Description
Southern Fried Apples are a classic comfort side dish featuring tender, cinnamon-spiced apples cooked in butter and sugar until they develop a luscious, syrupy glaze. Perfect served warm alongside meats or with vanilla ice cream for a sweet treat, this recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy the natural tartness of Granny Smith apples.
Ingredients
Scale
Apples
- 6 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the Granny Smith apples into even pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
- Melt Butter and Cook Apples: In a large cast iron skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the sliced apples and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the apples have softened but still hold their shape without becoming mushy.
- Mix and Add Spices: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of sea salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the softened apples and stir gently to coat all pieces.
- Cook Until Syrupy: Continue to cook the apples for another 5 to 10 minutes, stirring often, so the sugars melt and create a thick, syrupy sauce clinging to the apples.
- Serve Warm: Remove the skillet from heat and let the apples cool slightly. Serve warm, ideally paired with vanilla ice cream or as a side dish to savory meals for a delightful contrast.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for the perfect balance of tartness and texture.
- Cook on medium-low heat to prevent burning the butter and sugars.
- Can be served as a side dish or dessert.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the apples.