Sautéed Apples Recipe | Cooked Cinnamon Apples

PUBLISHED November 12, 2025· MODIFIED November 12, 2025 · by the author listed in the recipe card 1515 words. · About 8 minutes to read this article.· This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases· Leave a Comment

Indulge in the comforting flavors of fall with our delicious sautéed apples recipe. Whether you’re topping off your morning oatmeal, serving them alongside a savory pork dish, or simply enjoying them as a sweet treat, these caramelized apples are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Making Apples This Way

Quick & Easy. Ready in under 15 minutes, making them the perfect addition to any meal.
Versatile. Serve them as a topping, side dish, or dessert – the possibilities are endless.
Naturally Sweet. No need for added sugars; the natural sweetness of the apples shines through.
Warm & Comforting. A cozy dish that brings warmth to your kitchen and comfort to your taste buds.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a delightful dish that celebrates the flavors of the season.

What Are The Best Apples For Cooking?

When it comes to cooking, some apple varieties are better suited than others due to their flavor, texture, and ability to hold up during the cooking process. Here are some of the best apples for cooking:

Granny Smith– Granny Smith apples are a popular choice for cooking due to their tart flavor and firm texture. They hold their shape well when cooked, making them ideal for pies, crisps, and baked desserts.
Honeycrisp– Honeycrisp apples are known for their sweet flavor and crisp texture. They work well in cooked dishes like applesauce, as they break down easily and have a naturally sweet taste.
Jonagold– Jonagold apples have a balanced sweet-tart flavor and a firm texture that holds up well when cooked. They are excellent for baking, as they add sweetness and juiciness to pies, tarts, and crisps.

What Is The Best Way To Cook Apples?

The best way to cook apples depends on the dish you’re making and the texture you want to achieve. Here are some popular methods for cooking apples:

Baking– Baking apples is a classic method that brings out their natural sweetness and flavor. Core and slice the apples, then bake them in the oven with a little sugar, cinnamon, and butter until they are tender and caramelized. Baked apples are delicious on their own or served with ice cream or whipped cream.
Stewing– Stewing apples involves cooking them slowly in a liquid, such as water, apple juice, or cider, until they are soft and tender. Stewed apples can be sweetened with sugar or honey and flavored with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. They are perfect for making applesauce or apple pie filling.
Sautéing– Sautéing apples in butter or oil over medium heat is a quick and easy way to cook them. Slice the apples and cook them in the skillet until they are golden brown and softened. Sautéed apples are delicious served as a side dish, topping for oatmeal or pancakes, or filling for crepes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Apples- Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.
Butter– Adds richness and depth of flavor to the dish.
Brown Sugar– Enhances the natural sweetness of the apples and contributes to caramelization.
Cinnamon– Infuses the apples with warm, cozy flavor.
Nutmeg– Adds a subtle nuttiness and complexity to the dish.
Vanilla Extract– Rounds out the flavors and adds a hint of sweetness.

How To Make Sautéed Apples

Prepare the Apples. Wash, peel (optional), and core the apples. Cut them into slices or wedges, depending on your preference.
Sauté the Apples. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the apple slices to the skillet, spreading them out in an even layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the apples begin to soften slightly.
Add the Spices. Sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg over the apples. Stir gently to coat the apples evenly with the spices.
Cook Until Caramelized. Continue cooking the apples, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
Finish with Vanilla. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This will add a final layer of flavor and aroma to the dish.
Serve Warm. Transfer the sautéed apples to a serving dish and serve them warm. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with your favorite dishes.

Tips And Tricks

Making sautéed apples is a simple yet delightful process that can elevate many dishes or stand on its own as a delicious treat. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure your apples turn out perfectly:

Use High Heat. Heat your skillet or pan over medium-high heat before adding the apples. This allows the apples to cook quickly and caramelize without becoming mushy. Use a wide skillet or pan to ensure the apples are in a single layer and have enough space to cook evenly.
Don’t Crowd the Pan. Avoid overcrowding the pan with too many apples, as this can cause them to steam instead of sauté. Cook the apples in batches if necessary, ensuring there is enough space between the slices for proper browning.
Keep an Eye on Them. Sautéed apples cook relatively quickly, so keep an eye on them and stir frequently to prevent burning. Cook the apples until they are tender but still slightly firm, with a golden-brown color on the edges.

Variations

Sautéed apples are incredibly versatile and lend themselves well to various flavor combinations and serving options. Here are some delicious variations to try:

Maple Glazed Apples– Instead of sugar, drizzle pure maple syrup over the apples as they cook. The maple syrup adds a delightful sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
Savory Sautéed Apples– Experiment with savory ingredients like shallots, garlic, thyme, or rosemary to create a savory twist on sautéed apples. These savory apples pair well with pork dishes or served alongside roasted vegetables.
Boozy Apples– For a decadent treat, deglaze the skillet with a splash of brandy, bourbon, or rum after cooking the apples. Allow the alcohol to cook off, leaving behind a subtle boozy flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples.

What To Enjoy With Sautéed Apples

Sautéed apples are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy them:

As a Topping for Breakfast. Serve sautéed apples over pancakes, waffles, French toast, or oatmeal for a delicious and comforting breakfast. The sweet and tangy flavor of the apples pairs perfectly with the warm, fluffy texture of these breakfast staples.
With Pork Dishes. Sautéed apples make a fantastic accompaniment to pork dishes, such as pork chops or roasted pork loin. The natural sweetness of the apples complements the savory flavors of the pork, creating a perfect balance of tastes.
As a Dessert Topping. Use sautéed apples as a topping for vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or pound cake for a simple yet satisfying dessert. The warm, caramelized apples add a burst of flavor and a touch of sweetness to your favorite desserts.

How Long Do They Last?

Sautéed apples are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Can You Freeze Them?

While sautéed apples can be frozen, their texture may change upon thawing, becoming slightly mushy. If you plan to freeze them, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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