The Best Southern Thanksgiving Cinnamon Fried Apples Recipe

Autumn’s crisp breeze carries the sweet aroma of southern Thanksgiving cinnamon fried apples wafting through cozy kitchens.

Warm spices dance with golden-brown apple slices, creating a nostalgic comfort that speaks directly to the soul.

Generations of southern cooks have perfected this delightful dessert that melts in your mouth.

Butter sizzles and caramelizes around tender apple wedges, transforming simple ingredients into pure magic.

Each bite tells a story of tradition and love, connecting you to cherished family memories.

The rich, cinnamon-kissed flavor promises to be the star of any holiday gathering.

You’ll want seconds of this irresistible southern classic that turns ordinary moments into extraordinary celebrations.

FAQs

• What kind of apples work best for this recipe?

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal because they hold their shape and provide a nice balance to the sweet butter and sugar mixture.

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the fried apples earlier in the day and reheat them gently before serving. They taste best when served warm.

• Is it necessary to use both granulated and brown sugar?

Using both sugars creates a deeper, more complex caramel-like flavor. Brown sugar adds richness and moisture, while granulated sugar helps create a slightly crisp coating.

Cinnamon Fried Apples—Perfect Holiday Sweetness

• Dive into a classic Southern dessert that brings warmth and nostalgia to your holiday table with its rich, buttery flavor and homemade charm.
• Prepare this delightful dish in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want a delicious treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Create a crowd-pleasing dessert that appeals to all ages, from kids to grandparents, with its sweet, cinnamon-spiced goodness and versatile serving options.
• Transform an ordinary meal into a special occasion with this impressive yet easy-to-make dessert that looks and tastes like it came straight from a Southern cookbook.

Cinnamon Fried Apples Ingredient List

Main Ingredients:

• Apples: Sweet and crisp fruit that provides the base for this delightful Southern dessert.

• Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Sweet ingredients that caramelize and create a rich, golden coating for the apples.
• Ground Cinnamon: Warm spice that adds a classic holiday flavor and aromatic warmth to the dish.

• Butter: Rich dairy ingredient that browns and creates a flavorful foundation for cooking the apples.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy, cold contrast to the warm spiced apples.
• Walnuts or Pecans: Crunchy nuts that add texture and nutty flavor to the dessert.

• Lemon Juice: Prevents apple browning and adds a subtle bright note.
• Caramel Sauce: Sweet, rich drizzle that enhances the dessert's indulgence.
• Sea Salt: Small pinch that balances and intensifies the overall sweetness.
• Mint Sprig: Fresh herb garnish that provides a decorative and aromatic touch.

Tools for Thanksgiving Fried Apples

• Large skillet: Wide, heavy-bottomed pan perfect for evenly cooking apples and creating rich caramelization.
• Cutting board: Sturdy surface for safely chopping apples into half-moon slices.
• Sharp knife: Precise tool for slicing apples uniformly and quickly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Essential for stirring and preventing apples from sticking while cooking.
• Whisk: Helps blend sugars and butter smoothly without lumps.
• Small sauté pan: Perfect for toasting nuts until golden and fragrant.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient proportions for consistent results.

How to Make Cinnamon Fried Apples

Step 1: Prepare Apples

Slice apples into delicate half-moon shapes approximately half an inch thick.

Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the slices to maintain their beautiful color and prevent browning.

Step 2: Brown Butter

Heat a light-colored skillet over medium-low temperature.

Melt butter slowly, stirring continuously until it transforms into a frothy, bubbling liquid.

Watch carefully as the butter transitions from golden to rich brown, releasing a nutty aroma.

Step 3: Create Caramel Base

• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon

Whisk everything together, allowing the mixture to simmer and develop deep caramel notes for about two minutes.

Step 4: Cooking Apple Mixture

Gently fold apple slices into the caramel-butter sauce, ensuring every piece gets coated.

Cook on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until apples become tender and slightly translucent, approximately 12-15 minutes.

Step 5: Toast Nutty Garnish

In a separate pan, lightly toast chopped walnuts or pecans until they release a fragrant, roasted scent.

Step 6: Elegant Serving

Transfer warm cinnamon apples onto serving plates.

Tips for Best Fried Apples

• Squeeze fresh lemon juice over chopped apples immediately after cutting to maintain their bright color and prevent oxidation.
• Watch butter closely when browning, stirring constantly to avoid burning and achieve a rich, nutty flavor without scorching.
• Maintain a low to medium-low heat while cooking apples to ensure they soften without becoming mushy or losing their texture.
• Toast nuts separately to intensify their natural oils and create a deeper, more complex taste profile for the dessert.
• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of sea salt to balance sweetness and add gourmet touch.

Cinnamon Fried Apples Variations

• Gluten-Free Delight: Replace regular butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option and use almond flour instead of traditional flour to make the dish gluten-free and suitable for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Tropical Remix: Swap apples with mangoes or pineapples for a Caribbean-inspired version, using coconut sugar and adding a splash of rum for extra warmth and depth of flavor.
• Low-Sugar Version: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of granulated and brown sugar, reducing overall sugar content while maintaining a delicious caramelized taste for health-conscious individuals.
• Vegan Alternative: Substitute butter with plant-based margarine, use maple syrup as a sweetener, and top with dairy-free vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream for a completely plant-based dessert.

Serving Fried Apples for the Holidays

• Sweet Southern Comfort: Serve these heavenly fried apples over warm buttermilk biscuits for a delightful breakfast twist. The buttery, cinnamon-coated apples will melt perfectly into the flaky pastry.
• Dessert Delight: Pair the warm fried apples with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla bean ice cream. The cold, creamy topping creates a magical temperature contrast that will make taste buds dance.
• Holiday Charcuterie Charm: Arrange the cinnamon apples alongside soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese on a rustic wooden board. Sprinkle toasted nuts and drizzle caramel for an elegant appetizer that screams southern hospitality.

Fried Apples Storage Tips

• Store leftover fried apples in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
• Transfer cooled apples to a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag. Freeze for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Place apples in a microwave-safe dish. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warm and steamy. Avoid overheating to maintain texture.
• Warm apples in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently. Add a splash of water or butter to prevent sticking and restore moisture. Heat until thoroughly warmed through.

Southern Thanksgiving Cinnamon Fried Apples – Perfect Holiday Dessert Recipe

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4.9 from 11 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Sweet southern thanksgiving cinnamon fried apples deliver a nostalgic Southern comfort that brings warmth to family gatherings. Classic ingredients and simple techniques help you recreate this beloved regional treat with authentic flavor and traditional charm.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 cups chopped apples (Granny Smith, Fuji, or Pink Lady)
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) salted butter

Sweeteners and Spices:

• 1/2 cup (100 grams or 3.55 ounces) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons caramel sauce
• 1 pinch sea salt

Supplementary Ingredients:

• 1 medium lemon (juice)
• 1 scoop vanilla ice cream or cool whip
• 1/2 cup (50 grams) chopped walnuts or pecans
• 1 sprig fresh mint leaves (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare apple slices by cutting into uniform half-moon shapes approximately 1/2 inch thick, immediately drizzling lemon juice to preserve color and prevent oxidation.
2. Using a light-colored skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat, stirring continuously until it transforms from frothy to golden brown, approximately 3 minutes.
3. Incorporate granulated and brown sugars along with ground cinnamon into the browned butter, whisking thoroughly to create a smooth, caramelized mixture.
4. Gently fold apple slices into the sugar-butter sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly coated and allowing them to simmer at medium-low temperature for 12-15 minutes until tender and translucent.
5. Meanwhile, separately toast chopped walnuts or pecans in a dry pan until they release a rich, nutty fragrance, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
6. Plate the warm cinnamon-infused apples, crowning them with a generous scoop of cold vanilla ice cream, scattered toasted nuts, drizzled caramel sauce, a delicate mint sprig, and a subtle sprinkle of sea salt for enhanced flavor complexity.

Notes

• Always choose firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor balance in the dish.
• Control the heat carefully when browning butter to prevent burning, watching for a golden amber color and nutty aroma.
• Adjust sugar levels based on apple sweetness, reducing added sugar for naturally sweet varieties to maintain a balanced dessert.
• For dietary modifications, substitute butter with coconut oil for a vegan version or use monk fruit sweetener for a low-carb alternative.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 265
• Sugar: 29g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg