Fried Apples Recipe

Introduction

Fried apples are a classic comfort food, perfect as a sweet side or a warm topping. This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness and soft texture of Jonathan apples with a touch of cinnamon and brown sugar.

A close-up view of a black cast iron pan holding soft cooked apple slices with a light yellow color, sprinkled evenly with fine brown cinnamon powder. The apples look tender and slightly shiny from syrup or juice, layered naturally on top of each other, filling the pan. On the right side inside the pan are three whole cinnamon sticks placed together. Part of a white and black checkered cloth is visible beneath the pan, all set on a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (57 grams, ½ stick)
  • 6 cups peeled and sliced Jonathan apples (678 grams, about 5 apples)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (25 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons light brown sugar (27 grams)
  • ½ lemon (juiced)
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (3 grams, optional)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large heavy skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
  2. Step 2: Add the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, salt, and cinnamon (if using) to the skillet. Cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes.
  3. Step 3: Carefully turn the apples with a spatula every 2 minutes to ensure even cooking. The apples should become tender but still hold their shape with a slight bite.

Tips & Variations

  • Use tart apples like Jonathan or Granny Smith for the best balance of sweetness and tang.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for a warm spice variation.
  • Serve warm over pancakes, oatmeal, or vanilla ice cream for a delicious treat.

Storage

Store leftover fried apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving to maintain softness.

How to Serve

The image shows a black cast iron pan filled with several thick slices of cooked apples, coated lightly with a golden sauce and speckled with brown cinnamon powder. The apple slices are soft with a slightly shiny texture, arranged loosely in the pan. Two cinnamon sticks rest on top of the apple slices near the front of the pan. A gold-colored spoon is partially inside the pan on the left side. The pan sits on a white cloth with a dark checkered line pattern, all placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes, you can use any firm apples, but tart varieties like Granny Smith or Jonathan work best because they hold their shape and balance the sweetness.

How do I prevent the apples from turning mushy?

Cook the apples over medium-low heat and turn them gently every couple of minutes. Removing the skillet from heat as soon as they’re tender but still firm helps keep the texture perfect.

Print

Fried Apples Recipe

Fried Apples are a warm, comforting side dish made with tender Jonathan apples cooked in butter and sweetened with a mix of granulated and brown sugar. Infused with a hint of lemon juice and cinnamon, this simple skillet recipe yields tender apples with a slight bite, perfect as a delightful accompaniment to breakfast or dessert.

  • Author: Clara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (57 grams, ½ stick)
  • 6 cups peeled and sliced Jonathan apples (678 grams, about 5 apples)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (25 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons light brown sugar (27 grams)
  • ½ lemon, juiced
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (3 grams, optional)

Instructions

  1. Melt Butter: In a large heavy skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium-low heat until fully melted and slightly bubbling.
  2. Add Ingredients: Add the peeled and sliced Jonathan apples, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, lemon juice, kosher salt, and ground cinnamon (if using) into the skillet.
  3. Cook Apples: Cook the apples uncovered over medium-low heat for 8 to 10 minutes, allowing the sugars to melt and the apples to soften.
  4. Turn Apples: Carefully turn the apples every 2 minutes using a spatula to ensure even cooking and caramelization on all sides.
  5. Check Tenderness: The apples should be tender but retain a slight bite and hold their shape. Remove from heat once desired texture is reached.

Notes

  • Use Jonathan apples or similar tart apples for best flavor and texture.
  • The lemon juice prevents the apples from browning too much and adds a bright flavor.
  • Adjust the cinnamon quantity or omit based on personal preference.
  • Serve warm as a side dish to breakfast items like pancakes or pork chops.
  • For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract after cooking.

Keywords: fried apples, skillet apples, cinnamon apples, apple side dish, easy apple recipe

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