Fried Apples
There’s something truly special about the first bite of Fried Apples. Growing up, my grandmother would whip up a batch whenever the air turned crisp and the leaves began to fall. The sweet aroma would envelop our home, creating a warm ambiance that felt like a big hug. I remember sitting at the kitchen table, eagerly waiting with my family, as she showcased her apple-peeling skills with rhythmic precision. Each slice of the apples was perfectly coated with buttery goodness, and it was the kind of comfort food that made everything feel just right. The best part? Watching the apples turn golden and caramelized in the skillet — it’s a sight that still brings a smile to my face.
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
20 mins
10 mins
Medium
180 kcal
1 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
8 g
Skillet, Large Pot, Saucepan, Mixing Bowl, Peeler, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon
Why Try This Fried Apples
Sweetness that Warms the Heart
The first reason I absolutely adore Fried Apples is their incredible sweetness. The natural sugars in the apples caramelize beautifully when cooked in butter, creating a luscious sauce that feels like a warm embrace from the inside out.
Versatile and Adaptable
One of the things I love most about this dish is its versatility. Whether you serve it as a side dish for breakfast or as a dessert topped with ice cream, it’s always a hit. You can even adjust the sweetness to your liking, making it perfect for any palate.
A Nostalgic Journey
This recipe isn’t just about flavors; it’s a journey through memories. Each time I make Fried Apples, I’m transported back to my childhood, surrounded by family laughter and the warmth of home. It’s a reminder of the little things that bring us joy.
Quick and Easy to Prepare
With just a handful of ingredients, Fried Apples are incredibly easy to prepare. In a matter of minutes, you can have a delicious dish that impresses everyone. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Healthier Indulgence
Unlike many desserts, Fried Apples can be a healthier option when you use less sugar or substitute with natural sweeteners. They provide essential vitamins and fiber, making them a tasty yet nourishing choice for your meal.
Everything You Need for Fried Apples

The ingredients for Fried Apples are simple yet brilliant in their combination. The star of the show, of course, is the apples. Using a variety like Pippin adds a delightful tartness that balances the sweetness perfectly. The butter adds richness, while the sugar and cinnamon elevate the flavors, creating a warm, cozy dish that’s perfect for any season. Let’s dive into the key players of this recipe!
- 5 large Pippin apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced) – These apples are the essence of this dish, providing a natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
- 1 large lemon (about ¼ cup juice) – The lemon juice brightens the flavor and prevents the apples from browning.
- ½ cup salted butter (1 stick or 113 grams) – This adds richness and creates a silky sauce for the apples.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – This sweetens the dish and helps achieve that beautiful caramelization.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – A warm spice that complements the apples perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – This helps thicken the sauce, creating a luscious coating for the apples.
Fried Apples Instructions

Making Fried Apples is a true joy, and the steps are quite straightforward. You’ll find that each step builds upon the last to create a harmonious dish. Let me guide you through the process!
- Start by peeling, coring, and thinly slicing the apples. As you do this, toss them into a bowl and sprinkle the juice of the lemon over them. This will keep the apples vibrant and fresh.
- Next, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure it’s bubbling but not burning; you want to create a rich base for your dish.
- Once the butter is melted, add the sliced apples to the skillet. Sauté them over medium-high heat for about five minutes. You’ll notice them starting to soften and release their juices, which is a wonderful smell!
- Now it’s time to sprinkle the sugar and cinnamon over the apples. Stir gently to coat them evenly, and continue cooking until the mixture starts bubbling, and the sugar has dissolved into the butter.
- Next, add the flour over the apples. Stir this in well to combine; this will help thicken the sauce and create a luscious coating.
- Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for a few more minutes. This is when the magic happens, and the sauce thickens beautifully.
- After simmering, give it one last stir, ensuring everything is well-coated. The apples should be tender and glistening in their sweet sauce.
- Serve your Fried Apples immediately! They are divine on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Things Worth Knowing
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow the apples to cook slowly enough to develop their flavors and achieve a nice caramelization.
- Choose the Right Apples: Opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples for a complex flavor profile.
- Don’t Skip the Lemon: The lemon juice not only adds brightness but also prevents browning.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of sugar based on the tartness of your apples.
Ways to Customize

There are endless ways to personalize your Fried Apples. Here are some exciting ideas to consider:
- Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch and a nutty flavor.
- Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or allspice for a unique twist.
- Make It Even Sweeter: Drizzle some maple syrup or honey over the top before serving.
- Pair with Ice Cream: Serve warm Fried Apples over vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
- Change the Fruit: Try using pears or peaches for a different flavor experience.
- Serve with Pancakes: Use them as a topping for pancakes or waffles for a delicious breakfast.
How to Enjoy Fried Apples
Serving Fried Apples can be as simple or as elaborate as you’d like. Here are some ideas to elevate your dish:
- Breakfast Delight: Top your morning pancakes or waffles with warm Fried Apples for a sweet start to the day.
- Comforting Dessert: Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a cozy dessert.
- Seasonal Treat: Perfect for fall gatherings, Fried Apples make an excellent addition to your holiday table.
- Snack Time: Enjoy them as a sweet afternoon snack straight from the skillet!
- Pair with Savory Dishes: They complement savory dishes like pork or grilled chicken, balancing flavors beautifully.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Fried Apples are a heartwarming dish that brings back wonderful memories and flavors. Their delightful sweetness and ease of preparation make them a must-try for anyone. I encourage you to whip up a batch and savor the comforting flavors that will surely brighten your day!

Fried Apples
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by peeling, coring, and thinly slicing the apples. As you do this, toss them into a bowl and sprinkle the juice of the lemon over them. This will keep the apples vibrant and fresh.
- Next, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure it’s bubbling but not burning; you want to create a rich base for your dish.
- Once the butter is melted, add the sliced apples to the skillet. Sauté them over medium-high heat for about five minutes. You’ll notice them starting to soften and release their juices, which is a wonderful smell!
- Now it’s time to sprinkle the sugar and cinnamon over the apples. Stir gently to coat them evenly, and continue cooking until the mixture starts bubbling, and the sugar has dissolved into the butter.
- Next, add the flour over the apples. Stir this in well to combine; this will help thicken the sauce and create a luscious coating.
- Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for a few more minutes. This is when the magic happens, and the sauce thickens beautifully.
- After simmering, give it one last stir, ensuring everything is well-coated. The apples should be tender and glistening in their sweet sauce.
- Serve your Fried Apples immediately! They are divine on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked Fried Apples for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Pairing: Serve with pancakes, waffles, or as a topping for ice cream.
- Variations: Try adding nuts or different spices for a unique flavor.


