Prepare to be transported to the heart of Southern comfort with these irresistibly golden, caramelized fried apples that are so delicious, they'll make your grandmother's recipe look like child's play! In just 15 minutes, you can transform ordinary apples into a mouthwatering treat that's crispy, sweet, and bursting with warm spices that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds. Whether you're looking for a quick dessert, a stunning side dish, or a comforting breakfast companion, these Southern Fried Apples are about to become your new culinary obsession.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Wash and prepare the apples by peeling them completely and slicing them into uniform 1/4-inch thick wedges. Toss the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning and add a slight tangy flavor.
- Select a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed non-stick pan. Melt the butter over medium heat, ensuring it coats the entire bottom of the pan evenly and begins to slightly bubble.
- Carefully add the prepared apple slices to the melted butter, spreading them in a single layer to ensure even cooking and maximum caramelization.
- Sprinkle brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg directly over the apple slices, allowing the spices to meld with the butter and create a rich, aromatic sauce.
- Cook the apples for approximately 8-10 minutes, gently stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure all slices are coated with the spiced butter mixture.
- The apples are done when they are tender but still hold their shape, with a golden-brown caramelized exterior and a soft, sweet interior.
- Remove from heat and let the fried apples rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly before serving warm.
Tips
- Choose the right apples: Firm, slightly tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best for maintaining texture during cooking.
- Slice uniformly: Ensure all apple slices are approximately 1/4-inch thick for even cooking and consistent caramelization.
- Use a cast-iron skillet if possible: This helps create better heat distribution and develops a more intense caramelized flavor.
- Don't rush the cooking process: Medium heat is key to allowing the apples to soften and caramelize without burning.
- For extra richness, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor profile.
- Serve immediately for the best texture - these fried apples are most delicious when warm and freshly cooked.
- Experiment with toppings like a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of chopped pecans for added indulgence.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 246kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 25mg
