Name: Fried Apples Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 tablespoons salted butter (85g); ¼ cup granulated sugar (50g); ¼ cup light brown sugar (50g); 2½ teaspoons ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon nutmeg; 4 large Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced

Imagine the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the sweet scent of caramelizing apples. That’s exactly what you’ll experience when you whip up this incredible Fried Apples recipe! It’s a simple, comforting dish that transforms ordinary apples into a mouthwatering treat. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend mornings, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and about 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious side dish or dessert ready to go.
Versatile: These fried apples are perfect as a standalone treat, a topping for ice cream, or even as a filling for pies and tarts.
Customizable: Adjust the cooking time to achieve your preferred apple texture, from crisp-tender to melt-in-your-mouth soft.
Comforting: The warm spices and sweet apples create a cozy, comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Butter: The base of our delicious sauce, adding richness and flavor.
Granulated Sugar: For sweetness and to help create that irresistible caramel-like coating.
Light Brown Sugar: Adds depth and a hint of molasses flavor.
Cinnamon: The quintessential apple spice, providing warmth and aroma.
Nutmeg: A pinch for that extra layer of flavor complexity.
Granny Smith Apples: Tart and firm, they hold up well during cooking and balance the sweetness.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Apple Variety: Try using a mix of apple varieties for different flavors and textures.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of allspice or cardamom for an extra flavor kick.
Nutty Twist: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
Boozy Version: Splash in a bit of bourbon or rum for an adult twist.

How to Make Fried Apples

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Melt the butter in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add both sugars, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until the sugar is moistened and cook until the mixture is bubbling, about 2 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Apples

Toss in your peeled, cored, and sliced apples. Give everything a good stir to ensure the apples are well-coated with the buttery, spiced mixture.

Step 3: Cook to Perfection

Cook the apples, stirring frequently, until they reach your desired tenderness. For crisp-tender apples, aim for 6-10 minutes. If you prefer them softer, continue cooking for about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once your apples are cooked to perfection, serve them immediately while they’re still warm and fragrant.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Apple Selection: Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for the best texture and flavor balance.
Even Slices: Try to slice your apples uniformly to ensure even cooking.
Watch the Heat: Keep an eye on your skillet and adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
Taste Test: Sample an apple slice towards the end of cooking to check for doneness and sweetness.

How to Serve

These fried apples are incredibly versatile. Here are some serving suggestions:

Spoon them over vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Serve alongside roasted pork for a sweet and savory combination.
Use as a topping for pancakes or waffles at breakfast.
Mix into your morning oatmeal for a flavorful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled fried apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze fried apples for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness and firm texture, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Pink Lady. Each will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.

How can I make this recipe healthier?
To reduce the sugar content, you can cut back on the amount of sugar used or substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You could also use coconut oil instead of butter for a different flavor profile and potential health benefits.

Can I make this recipe in advance for a party?
Yes! You can prepare the fried apples a day in advance and reheat them gently before serving. They may soften a bit more upon reheating, but they’ll still be delicious.

What if my sauce is too thin?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry (½ teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to the skillet and cook for an additional minute or two until the sauce thickens.

There you have it – a simple yet irresistible Fried Apples recipe that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert, a unique breakfast topping, or a comforting snack, these fried apples fit the bill perfectly. So grab those apples, fire up your skillet, and get ready to fill your home with the most delightful aromas. Happy cooking!