Few things capture the cozy feeling of fall quite like Simmered Cinnamon Apples. This simple dish transforms fresh apples into a warm, tender, and fragrant treat that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Whether served over pancakes, spooned onto oatmeal, paired with pork chops, or eaten straight from the bowl, these apples add a burst of flavor and comfort to any meal.
The beauty of simmered apples lies in their simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples—apples, cinnamon, sugar, and butter—you can create a dish that tastes like homemade apple pie filling without the crust. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and endlessly versatile, making it a must-have recipe during apple season.
In this article, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions, serving ideas, tips for success, and storage methods, so you can enjoy these tender, spiced apples all season long.
Why You’ll Love Simmered Cinnamon Apples
- Simple and Quick – Just a few ingredients and 20 minutes.
- Versatile – Enjoy as a topping, side dish, or dessert.
- Comforting Flavor – Tastes like apple pie without the effort.
- Kid-Friendly – Sweet, tender, and perfect for the whole family.
- Customizable – Adjust sugar, spices, or add extras like raisins or nuts.
How to Make Simmered Cinnamon Apples
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala work best)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 cup water or apple cider
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Peel and slice apples – Core and cut into thin wedges or chunks.
- Melt butter – In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add apples – Stir in apple slices, coating them with melted butter.
- Season and sweeten – Sprinkle in brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
- Simmer – Add water or apple cider, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender.
- Thicken sauce (optional) – Remove lid and let liquid reduce for 2–3 minutes for a thicker glaze.
- Serve warm – Enjoy immediately or store for later use.
What to Serve With Simmered Cinnamon Apples
- Breakfasts – Spoon over pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
- Snacks – Serve with yogurt or cottage cheese.
- Desserts – Pair with vanilla ice cream or cheesecake.
- Savory Dishes – A delicious side to pork chops or roasted chicken.
- Baking – Use as a filling for turnovers, pies, or cobblers.
Tips for Perfecting Simmered Cinnamon Apples
- Choose the right apples – Mix tart and sweet apples for depth of flavor.
- Control the sweetness – Adjust sugar depending on apple variety.
- Don’t overcook – Keep apples tender, not mushy, unless making pie filling.
- Enhance flavor – Add vanilla extract, maple syrup, or lemon juice for variation.
- Make it festive – Stir in dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped pecans.
Storing Simmered Cinnamon Apples
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing – Cool completely and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating – Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or cider.
FAQs
Can I make these without sugar?
Yes, simply use a natural sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or omit for a more tart flavor.
Can I use apple juice instead of water or cider?
Absolutely! Apple juice enhances the sweetness and intensifies the apple flavor.
What’s the best way to keep apples from browning while slicing?
Toss them with a little lemon juice before cooking.
Can I double this recipe for meal prep?
Yes, just use a larger skillet or Dutch oven and adjust cooking time slightly.
Conclusion
Simmered Cinnamon Apples are the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. With their tender texture, warm spices, and sweet aroma, they’re a versatile dish you’ll return to again and again. Whether you serve them for breakfast, dessert, or alongside a savory main, these apples are sure to bring comfort and joy to your table.
For more cozy apple-inspired treats, try Irresistible Salted Caramel Apple Bars, Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins, or Autumn Apple Cider Sangria—each one full of seasonal goodness.
Simmered Cinnamon Apples
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel and slice the apples into thin wedges for even cooking.
- Add sliced apples to a medium saucepan with cinnamon, brown sugar, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Pour in water or apple juice and stir to coat apples evenly.
- Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Cover and cook 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender.
- Serve warm straight from the pan or transfer to bowls.