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Fried Apples with Cinnamon and Nutmeg Recipe

4.7 from 77 reviews

Delicious and easy-to-make fried apples featuring tender Granny Smith apple wedges cooked in butter, brown sugar, and warm spices, perfect as a comforting side dish or dessert topping.

Ingredients

Scale

Apples

  • 5 Granny Smith apples

Cooking Ingredients

  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ cup light brown sugar (or dark brown sugar, packed)
  • 1½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and slice the Granny Smith apples into wedges approximately ½ inch thick to ensure even cooking and maintain the texture.
  2. Melt the butter: Place a large cast iron skillet over medium heat and melt 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter until fully liquefied and hot.
  3. Add apples and spices: Add the sliced apples, ½ cup packed brown sugar, 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon fine sea salt to the skillet. Stir well to thoroughly coat the apple slices in the butter and spice mixture.
  4. Cook the apples: Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 15 minutes. Cook until the apples become tender yet still retain their shape, ensuring they do not turn mushy.
  5. Finish with vanilla: Remove the skillet from heat and gently stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Serve the fried apples immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use Granny Smith apples for their tartness and firm texture which holds up well during cooking.
  • Adjust the brown sugar quantity to taste if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet dish.
  • This recipe pairs wonderfully as a topping for pancakes, oatmeal, or ice cream.
  • For a richer flavor, you can substitute some of the butter with a splash of heavy cream added at the end.
  • If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top before serving for added crunch.

Keywords: fried apples, sautéed apples, cinnamon apples, spiced apple side dish, fall recipe, easy dessert topping