Name: Southern Fried Apples
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-484750H17M42S
Ingredients: 4 medium apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, to prevent browning); 1/4 cup water (or apple cider for extra flavor)

Description

These Southern Fried Apples are a classic comfort food that blends sweet, tart, and buttery flavors into a warm, satisfying dish. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a side, these apples are quick to make and packed with flavor. The caramelized sugar and cinnamon add a cozy, aromatic essence to each bite. Whether you serve them over pancakes, with biscuits, or on their own, these apples are sure to impress anyone at the table!

Ingredients

Scale

4 medium apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, to prevent browning)
1/4 cup water (or apple cider for extra flavor)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges or slices (about 1/4-inch thick). Toss with lemon juice to prevent browning, if desired.
Melt the Butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Cook the Apples: Add the apples to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
Add the Sugar and Spices: Sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt over the apples. Stir to coat evenly and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes until the apples start to caramelize.
Add Vanilla and Water: Stir in the vanilla extract, then add the water (or apple cider). Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, reducing slightly to form a syrup.
Finish Cooking: Continue to cook until the apples are tender and the syrup has thickened. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed.
Serve: Serve the Southern Fried Apples warm as a dessert, side dish, or topping for pancakes or ice cream.

Notes

For extra crunch, top with chopped pecans or walnuts before serving.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water or apple cider.
For a more decadent dish, drizzle with caramel sauce or serve with vanilla ice cream.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes