A delicious fried apples recipe is perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to any meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert or a side dish to complement your favorite savory foods, this recipe for fried apples delivers the perfect blend of sweet and spice. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy the warm flavors of cinnamon and buttery apples in less than 30 minutes.
Table of contents
Fried Apples Recipe
Difficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes15
minutes150
kcalThis easy fried apples recipe makes a sweet and buttery side dish or dessert that’s full of comforting flavors. Perfect for fall or any time you crave something warm and delicious.
Ingredients
4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
2 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Pinch of salt
Directions
- Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- Melt the butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it begins to bubble.
- Cook the apples: Add the sliced apples to the skillet and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add seasonings: Sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), lemon juice, and salt over the apples. Stir well to coat the apples evenly.
- Simmer: Cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized.
- Serve warm: Enjoy as a side dish, dessert, or a topping for pancakes, waffles, or ice cream.
Notes
- You can prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it when needed.
- Leftover fried apples make an excellent topping for oatmeal or yogurt.
- Nutmeg is optional but adds depth to the flavor.
- The lemon juice helps prevent the apples from browning and enhances the flavors.
Tips for Better Fried Apples Recipe
- Choose the right apples: Use firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. These hold their shape better when cooked.
- Add some extra flavor: For a richer taste, include a splash of vanilla extract or a tablespoon of maple syrup.
- Balance the sweetness: Adjust the amount of brown sugar according to your preference. Less sugar for a more tart dish, or more for extra sweetness.
- Avoid overcooking: Keep an eye on the apples as they cook; you want them tender but not mushy.
- Serve with different dishes: Pair with pork chops, serve over pancakes, or enjoy as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
How to Store
Store any leftover fried apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for about 30 seconds. You can also freeze the fried apples for up to 2 months, but be aware that the texture may be slightly softer when reheated.
How to Serve
Fried apples can be served in many ways:
- As a warm side dish alongside pork chops, ham, or roasted chicken.
- On top of pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a sweet breakfast treat.
- As a dessert, paired with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Stirred into oatmeal or yogurt for a flavorful breakfast addition.
Variants
- Cranberry Fried Apples: Add dried cranberries for a touch of tartness.
- Spicy Fried Apples: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
- Caramel Fried Apples: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cooked apples before serving.
- Bourbon Fried Apples: Add a tablespoon of bourbon for a more grown-up version.
- Honey Fried Apples: Substitute brown sugar with honey for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Question
Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are best because they hold their shape when cooked.
Yes, fried apples can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
While fried apples are a sweet treat, you can adjust the amount of sugar to make them lighter. They provide fiber from the apples, but the recipe does contain butter and sugar.
Yes, fried apples can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in a skillet or microwave.
Fried apples pair well with pork chops, ham, or roasted meats, and can also be served over pancakes, waffles, or ice cream.
This fried apples recipe is an easy way to bring a comforting and nostalgic dish to your table. Whether you serve it as a side dish, a topping, or a dessert, the sweet, buttery, and spiced flavors are sure to please. With its simplicity and versatility, this recipe for fried apples is a must-try for any apple lover.