Description
Warm, sticky-sweet, and perfectly spiced—Traditional Southern Fried Apples are the ultimate comfort food you didn’t know you needed. This quick and easy recipe transforms humble apples into a buttery, cinnamon-kissed skillet delight that’s equally at home at the breakfast table or alongside your favorite dinner. Whether you’re looking for cozy breakfast ideas, an easy recipe for a sweet side dish, or delicious food ideas that come together fast, this Southern staple has you covered. With just a few ingredients and one pan, it’s a must-try dish for anyone who loves classic flavors and simple, soul-warming cooking.
Ingredients
6 medium apples peeled, cored, and sliced
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup light brown sugar packed
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 pinch salt
Instructions
1. Peel, core, and slice the apples into 1/2-inch wedges. Pat dry with a paper towel.
2. In a cast iron skillet over medium heat, melt the butter evenly across the pan.
3. Add apple slices in a single layer and sauté for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly golden and softened.
4. Sprinkle in brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir gently to coat apples. Cook for 5–7 more minutes.
5. For a thicker sauce, dissolve cornstarch in water and stir it into the skillet. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 2–3 minutes.
6. Add lemon juice and gently stir one final time to blend all flavors.
7. Remove from heat and serve warm with your favorite dishes.
Notes
For deeper flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract during the final stir.
If using very tart apples like Granny Smith, balance with a touch more sugar or honey.
Gently stir while cooking to preserve apple shape and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: traditional southern fried apples, skillet apple recipe, easy dessert, apple side dish