Imagine the warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon and apples filling your kitchen as you prepare a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Skillet Fried Apples with Cinnamon bring the perfect balance of tartness, sweetness, and spice. Whether served as a side dish or dessert, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household. Let’s explore how to make this simple yet delightful treat and everything you need to know about it.

Why You’ll Love Skillet Fried Apples

Skillet fried apples are the epitome of comfort food. They’re incredibly versatile—you can serve them alongside savory dishes like pork chops or as a topping for ice cream or pancakes. The combination of tender apples and a sweet, buttery cinnamon glaze is irresistible. Plus, the recipe is simple, requiring just a few pantry staples and minimal effort.

Ingredients: What You Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe:

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose
Large Apples	6 (Granny Smith or Golden Delicious)	Provides the base flavor and texture
Brown Sugar (packed)	1/2 cup	Adds sweetness and caramel-like richness
Ground Cinnamon	1 tsp	Infuses warmth and spice
Ground Nutmeg	1/4 tsp	Enhances the depth of flavor
Unsalted Butter	1/4 cup (melted)	Adds richness and creates the sauce
Cornstarch	1 tbsp	Thickens the sauce
Lemon Juice	1 tbsp	Balances sweetness and prevents browning
Apple Juice or Cider	1/2 cup	Adds moisture and complements the apples
Salt	Pinch	Balances the sweetness

How to Make Skillet Fried Apples with Cinnamon

1. Prep Your Apples

Start by peeling, coring, and slicing six large apples. Granny Smith apples bring a tart contrast to the sweetness, while Golden Delicious offers a softer, sweeter flavor. Slice the apples uniformly for even cooking.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mixing these beforehand ensures even distribution of flavor.

3. Prepare the Sauce

In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, cornstarch, lemon juice, and apple juice or cider. The cornstarch acts as a thickening agent, creating a luscious glaze for the apples.

4. Cook the Apples

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced apples and sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture evenly over them. Stir gently to coat the apples.

5. Add the Sauce

Pour the butter mixture over the apples, ensuring all slices are well-coated. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the apples simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Check for Doneness

The apples are ready when they’re tender but still hold their shape. Avoid overcooking, as they can turn mushy.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the apples to a serving dish and drizzle any remaining sauce from the skillet over the top. Serve warm as a side dish, dessert, or even as a topping for oatmeal or waffles.

Tips for the Best Fried Apples

• Choose the Right Apples: Granny Smith apples hold their shape well and offer a tart contrast, while Golden Delicious are naturally sweet and tender.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the brown sugar by a tablespoon or two.
• Add Extra Spice: For a bolder flavor, add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger.
• Serve Immediately: These apples are best enjoyed warm, as the sauce thickens and the flavors shine when freshly cooked.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1/6 of recipe)
Calories	~170
Fat	5g
Carbohydrates	32g
Protein	1g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	25g

Serving Suggestions

• As a Side Dish: Pair with pork chops, roasted chicken, or baked ham for a savory-sweet balance.
• As a Dessert: Serve over vanilla ice cream, pound cake, or pancakes for a decadent treat.
• For Breakfast: Use as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt, or waffles to start your day on a sweet note.

FAQ: Common Questions About Skillet Fried Apples

1. Can I use different types of apples?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady. Each brings its own unique flavor and texture.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While skillet fried apples are best served fresh, you can prepare them a day ahead. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

3. How do I prevent the apples from browning?

Toss the apple slices in lemon juice immediately after slicing. This prevents oxidation and keeps them looking fresh.

4. Can I freeze skillet fried apples?

Yes, they freeze well! Allow the cooked apples to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. Reheat gently before serving.

5. What can I use instead of apple juice or cider?

You can substitute water or a splash of orange juice if you don’t have apple juice or cider on hand.

6. Are there vegan alternatives for this recipe?

Absolutely! Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter.

Conclusion: Time to Get Cooking!

Skillet Fried Apples with Cinnamon are more than just a recipe—they’re a tradition in the making. With their rich, comforting flavors and endless versatility, they’re sure to bring smiles to your table. So grab your skillet and a bag of apples, and create a dish that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious.

Experience the warm, comforting flavors of Skillet Fried Apples with Cinnamon. This classic recipe combines tender apple slices with a buttery cinnamon glaze, perfect as a side dish, dessert, or topping for your favorite breakfast treats. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, it’s a must-try for apple lovers.

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