Fried Apples

This simple Fried Apples recipe is irresistibly delicious and so easy to make! Tender apples coated in a sweet brown sugar-cinnamon glaze are amazing on their own or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, on top of breakfast favorites or as a cozy side dish. As versatile as they are delicious!

Can’t get enough apple desserts? Make sure to try these favorites: Apple Crumble, Caramel Apple Empanadas and these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars!

Fried Apples Recipe

Nothing beats homemade Fried Apples when you want a cozy, flavorful fall treat! Tender apples coated in a cinnamon-brown sugar glaze – every bite tastes like fall. This simple, easy dessert is quick to make, versatile and sure to become a family favorite.

We are fortunate enough to live less than an hour away from Apple Hill – a destination that my family has been enjoying for nearly two decades now. I love having access to amazing apples that I have picked myself and more than that, all the sweet treats and offerings at the many orchards that we love to visit. We have slowly but surely become apple fanatics and enjoy them in so many delightful ways!

Made with just a handful of ingredients, this recipe transforms fresh apples into something truly irresistible. Brown sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg combine with butter to create a luscious caramel-like glaze that coats every tender slice. In less than 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dish that feels special but is simple enough for any day of the week. Can’t wait for you to give this one a try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These sweet and spiced Fried Apples are a true comfort food classic. Fresh apple slices caramelized in butter and brown sugar, then finished with warm spices for the perfect balance. Serve alongside savory dishes or spooned over pancakes and ice cream – you can’t go wrong! Here’s why we love this simple fried apple recipe so much:

• Quick and Easy: A handful of ingredients and about 15 minutes are all you need to make this recipe for fried apples. Simply delicious and perfect for when your next sweet craving hits!
• Versatile: While this dish scream dessert, it can also be served as a side dish (extra delicious with pork dishes!) or alongside a bowl of oatmeal. Enjoy with pancakes, waffles or our favorite, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Comforting Flavor: All the flavor you’d expect and want in a fall recipe!Warm spices and buttery sweetness make this a cozy favorite for any season.
• Better Than Cracker Barrel: One of our favorite sides at Cracker Barrel is their Fried Apples and this recipe is better in every way! Love enjoying this easy treat at home!

What You’ll Need

When the ingredient list is this short and simple – you know the recipe has to be good! A handful of pantry staples and some apples and you’ve got dessert DONE.

How To Make Fried Apples

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of fried apples! Sweet, buttery and perfectly spiced, this classic dish is one of those recipes that tastes like fall. Whether served as a cozy side, a breakfast topping, or a simple dessert, these fried apples are always a hit.

Let’s take a quick look at how to make the recipe and as always, you can find the full printable recipe card at the end of this post.

1. Peel, core, and slice the apples into wedges about ½ inch thick.
2. Melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt to the skillet. Stir to coat the apples.
4. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and add in the vanilla extract. Serve immediately.

Storage Information

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Variations To Try

• We love Granny Smith Apples in this recipe but for a sweeter version, try Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady apples.
• Spices add so much warmth to this recipe. Consider trying pumpkin pie spice, apple pie spice or add a pinch of allspice, cloves, or cardamom for extra warmth.
• Stir in a splash of bourbon along with the vanilla extract at the end for an adult-friendly treat.

Do I have to peel the apples?

No, if you prefer a more rustic texture, the peels can stay on. Just slice thinly so they soften nicely.

Do I have to use Granny Smith apples?

No, but they’re the best choice for holding shape and balancing sweetness. Any firm apple will work in this recipe!

How do I keep the apples from getting mushy?

Cook over medium heat and keep a close eye on them. You want tender slices, not applesauce. But that being said, if your apples go a little too far – keep cooking for a delicious applesauce!

Trish’s Tips

• For a thinner sauce, add a few tablespoons of water or apple cider during the last few minutes of cooking. This will also help deglaze the pan.
• Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness, but you can use other firm apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala.
• A cast iron skillet provides the best caramelization, but any heavy-bottomed skillet will work well.
• Serve warm as a side dish, as a topping for pancakes and oatmeal, or as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

More Amazing Apple Recipes

1. Caramel Apple Bundt Cake
2. Apple Pie Tacos
3. Apple Coffee Cake
4. Baked Apple Pie Dip
5. Caramel Apple Cupcakes