texture. As they cook, they soften beautifully, yet retain just enough bite. This creates a delightful contrast between the tender fruit and the syrupy glaze that forms. When you take that first forkful, you’ll experience a wonderful mix of textures that is so satisfying.
Simplicity
Let’s not forget about the ease of this recipe! With just five ingredients, this cinnamon fried apples dish is quick and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a novice cook or have years of experience under your belt, anyone can make this recipe shine in their kitchen. You’ll appreciate how simple it is to bring these flavors together.
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Fried Apples
Versatile Delight
Cinnamon fried apples shine in any context. They are perfect as a side dish for savory meals or a tasty topping for breakfast foods. Imagine a scoop of these warm apples on top of your pancakes or waffles! You can also enjoy them on their own, maybe with a dollop of whipped cream. The options are endless, which makes them a fantastic addition to any meal.
Nostalgic Comfort
The warm, fragrant aroma of cinnamon and sugar cooking is more than just a pleasant smell; it’s a feeling of home. This recipe evokes feelings of comfort and warmth, making it an ideal dish to share with family and friends. Each bite takes you back to a time when such simple pleasures were cherished.
Customizable Options
One of the most exciting aspects of these cinnamon fried apples is how customizable they are. If you prefer a sweeter treat, feel free to adjust the sugar levels. Or if you want to spice things up a bit, add a pinch more cinnamon or try different spices. This flexibility ensures a unique dish every time you make it.
Ingredients
- 4 cups chopped apples
- Juice of 1 lemon (to prevent browning)
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup white sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Preparing the Apples
Peel and Core the Apples
Start by peeling and coring your apples. While doing this, make sure you squeeze lemon juice on them to prevent browning. Once peeled, chop the apples into bite-sized pieces. This should yield around 4 cups, depending on the size of the apples.
Melt the Butter
Next, take a high-sided pan or cast iron skillet and melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter over low heat. This will serve as the base for your sugary mixture, adding richness and flavor.
Mix the Sugars and Cinnamon
Once that butter is beautifully melted, add in ¼ cup packed brown sugar, ¼ cup white sugar, and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Stir frequently for about 2 minutes. You want the sugars to dissolve and blend seamlessly with the melted butter.
Add the Apples
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the chopped apples to the pan, making sure they’re well-coated with that delicious sugary cinnamon mixture. You’ll notice how the apples soak up that sweet goodness right away.
Cook the Apples
Continue to cook the apples on low-medium heat for about 12-14 minutes. Stir them occasionally to ensure they don’t stick and burn. The goal here is for the apples to soften, yet not become mushy. The exact cooking time may vary based on the size of your apple pieces, but just keep an eye on them.
Serving the Cinnamon Fried Apples
Once they are done cooking, serve them warm. These cinnamon fried apples can be a comforting side dish or a delightful dessert. They pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream or a scoop of yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
- Savory Meals: Serve alongside roasted pork or chicken for a nice savory-sweet contrast.
- Breakfast Treats: Use as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal for a delicious breakfast pick-me-up.
- Dessert Option: Pair with crusty bread or pastries for a simple yet satisfying dessert treat.
Tips for Success
- Apples Variety: Opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, to create complexity in flavor.
- Adjust Cinnamon: Don’t hesitate to adjust the amount of cinnamon to match your personal taste preference.
- Stir Occasionally: Stir the apples occasionally while cooking to promote even cooking and prevent burning.
Variations
- Add-ins: Toss in a handful of raisins or cranberries for an extra burst of sweetness and texture.
- Spice it Up: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or allspice for a different flavor twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Serve over gluten-free waffles or pancakes for a delightful gluten-free breakfast.
Pairing Ideas
- Dessert Classic: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert experience.
- Elegant Touch: Serve alongside a cheese platter or charcuterie board for an elevated snack.
- Warm Beverage: Enjoy with a cup of spiced tea or coffee for the perfect afternoon snack.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
A1: Yes! Mixing sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith adds depth to the flavor.
Q2: How long do the fried apples last in the fridge?
A2: They can last in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.
Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A3: Absolutely! Prepare them in advance and warm them up just before serving.
Q4: Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
A4: Yes, consider reducing the sugar or using honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness.
Q5: Can I freeze cinnamon fried apples?
A5: Yes, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw and reheat them before serving.
These cinnamon fried apples are more than just a dish; they’re an experience wrapped in warmth and nostalgia. The incredible combination of comforting, melt-in-your-mouth apples with rich flavors of cinnamon and sugar makes for an unforgettable treat. With straightforward ingredients and easy preparation, you can impress your loved ones while satisfying your cravings. So, give this recipe a try, and enjoy every delicious bite!
PrintCinnamon Fried Apples
Cinnamon Fried Apples are a cozy, delicious treat that’s simple to prepare. Soft apples coated in cinnamon and sugar evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth.
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 cups chopped apples
- Juice of 1 lemon (to prevent browning)
- 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 to prevent browning, and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Melt butter in a high-sided pan over low heat.
- Mix brown sugar, white sugar, and cinnamon into the melted butter and stir for 2 minutes.
- Add chopped apples and coat them in the sugary mixture.
- Cook the apples on low-medium heat for 12-14 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened but not mushy.
- Serve warm, optionally pairing with vanilla ice cream or yogurt.
Notes
Mix different apple varieties for a more complex flavor.
Adjust cinnamon to taste based on your preference.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 23
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Unsaturated Fat: 2
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 34
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 1
- Cholesterol: 10