How to Make Southern Fried Apples in a Cast Iron Skillet

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There’s nothing quite like the comforting, nostalgic flavors of southern fried apples made in a cast-iron skillet. This classic recipe is a great way to use an abundance of apples during apple season. Furthermore, it is an easy side dish made with fresh apples and simple ingredients like sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, commonly found in your pantry. 

You will find that this simple yet delicious recipe for Southern fried apples in a cast iron skillet is perfect as a side dish, a topping for fluffy pancakes, or even a warm dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

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Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to serve at breakfast or a cozy addition to your dinner table, these fried apples are guaranteed to become a favorite recipe in your home.

As I mentioned, If you have an abundance of apples from your apple tree or just picked some up at the grocery store, this recipe is a great way to make the most of apple season.

With their tender texture and sweet, cinnamon-spiced glaze, they’re a delicious side dish or a versatile topping for fluffy pancakes, French toast, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. 

Tools Needed to Make Southern Fried Apples in the Cast Iron Skillet

• Cast Iron Skillet
• Spatula
• Medium Sized Bowl
• Pairing Knife
• Measuring Cups
• Measuring Spoons

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 large fresh apples (Pink Lady or Granny Smith are great choices)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or vegan butter for a dairy-free option)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ¼ cup apple cider (or apple juice)
• Optional: cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water)

Cooking Process

1. Prepare the Apples: Wash and peel them. Use an apple slicer to cut them into even slices for the best results. Firmer apples, like Granny Smith, are ideal because they hold their shape during the cooking process.
2. Heat the Skillet: Place your cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt completely, coating the bottom of the skillet.
3. Cook the Apples: Add the apple slices to the melted butter and sprinkle with granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir gently to ensure every slice is evenly coated.
4. Add Liquid and Flavor: Pour the apple cider and lemon juice, then stir in the vanilla extract. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the apples simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch slurry during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Stir until the sauce thickens and coats the apples.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the cooked apples from the heat and let them cool slightly to room temperature. Serve warm as a side dish, a topping, or even on their own as a sweet southern fried apple treat.

Choosing the Best Apples for Fried Apples

The type of apple you choose can make all the difference. Here are some of the best cooking apples for this recipe:

• Granny Smith Apples: Their tartness balances the sweetness of the sugar and warm spices.
• Pink Lady Apples: Sweet with a touch of tartness, they’re a great choice for soft apples that still hold their shape.
• Fuji or Honeycrisp Apples: These sweeter varieties add extra flavor to the dish.

Note: Avoid overly soft apples, which may turn mushy during cooking. Firm apples are ideal for the best results.

Variations for Using Fried Apples

This fried apple recipe is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:

• As a topping for fluffy pancakes, French toast, or waffles.
• Stirred into apple cobbler or apple pie for a quick dessert.
• Served alongside pork chops for a comforting, savory-sweet pairing.
• Paired with chopped pecans and a drizzle of maple syrup for an indulgent snack.
• Serve as a topping for your morning oatmeal for a delicious treat.

Helpful Tips for Southern Fried Apples

By following these tips, you’ll achieve perfectly cooked apples with a sweet and flavorful glaze every time! Here are some helpful tips for making the perfect Southern Fried Apples in a cast iron skillet:

Choose the Right Apples

Firm apples like Granny Smith, Pink Lady, or Honeycrisp work best. They hold their shape during the cooking process and provide a nice balance of tart and sweet flavors.

Even Slices for Even Cooking

Use an apple slicer or a sharp knife to ensure all apple slices are uniform in size, so it will prevent some from overcooking while others remain undercooked.

Preheat the Skillet

Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium heat to ensure even cooking and prevent the apples from sticking.

Melt Butter First

Always melt the unsalted butter before adding the apple slices. This creates a flavorful base and helps the sugars and spices stick to the apples.

Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet

If possible, cook the apples in a single layer. Overcrowding can cause the apples to steam instead of fry, leading to a mushy texture.

Adjust Sweetness

Taste your apples and adjust the amount of granulated sugar and brown sugar to suit your preference or the type of apples you’re using.

Control the Heat

Start cooking to soften the apples on medium heat, then reduce to medium-low heat to let the sugars caramelize without burning.

Serve Warm for Best Results

Southern fried apples are best served warm, either as a topping or on their own. If necessary, they can be gently reheated over low heat.

Store Leftovers Properly: Place leftover apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in a skillet or microwave.

Tips for Storing and Reheating Fried Apples

• Storing: Place leftover apples in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can stay fresh for up to five days.
• Reheating: Warm the apples over medium-low heat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Nutritional Values and Notes

For those on a medically restrictive diet, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional about personal consumption. This recipe uses simple ingredients and can be adjusted to accommodate lower sugar or vegan options.

Commonly Asked Questions

Can I freeze fried apples?

Yes, fried apples can be stored in the freezer. Store them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat on medium-low heat for best results.

What’s the best way to reheat fried apples?

Reheat fried apples in a large skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Can I use these apples as a pie filling?

These fried apples make an excellent base for apple pie or cobbler. Adjust the sweetness and spices to suit your recipe.

Final Thoughts

A delicious fried apple recipe is a great way to embrace the comfort food vibes of apple season. Whether you serve it as a delicious side dish or transform it into a new recipe with apple cobbler or pie, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. 

Be sure to save the recipe card at the bottom of this post for future use, and let me know your favorite ways to enjoy fried apples in the comments below!

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