Southern Fried Apples Recipe
If you’re searching for a classic comfort food that dances the line between dessert and side dish, look no further than Southern Fried Apples. Each tender slice is cooked in a glossy, buttery cinnamon sauce that fills your kitchen with the warmest, coziest aroma imaginable. Whether you grew up sneaking bites from your grandmother’s cast iron skillet or you’re brand new to this Southern staple, these apples are the very definition of soul-satisfying simplicity. Let’s dive into exactly how to master the art (and irresistible flavor) of Southern Fried Apples!
Ingredients You’ll Need
It doesn’t take a long list to create something special—just a few quality ingredients, each one playing its part to deliver sweetness, a hint of spice, and that signature silky texture. Here’s what you need to bring Southern Fried Apples to life, along with a tip for each component:
- Granny Smith Apples: Their tartness beautifully balances the sugar, and they hold their shape through cooking—slice them evenly for best results.
- Unsalted Butter: Creates a rich, silky base that coats each apple, so choose high-quality butter for the fullest flavor.
- Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that irresistibly glossy sauce—feel free to swap some for brown sugar for caramel notes!
- Ground Cinnamon: This warm spice gives Southern Fried Apples their classic aroma and cozy flavor—freshly ground if possible for maximum fragrance.
How to Make Southern Fried Apples
Step 1: Prep the Apples
Start by peeling, coring, and slicing your Granny Smith apples into even wedges. Uniform slices are key—they ensure every piece cooks at the same pace and soaks up that dreamy cinnamon butter sauce. If you want a rustic look, leave a bit of peel on a few slices!
Step 2: Melt the Butter
Set a large skillet over medium heat and add your unsalted butter. Allow it to melt completely so it coats the pan in liquid gold. Take a moment to inhale—the aroma alone starts building anticipation for those finished Southern Fried Apples!
Step 3: Whisk in Sugar and Cinnamon
Sprinkle the sugar and cinnamon over the melted butter. Grab a whisk and blend until the mixture turns smooth and syrupy. This is the magical base that will soak into your apples, giving each bite a sweet, spicy lift.
Step 4: Add the Apples
Gently add your apple slices into the skillet. Stir to coat every piece in the buttery cinnamon sauce—don’t rush this step, as each apple piece deserves the full Southern Fried Apples treatment! Spread them into an even layer for the most even cooking.
Step 5: Cook to Perfection
Let the apples cook, stirring occasionally, for about 6 to 8 minutes. You want the apples to soften without losing their shape and to become glossy and irresistible, bathed in that shiny sauce. Once they’re tender but not mushy, your Southern Fried Apples are ready to serve!
How to Serve Southern Fried Apples
Garnishes
Sprinkle your finished apples with an extra dash of cinnamon or a handful of chopped toasted pecans for crunch. For a dessert-like finish, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes your Southern Fried Apples up a notch—turning a humble skillet into a celebration!
Side Dishes
Southern Fried Apples are a chameleon on the table. Serve them alongside pork chops or roasted chicken for an old-school Southern supper, or let them shine next to fluffy pancakes or biscuits at breakfast. They even make a memorable topping for oatmeal or French toast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, try spooning the apples into parfait glasses layered with granola and yogurt for a brunch treat. Or, pile them on warm, buttery scones for afternoon tea with a Southern twist. You can even tuck Southern Fried Apples into little hand pies for a portable delight!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Southern Fried Apples left over, transfer them to an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 4 days, their flavor deepening as they soak up more of that sweet, spicy sauce.
Freezing
Want to save a taste of comfort for another time? Southern Fried Apples freeze well! Pack cooled apples in a freezer-safe bag or container, squeezing out any extra air. They’ll keep for up to three months—just thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the apples gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or apple juice if needed to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until perfectly heated through.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith is traditional for Southern Fried Apples, you can try Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Golden Delicious. Just keep in mind that some varieties may soften more quickly than others.
Can Southern Fried Apples be made vegan?
You bet! Swap the butter for a non-dairy alternative like vegan butter or coconut oil, and the result will still be rich, tender, and full of cinnamon flavor.
Are Southern Fried Apples gluten-free?
Yes, the basic recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any toppings like ice cream or garnishes to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
Can I make Southern Fried Apples less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the sugar to 1/3 cup or substitute with coconut sugar for a more subtle sweetness. The tartness of the apples will shine even more!
What is the best skillet to use?
A heavyweight skillet—cast iron if possible—really shines for Southern Fried Apples because it distributes heat evenly and helps create that signature caramelization. Nonstick works in a pinch, but the flavor develops best in cast iron.
Final Thoughts
Few dishes say “Southern hospitality” quite like a pan of warm, cinnamon-laced Southern Fried Apples. Whether you’re sharing with family as a sweet side or dressing them up for dessert, don’t be surprised if they disappear in minutes. Give them a try and let this cherished comfort food become a new classic in your own kitchen!
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Southern Fried Apples Recipe
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a taste of the South with these sweet and cinnamon-spiced Southern Fried Apples. They make a delicious side dish or dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 4 granny smith apples (peeled, cored and sliced)
Instructions
- Add the butter to a large skillet on medium heat. Once melted whisk in the sugar and cinnamon.
- Add in the apples, stir and cook until softened, for 6 to 8 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 265 kcal
- Sugar: 29g
- Sodium: 4mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 41mg
Keywords: Southern Fried Apples, Fried Apples, Southern Dessert, Apple Recipes
