Cinnamon Butter Fried Apples

This sweet and tender Southern Fried Apples recipe transforms ordinary apples into a mouthwatering dessert or side dish in just minutes. The apples caramelize in a buttery cinnamon sauce, creating a simple yet irresistible treat that pairs beautifully with everything from ice cream to pork chops.

I first made these fried apples when my mother-in-law was visiting and wanted something sweet but not too heavy after dinner. The kitchen filled with the most incredible aroma, and everyone asked for seconds. Now it's our go-to comfort food on chilly evenings.

Ingredients

• Butter: Creates the rich, velvety base for the sauce. Use unsalted so you can control the flavor profile.
• Granulated sugar: Caramelizes beautifully and creates that signature southern syrup. You can adjust slightly based on your sweetness preference.
• Ground cinnamon: Brings warm spice that complements the apples perfectly. Fresh, high-quality cinnamon makes a noticeable difference in the final flavor.
• Granny Smith apples: Offer the perfect tartness to balance the sweet sauce. Their firm texture holds up well during cooking without turning mushy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the apples:

Peeling, coring, and slicing the apples uniformly is crucial for even cooking. Aim for slices about 1/4 inch thick; they should be thin enough to soften quickly but thick enough to maintain some texture. A sharp knife makes this job much easier and safer.

Create the cinnamon butter base:

Melt the butter slowly over medium heat, being careful not to brown it. When fully melted, add the sugar and cinnamon, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and the sugar completely dissolves, about 2 minutes. The mixture should bubble slightly but not vigorously—this gentle approach prevents burning.

Cook the apples to perfection:

Add your prepared apple slices to the skillet, gently folding them into the cinnamon butter mixture until fully coated. Allow them to cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes, then gently stir. Continue cooking for another 3 to 6 minutes depending on how soft you prefer your apples. For slightly firmer texture with some bite, aim for the shorter time; for more tender, melt-in-your-mouth apples, cook the full 8 minutes.

Serve immediately:

These fried apples are at their absolute best when served warm right from the skillet. The sauce will be perfectly silky, and the apples will have that ideal tender texture. If you must wait, cover to keep warm, but try to serve within 15 minutes of cooking.

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My absolute favorite way to enjoy these apples is spooned warm over vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the cold, creamy ice cream and the warm cinnamon apples creates a dessert that rivals any fancy restaurant offering. My husband actually proposed to me after I made him this simple dessert on our third date, proving sometimes the simplest recipes carry the most meaning.

Perfect Apple Selection

Granny Smith apples are my go-to for this recipe because their tartness creates the perfect balance with the sweet sauce. However, this recipe works beautifully with other firm apple varieties as well. Honeycrisp apples offer a naturally sweeter option while maintaining that essential crispness. Braeburn and Pink Lady varieties also hold up well during cooking. Avoid softer varieties like McIntosh or Red Delicious as they break down too quickly and turn mushy. The ideal apple should feel firm and heavy for its size, with no soft spots.

Make It Your Own

This classic recipe serves as a wonderful foundation for creative variations. Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries during the last two minutes of cooking for bursts of chewy sweetness. A splash of bourbon or rum added just before the apples finish cooking creates a sophisticated flavor profile perfect for adult gatherings. For textural contrast, sprinkle with chopped toasted pecans or walnuts just before serving. If you enjoy warming spices, try adding a pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or cardamom alongside the cinnamon.

Serving Suggestions

These Southern Fried Apples transcend the boundaries between dessert and savory accompaniment. For breakfast, serve them atop buttermilk pancakes, French toast, or stirred into oatmeal. As a dessert, they make an incredible topping for vanilla ice cream, pound cake, or bread pudding. Perhaps most surprisingly, they excel as a side dish, particularly with pork dishes like chops or tenderloin, where the sweet tartness complements the savory meat perfectly. For an elegant presentation, serve in small ramekins topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

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This easy yet elegant recipe is destined to become a staple in your repertoire. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors it brings to your table!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of apples work best for Southern fried apples?

Granny Smith apples are ideal because their tartness balances the sweet butter-sugar mixture, and they hold their shape when cooked. However, you can also use Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Pink Lady apples for good results.

→ Can I make Southern fried apples ahead of time?

Yes! They reheat beautifully. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

→ How do you serve Southern fried apples?

They're incredibly versatile! Serve as a side dish with pork chops or ham, as a topping for pancakes or waffles, mixed into oatmeal, or as a dessert with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

→ How thick should I slice the apples?

Aim for slices about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Too thin and they'll break down too much; too thick and they won't cook through properly in the suggested time.

→ Can I add other spices to Southern fried apples?

Absolutely! While cinnamon is traditional, you can add a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or cloves for more complexity. A splash of vanilla extract or bourbon at the end of cooking also adds wonderful flavor.

→ Are Southern fried apples a dessert or a side dish?

They're wonderfully versatile! In Southern cuisine, they're commonly served as a side dish with savory meals, particularly with pork. However, they also make a delicious dessert, especially when topped with ice cream or whipped cream.