These classic fried apples are simple and delicious but made with a slightly healthy and more delicious twist: maple syrup instead of refined sugar. The maple syrup makes these fried apples even richer and they’re a lot like the fried apples at Cracker Barrel! They’re the perfect side dish or topping come fall and winter. Easy to make paleo and vegan, too.
Why These Classic Fried Apples Are So Good!
- They are a classic treat for fall and winter – perfect for side dishes, toppings, breakfast, brunch and dessert!
- They are so quick and easy – just 4 ingredients and less than 20 minutes to make!
- The addition of maple syrup makes them richer in flavor as well as healthier!
How to Make This Classic Fried Apple Recipe
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat; stir the maple and cinnamon into the hot butter.
- Add the apples and cook until they begin to break down, 5 to 8 minutes.
Simple fried apples with just four ingredients!
I love how quick and easy these apples are to make and you only need four ingredients to make this yummy treat!
- Butter
- Maple Syrup: Buy the best quality you can for the richest taste
- Ground Cinnamon
- Granny Smith Apples: Granny Smith apples are my go to for this recipe as they are crisp in texture. Golden Delicious and Pink Lady will also work well.
To make these classic fried apples vegan or paleo, you can use refined coconut oil in the place of the butter.
What do you serve with classic fried apples?
These delicious apples are so perfect to serve with so many things! They are great to serve up with a savory holiday main dish like pork chops, baked ham or a roast chicken. They are also great for breakfast and brunch – use them to top pancakes, pumpkin waffles and a French Toast Cassrole!
You can of course serve them as a dessert too, with a scoop of ice cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar!
How long to cooked apples last?
The cooked fried apples can be refrigerated in an air tight container for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the apples – if you plan to do this, undercook them rather than over cook so they don’t become mushy.
Top Tips to Make Classic Fried Apples
- You can peel the apples or leave the skin in tact – it’s personal preference.
- You can use white sugar in place of maple syrup if you prefer.
- Granny Smith apples are preferable to use in this recipe, Pink Lady’s and Golden Delicious will also work – don’t use an apple with too soft a texture.
Be sure to check out these other fall recipes!
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Classic Fried Apples
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt
- 4 Granny Smith apples peeled or not, I left the peel on but you can peel them for sure
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat; stir the maple and cinnamon into the hot butter.
- Add the apples and cook until they begin to break down, 5 to 8 minutes.
I used what I had on hand, which was an apple orchard variety, no Granny Smith. I also added a pinch of nutmeg, a splash of vanilla, a handful of raisins, and a few walnuts. The base was ooey gooey, yet light. I’m glad I added my extras because I think the recipe is right in calling for Granny Smith. I’m sure the tartness really adds to the flavor. I’ll definitely go that route the next time.
Thanks for sharing! An apple orchard sounds amazing! We hope you will try it again. 🙂