Fried Apples
Tender, sweet apples sautéed in butter with warm cinnamon and brown sugar until perfectly caramelized. A classic Southern side dish that's equally delicious for breakfast or dessert, ready in under 20 minutes.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Prepare the apples
- a.Peel (if desired), core, and slice the apples into uniform 1/4-inch thick wedges. Place them in a bowl and toss with the lemon juice to prevent browning.
- 2
Sauté the apples
- a.In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until they just begin to soften.
- 3
Add sugar and spices
- a.In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apples and stir gently to coat.
- 4
Create the glaze
- a.Pour the water or apple cider into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for another 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened into a syrupy glaze.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Serve. Remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the fried apples warm as a side dish or as a topping for your favorite breakfast or dessert.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn as they hold their shape well during cooking.
- 2For a deeper, richer flavor, substitute the water with apple cider.
- 3Ensure apples are sliced uniformly (about 1/4-inch thick) so they cook evenly.
- 4Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the apples to steam instead of sauté. Cook in batches if necessary.
- 5For an extra thick sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with the 2 tablespoons of water before adding it to the skillet.
- 6Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Adapt it for your goals.
Bourbon Infused
Add a tablespoon of bourbon or dark rum during the last 2 minutes of cooking for a rich, warm flavor.
Nutty CrunchNutty Crunch
Stir in 1/4 cup of toasted pecans or walnuts at the end for added texture.
Alternative SweetenersAlternative Sweeteners
Replace the brown sugar with an equal amount of maple syrup or a few tablespoons of honey for a different flavor profile.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add a pinch of ground ginger or a tiny dash of cayenne pepper along with the cinnamon for a gentle, warming heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Source of Dietary Fiber
Apples are a good source of dietary fiber, particularly pectin, which is beneficial for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness.
Rich in Antioxidants
Apples contain various antioxidants, such as quercetin and other flavonoids, which help combat oxidative stress in the body.
Warming Spices
Cinnamon, a key ingredient, is known for its warming properties and contains compounds that may have anti-inflammatory benefits.
Frequently asked questions
Firm, crisp apples that hold their shape are best. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, Gala, and Jonagold are all excellent choices. Avoid softer apples like Red Delicious, which can turn mushy.