Cinnamon Apples
If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dessert that’s both simple and delicious, look no further than cinnamon apples. This dish combines the natural sweetness of apples with the warm, aromatic flavor of cinnamon, creating a delightful treat that is perfect for any time of year. Whether you serve it warm on its own or as a topping for ice cream, cinnamon apples are sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
– 4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 2 tablespoons cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Pinch of salt
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately 150 calories, 0.5g of protein, 35g of carbohydrates, 2g of fiber, and 3g of sugar. This is for one person and offers a delightful balance of flavors.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Wash and peel the apples, then slice them into thin wedges.
3. In a large bowl, combine the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.
4. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the apples and mix well.
5. Melt the butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
6. Once melted, add the apple mixture to the skillet, stirring to coat the apples.
7. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to soften.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
10. Serve warm, optionally topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for a different sweetness profile. Additionally, feel free to use your favorite variety of apples or even add nuts for extra texture.
Serving and Pairings
Cinnamon apples are delicious on their own but pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or as a warm topping for pancakes and waffles. They also make a great addition to oatmeal or granola bowls.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for about 30 seconds or in a skillet over low heat. Cinnamon apples can be frozen, but it’s best to consume them fresh for optimal flavor.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the apples; they should be tender but not mushy.
– Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor.
– Avoid using too much cinnamon, as it can overpower the dish.
– Ensure the apples are sliced evenly for consistent cooking.
– Don’t skip the lemon juice; it enhances flavor and prevents browning.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or allspice for added depth.
– For a crunch, add chopped nuts or granola right before serving.
– Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking during cooking.
– Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
FAQs
Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but they may release more water, so adjust cooking time accordingly. Thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking.
What type of apples work best?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are ideal due to their balance of tartness and sweetness, but feel free to use your favorites.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apple mixture ahead and store it in the fridge. Just bake before serving for the best flavor.
How do I prevent the apples from browning?
Tossing the apple slices in lemon juice right after slicing will prevent browning and enhance their flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative to make it vegan-friendly.
Conclusion
Cinnamon apples are a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether as a comforting dessert or a flavorful topping, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it today and savor the warm, inviting flavors that cinnamon apples bring to your table!
Cinnamon Apples
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and peel the apples, then slice them into thin wedges.
- In a large bowl, combine the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the apples and mix well.
- Melt the butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Once melted, add the apple mixture to the skillet, stirring to coat the apples.
- Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to soften.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
