Name: Southern Fried Apples
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for tartness); Optional: pinch of ground cloves or allspice

Warm, caramelized Southern-style apples cooked in a buttery cinnamon glaze—this classic Southern Fried Apples brings a touch of down-home comfort to any meal. Whether I’m serving it as a dessert with ice cream, a cozy breakfast topping, or a sweet side dish, these fried apples never disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and simple these Southern Fried Apples are to make, using ingredients I almost always have on hand. The buttery cinnamon glaze turns ordinary apples into something rich, aromatic, and nostalgic. They’re versatile, naturally gluten-free, and can be enjoyed in so many ways—from breakfast to dessert. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days or impromptu cravings.

Ingredients

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

4 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/4 cup brown sugar, packed

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/8 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for tartness)

Optional: pinch of ground cloves or allspice

Directions

I melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

I add the sliced apples and stir to coat them evenly in the melted butter.

Then I sprinkle in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, mixing everything well.

I reduce the heat to medium-low and let the apples cook for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender but not mushy.

In the last 2 minutes of cooking, I stir in the vanilla extract and lemon juice.

I serve them warm—either as a side dish, a dessert with a scoop of ice cream, or over pancakes or oatmeal.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: 190 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes use a mix of apple varieties for a deeper flavor—Honeycrisp for sweetness and Granny Smith for tartness.

When I want a warmer, spiced profile, I add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice.

For a richer glaze, I’ve used maple syrup in place of granulated sugar.

If I’m making this for dessert, I often top it with chopped pecans or a splash of bourbon during cooking.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave them in 30-second bursts until heated through. If the glaze thickens too much, I add a splash of water or apple juice to loosen it.

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FAQs

How do I keep the apples from getting mushy?

I make sure not to overcook them—10 to 15 minutes is usually enough. I also choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, which hold their shape well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I’ve made these apples a day in advance and simply reheated them before serving. The flavors actually deepen overnight.

What apples are best for fried apples?

I prefer Granny Smith for a tart contrast to the sweetness, or Honeycrisp for a naturally sweet and juicy bite. A mix of both works beautifully.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely. I’ve used plant-based butter substitutes like vegan margarine, and it still tastes delicious.

Can I freeze fried apples?

While I prefer them fresh, I’ve frozen cooled fried apples in airtight containers for up to 2 months. I reheat them in a skillet for best texture.

Conclusion

Southern Fried Apples are one of those timeless recipes I keep coming back to. They’re easy, comforting, and incredibly versatile. Whether I’m dressing up my breakfast or finishing a dinner on a sweet note, this dish delivers that cozy Southern warmth every time.

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