Easy Cinnamon Apples Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful treat that warms the heart, look no further than this Easy Cinnamon Apples Recipe. These sweet and spiced apples are reminiscent of a cozy apple pie, but they come together in just 15 minutes on the stovetop! Whether you need a simple dessert after dinner or a comforting side dish for your family gatherings, these cinnamon apples fit the bill perfectly.

What makes this recipe even more special is how versatile it is. You can enjoy them as a snack on busy weeknights or serve them at brunch with friends. They’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time!
• Family-Friendly: The sweet taste of cinnamon and apples appeals to everyone, making it perfect for all ages.
• Versatile Uses: Enjoy these cinnamon apples as a warm dessert, a tasty side dish, or even atop pancakes or oatmeal!
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare them ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, natural ingredients that you likely have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Cinnamon Apples Recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that bring out the natural sweetness of the apples. Here’s what you need to gather:

• 3 apples (about 3 cups, chopped)
• 2 Tablespoons water
• 1 Tablespoon salted butter (or coconut oil)
• 1 Tablespoon maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add Dried Fruit: Toss in some raisins or cranberries for an extra burst of flavor.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist.
• Incorporate Nuts: Sprinkle in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and nutrition.
• Top with Yogurt: Serve the warm cinnamon apples over dairy-free yogurt for a creamy contrast.

How to Make Easy Cinnamon Apples Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by cutting your apples into same-sized pieces (about ½-1” cubes). This ensures they cook evenly. Choose your favorite variety—sweet ones like Fuji or tart ones like Granny Smith work beautifully!

Step 2: Cook the Apples

Put the apple pieces into a skillet with 2 tablespoons of water. Cover the pan and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal here is to soften the apples slightly while allowing some water to evaporate.

Step 3: Add Butter

Once the apples are softened, add 1 tablespoon of butter (or coconut oil) to the skillet. Stir well until all apple pieces are coated. This step adds richness and flavor! Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring every minute until they reach that perfect tender texture.

Step 4: Spice It Up

Now it’s time to add some magic! Mix in maple syrup, ground cinnamon, sea salt, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until well combined. The aroma will be heavenly!

Step 5: Final Cooking

Continue cooking for about 5 more minutes, stirring frequently until your apples have reached your desired softness. If you prefer them softer, feel free to let them cook longer.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done, remove from heat and serve warm. These Easy Cinnamon Apples can stand alone as a sweet treat or be dressed up alongside pancakes or oatmeal—the possibilities are endless!

Enjoy every bite of this simple yet delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Cinnamon Apples Recipe

Making cinnamon apples is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the best results!

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Their natural sweetness enhances the flavor of your dish, making it taste even more like a warm apple pie.
• Uniform Size Matters: Cut your apples into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking, so all the apples soften at the same time, giving you that perfect texture.
• Adjust Sweetness to Your Taste: Feel free to modify the amount of maple syrup based on your preference. This flexibility allows you to create the perfect balance between sweetness and tartness.
• Experiment with Spices: Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for added depth of flavor. These spices complement the apples beautifully and add a warm, cozy aroma to your kitchen.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare this dish in advance and reheat it when needed. The flavors deepen as they sit, making these cinnamon apples an even more delectable treat later on!

How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Apples Recipe

These easy cinnamon apples are not only delicious but also versatile! You can serve them in various ways to complement meals or enjoy as a snack.

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for crunch and added nutrition.
• Coconut Whipped Cream: A dollop of coconut whipped cream adds a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the warm apples.
• Fresh Mint Leaves: A few fresh mint leaves can brighten up the presentation while adding a refreshing note to each bite.

Side Dishes

• Oatmeal: Serve these cinnamon apples over a bowl of warm oatmeal for a hearty breakfast that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer these apples with yogurt and granola for a delightful parfait that makes for a great snack or light dessert.
• Pancakes or Waffles: Top your morning pancakes or waffles with these sautéed apples instead of syrup for a healthier twist on breakfast.
• Savory Dishes: Pair them with savory dishes like roasted chicken or quinoa salad to balance flavors and add a sweet touch to your meal.

Enjoy exploring different serving options, and let these easy cinnamon apples bring warmth and comfort to your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Cinnamon Apples Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in advance and enjoy it throughout the week, making your busy days just a little sweeter.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cinnamon apples in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To maintain freshness, ensure they are cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing

• Allow the cinnamon apples to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply place the desired amount of cinnamon apples in a skillet over medium heat.
• Stir occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them in a microwave-safe dish for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

How do I make the Easy Cinnamon Apples Recipe vegan?

To make this Easy Cinnamon Apples Recipe vegan, simply substitute the salted butter with coconut oil or any plant-based butter alternative.

Can I use different types of apples for this Easy Cinnamon Apples Recipe?

Absolutely! Different apple varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji will give you varying flavors and textures. Feel free to mix and match based on your preference!

How can I enhance my Easy Cinnamon Apples Recipe?

You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch, or sprinkle some raisins for added sweetness. A dash of nutmeg can also elevate the flavor profile!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in crafting this Easy Cinnamon Apples Recipe as much as I do! It’s a simple yet delightful treat that captures the essence of comfort food. Whether enjoyed as a dessert, snack, or breakfast addition, these cinnamon apples will surely bring warmth to your heart and home. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me!