Description
This Fried Apples recipe offers a warm, comforting side dish featuring tender Jonathan apple slices cooked in butter with a perfect balance of granulated and brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. It brings out the natural sweetness of the apples with a slight tang and a touch of spice, making it an ideal accompaniment for breakfast, dessert, or holiday meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (57 grams, ½ stick)
- 6 cups peeled and sliced Jonathan apples (678 grams, from about 5 apples)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (25 grams)
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar (27 grams)
- ½ lemon (juiced)
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (3 grams, optional)
Instructions
- Heat Butter: In a large heavy skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium-low heat until fully melted and slightly foamy, which forms the base for cooking the apples.
- Add Ingredients and Cook: Add the peeled and sliced Jonathan apples, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, lemon juice, kosher salt, and cinnamon (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine evenly, then cook uncovered over medium-low heat for 8 to 10 minutes. This allows the apples to soften and the sugars to caramelize slightly.
- Turn Apples: Every 2 minutes, gently turn the apples with a spatula to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. The apples should become tender with a slight bite, maintaining their shape without becoming mushy.
Notes
- Jonathan apples are tart and hold their shape well; you can substitute with Granny Smith or Fuji apples if preferred.
- Adjust sugar amounts based on apple sweetness or dietary preferences.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with a plant-based margarine.
- Serve warm as a side dish with pork, pancakes, or vanilla ice cream.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
