Description
This Traditional Southern Fried Apples recipe offers a warm, sweet, and comforting dessert or topping that combines tender cooked apples with buttery, cinnamon-spiced syrup. Perfect served over pancakes, biscuits, or enjoyed on their own, this classic dish brings a taste of Southern charm to your table with simple ingredients and straightforward stovetop cooking.
Ingredients
Scale
Apples
- 5 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
Baking and Cooking Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into evenly thick wedges to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
- Melt the butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it becomes foamy, which helps infuse flavor into the apples.
- Cook the apples: Add the sliced apples to the skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to soften them and start the caramelizing process.
- Add sugars and spices: Sprinkle in the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, optional nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to coat all apple slices evenly, allowing the sugars and spices to meld with the fruit.
- Simmer the mixture: Reduce the heat to low and let the apples simmer gently for 5 to 8 more minutes, which lets the flavors deepen and the apples become tender.
- Finish with vanilla and lemon: Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon juice, then continue cooking until the syrup thickens and coats the apples beautifully.
- Serve warm: Remove from heat and serve the fried apples warm over pancakes, biscuits, or as a delicious standalone treat.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or a mix of sweet and tart for balanced flavor and texture.
- Adjust sugar amounts to taste depending on apple sweetness and dietary preferences.
- For extra richness, a splash of heavy cream can be added just before serving.
- These apples can also be served chilled as a compote or reheated gently.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
