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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 This Recipe Is 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 It
- 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.
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.
Serving Suggestions
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 will these 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.
Chef’s Tips
- 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
Equipment
- Large skillet
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter see Notes
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup see Notes
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- salt to taste
- 4 Granny Smith apples cored and sliced, peeled or unpeeled
Instructions
- In large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Once melted, stir in maple syrup and ground cinnamon. Stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add apple slices. Flip to coat in butter-syrup mixture and let cook until apples just begin to break down, approximately 5 to 8 minutes.
- Serve fried apples warm, on their own or with vanilla ice cream.
- Sweetener: You can use honey, white sugar, brown sugar, granular Swerve, or coconut sugar instead of maple syrup if you prefer.
- Make it Dairy Free/Vegan: Use vegan better or refined coconut oil.
- Make it Paleo: Use ghee instead of butter.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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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. 🙂