Name: Perfect Cinnamon Apples
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith), peeled and sliced; 2 tbsp butter; 3 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg (optional); 1 tsp lemon juice; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

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These Perfect Cinnamon Apples are tender, sweet, and bursting with warm spice—just like the filling of an apple pie but much quicker to make. I love serving them as a cozy side dish, a topping for oatmeal or pancakes, or even as a simple dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how comforting and versatile these cinnamon apples are. They’re made with just a handful of ingredients, ready in minutes, and fill my kitchen with the most amazing aroma. Whether I’m craving something sweet but not too heavy, or I want to elevate a basic breakfast, this recipe always delivers.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Apples (firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith)
Butter
Brown sugar or maple syrup
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg (optional)
Vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Lemon juice (to brighten the flavor and prevent browning)

Directions

I peel and slice the apples into even pieces—thick enough to hold their shape but thin enough to cook quickly.
In a skillet over medium heat, I melt the butter.
I add the apple slices and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
I sprinkle in the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), salt, and a splash of lemon juice.
I stir everything together and let the apples cook for another 5–7 minutes, or until they’re tender and coated in a syrupy glaze.
I finish with a splash of vanilla extract and stir to combine.
I serve them warm as a side, topping, or dessert.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes around 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, so I can have it ready in just 25 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add a handful of raisins or chopped nuts during the last few minutes of cooking for extra texture. For a deeper flavor, I swap the brown sugar with maple syrup or honey. If I want a dessert version, I top the warm apples with granola or vanilla ice cream. And when I’m feeling festive, I add a touch of allspice or clove.

storage/reheating

I store leftover cinnamon apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm them in a skillet over low heat or microwave them in short bursts until heated through. They also freeze well—I let them cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 2 months.

FAQs

What apples work best for this recipe?

I like using firm apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith. They hold their shape and don’t turn to mush while cooking.

Can I leave the peel on?

Yes, I can. The peel adds texture and color. I peel the apples when I want a softer, more uniform finish.

Is this recipe very sweet?

It’s sweet but not overpowering. I control the sweetness by adjusting the amount of sugar or using natural sweeteners like maple syrup.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often make a batch in advance and reheat as needed. It’s great for meal prep or quick breakfasts.

How can I use leftover cinnamon apples?

I spoon them over oatmeal, pancakes, waffles, yogurt, or even ice cream. They’re also great tucked into a wrap or baked into hand pies.

Conclusion

These Perfect Cinnamon Apples are everything I want in a quick, cozy dish—warm, spiced, and naturally sweet. Whether I’m using them to upgrade breakfast or serve them as a simple dessert, they never fail to bring comfort and flavor to the table.