Name: Cinnamon Southern Fried Apples with Pecans
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 5 apples – cored, sliced, and peeled; 4 tablespoons real butter; 2 tablespoons granulated white sugar; 2 tablespoons light brown sugar; 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt to taste; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup pecan pieces

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick, easy, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it with pancakes, waffles, or ice cream, these cinnamon fried apples deliver a burst of flavor and texture in every bite. The pecans add a satisfying crunch, while the sweet-spiced syrup gives the apples a melt-in-your-mouth quality. It’s ready in just 20 minutes and requires only a few pantry staples.

Cinnamon Southern Fried Apples with Pecans

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

5 apples – cored, sliced, and peeled
4 tablespoons real butter
2 tablespoons granulated white sugar
2 tablespoons light brown sugar
1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
salt to taste
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup pecan pieces

Directions

Begin by slicing and peeling your apples. An apple slicer is helpful for creating even slices.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add the sliced apples, white and brown sugars, lemon juice, salt, pecan pieces, and cinnamon to the skillet.
Stir everything together, allowing the sugar to dissolve and create a syrupy coating on the apples.
Continue stirring and cooking the apples over medium-high heat for about 6 minutes.
If the syrup starts to reduce too quickly or burn, reduce the heat slightly to medium or medium-low.
After 6 minutes, cover the skillet with a lid and let the apples continue cooking on medium-low heat for another 6 minutes, or until they are fork-tender but not mushy.
Serve hot as a side dish or breakfast treat.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 to 6 people
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Nut-Free Option: Omit the pecans if you have a nut allergy or prefer a smoother texture.
Spicier Version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or clove for extra warmth and depth.
Honey Glaze: Replace one tablespoon of sugar with honey for a floral sweetness.
Crisp Topping: Sprinkle a few crushed graham crackers or granola on top just before serving for added crunch.
Bourbon Twist: Add a splash of bourbon during cooking for a richer, adult-friendly flavor.
Vanilla Touch: Stir in ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract at the end of cooking for a more aromatic finish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover fried apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. How do I keep the apples from turning mushy?

Cook on medium-low heat and monitor closely. The goal is fork-tender, not soft or overcooked.

2. What are the best apples to use for this recipe?

Firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best as they hold their shape while cooking.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance and reheat it just before serving.

4. Can I freeze Southern fried apples?

It’s not recommended as the texture may become mushy after thawing, but it’s safe to freeze for up to 2 months if needed.

5. What can I serve these apples with?

They pair well with pancakes, oatmeal, waffles, or even vanilla ice cream.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure.

7. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is preferred for flavor, but margarine can be substituted if necessary.

8. How do I make this dish less sweet?

Cut the sugar amounts in half or eliminate one type of sugar, depending on your taste preference.

9. Can I use other nuts besides pecans?

Yes, walnuts or slivered almonds also work well in this recipe.

10. Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for the best texture, but if you prefer the skin on, it’s fine to leave them unpeeled.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Southern Fried Apples with Pecans is the ultimate comfort dish—quick, easy, and deeply flavorful. Whether you’re looking for a side, breakfast treat, or dessert topping, this recipe offers warmth and nostalgia in every bite. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of Southern charm any day of the week.