If you’re craving something warm, comforting, and bursting with cozy fall flavors, this Sauteed Cinnamon Apples Recipe is precisely what you need. Imagine tender, slightly tart Granny Smith apples gently cooked in butter, sweetened with honey, and kissed by aromatic cinnamon—all coming together in a luscious, thickened sauce that tastes like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re topping pancakes, dolloping over ice cream, or simply savoring them by the spoonful, these sautéed apples are an easy, elegant way to brighten your day with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Sauteed Cinnamon Apples Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role, from the buttery richness that softens the apples to the subtle sweet-spice harmony that makes every bite delightful. You’ll only need a handful of pantry staples to create this cozy treat.
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons to melt into a flavorful base that gently sautés the apples without overpowering them.
- Granny Smith apples: 2 pounds, chosen for their crisp tartness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Water: 1/3 cup, used to create a silky sauce and help cook the apples evenly.
- Corn starch: 2 teaspoons, for thickening the sauce to a perfect, clingy consistency.
- Honey (or brown sugar): 1/4 cup or to taste, adding natural sweetness that complements the cinnamon.
- Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon, the star spice that infuses warm, fragrant notes into the dish.
How to Make Sauteed Cinnamon Apples Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Begin by placing 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a deep sauté pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Let it melt completely, creating a rich, smooth surface that will soften the apples beautifully.
Step 2: Cook the Apples
Stir in your sliced Granny Smith apples, then cover the pan. Allow them to cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften—about 6 to 8 minutes. This step allows the apples to release their juices and become tender without losing their shape.
Step 3: Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry
While the apples soften, mix 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 1/3 cup of cold water in a small bowl. Stir until it forms a smooth slurry with no lumps; this will thicken the sauce later.
Step 4: Add Honey and Cinnamon with the Slurry
Pour the cornstarch slurry over the apples, then add 1/4 cup of honey (or brown sugar, or adjusted to your taste) plus 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. This combination infuses the apples with sweetness and that classic cinnamon spice we all love.
Step 5: Simmer to Finish
Stir everything together and bring the mixture back up to a light boil. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens and the apples are tender and luscious. This final simmer gives that glossy finish and perfect texture.
How to Serve Sauteed Cinnamon Apples Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a pinch of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top for a delightful crunch that contrasts the softness of the apples. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream amps up the indulgence factor, turning this humble dish into a dessert sensation.
Side Dishes
Sauteed cinnamon apples are a superstar companion to pork chops or roasted chicken, adding a sweet and tangy brightness. They also shine spooned over warm oatmeal or pancakes for a wholesome breakfast boost that feels like a comforting treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering these cinnamon apples in parfait glasses with Greek yogurt and granola for breakfast or a light dessert. Alternatively, fold them into warm Dutch baby pancakes or stuff them into crepes with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch that wows every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve got leftovers, simply transfer them to an airtight container and pop them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days—just waiting for you to enjoy their cinnamon-spiced charm again.
Freezing
Because of the texture of cooked apples, freezing is possible but best for short-term storage. Place the sautéed apples in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat your cinnamon apples on the stove over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of water or a tiny knob of butter can refresh the sauce’s silky texture if it becomes too thick.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are preferred for their tartness and firmness, you can mix in varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter or more complex flavor profile.
Is there a substitute for cornstarch?
Yes, you can use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as thickening alternatives. Just adjust quantities slightly, as some thickeners have different strengths.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Definitely! Swap the unsalted butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil and choose maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey to keep it vegan-friendly while maintaining the flavor.
How sweet should the apples be?
The sweetness is flexible. Start with 2 tablespoons of honey if you prefer a subtle sweetness, then add more to taste. Keep in mind that the apple’s natural tartness balances the honey beautifully.
What can I do if my sauce is too thin?
If the sauce isn’t thickening properly, simply make a little extra cornstarch slurry and add it gradually while simmering until you reach your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this wonderfully simple and flavorful Sauteed Cinnamon Apples Recipe in your cooking arsenal, you’re all set to bring a touch of warmth and sweetness to countless meals. It’s comfort in a bowl that feels special yet requires minimal fuss—something you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try soon and watch how it transforms ordinary moments into memorable bites.
Print
Sauteed Cinnamon Apples Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings (makes 3-4 cups)
- Category: Side Dish / Topping
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sauteed Cinnamon Apples recipe is a warm, comforting dish that features tender Granny Smith apples cooked in butter and honey, spiced with cinnamon, making it a perfect topping for pancakes, oatmeal, or as a dessert on its own. The apples are sautéed and simmered in a sweetened sauce thickened with cornstarch, resulting in a luscious, flavorful treat.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 lbs Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/3 cup water
- 2 tsp corn starch
- 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar, adjust to taste; use 2 Tbsp for sweeter apples)
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Melt Butter: Place butter in a deep sauté pan or Dutch oven and melt over medium heat.
- Cook Apples: Stir in the sliced apples, cover the pan, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened, about 6-8 minutes.
- Prepare Slurry: In a separate bowl, combine 1/3 cup cold water with the cornstarch and stir until fully dissolved to make a slurry.
- Add Flavorings: Pour the cornstarch slurry into the apples along with the honey and cinnamon, stirring to combine evenly.
- Simmer and Thicken: Return the mixture to a light boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the apples become tender.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of honey or brown sugar based on your preference.
- Use Granny Smith apples for their tartness; other apple varieties can be used but may alter flavor.
- This topping works well on pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, yogurt, or ice cream.
- For a smoother texture, mash some of the apples after cooking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
