Caramelized Cinnamon Apples with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
Introduction
Caramelized and warm cinnamon apples are a comforting and simple dessert perfect for any time of year. This recipe highlights the natural tartness of Granny Smith apples glazed with brown sugar and warming spices. Serve them on their own or topped with vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
- 4 Granny Smith apples
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup cinnamon
- Nutmeg, ground (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/3 cup water
Instructions
- Step 1: Peel, core, and chop all the apples into slices. Place them in a bowl and squeeze lemon juice over the slices with a pinch of salt to prevent browning. Gently toss to coat.
- Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the sliced apples to the skillet, then sprinkle brown sugar, cinnamon, and ground nutmeg evenly over them. Stir gently to coat all the apple slices with the spices and sugar.
- Step 3: Cover the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes until the apples start to soften and release their juices.
- Step 4: Mix the cornstarch with water until smooth, then pour it into the skillet. Stir gently to thicken the sauce, then turn off the heat.
- Step 5: Transfer the warm caramelized apples and sauce to a serving plate or bowl. For an extra special touch, serve topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and enjoy immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Use any tart apple variety if Granny Smith is unavailable, such as Honeycrisp or Braeburn.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cloves for extra warmth and complexity.
- For a vegan option, substitute butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based ice cream if desired.
- If you prefer softer apples, cook for a few extra minutes covered, stirring occasionally.
Storage
Store leftover caramelized apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warm. Avoid overheating to keep the apples tender and sauce glossy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh nutmeg instead of ground nutmeg?
Yes, freshly grated nutmeg will add a stronger and fresher flavor. Use about 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated in place of the ground nutmeg.
What can I serve with caramelized apples besides ice cream?
These warm apples are delicious served over pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, or even stirred into yogurt for a cozy breakfast or dessert option.
PrintCaramelized Cinnamon Apples with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
This recipe for Caramelized and Warm Cinnamon Apples offers a deliciously sweet and spiced treat, perfect as a comforting dessert or a warm topping for ice cream. Made with Granny Smith apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of lemon juice to balance flavors, the apples are gently cooked in butter until tender and caramelized, then thickened with cornstarch to create a luscious sauce. Serve immediately with vanilla ice cream for an irresistible classic delight.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Apples
- 4 Granny Smith apples
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Spices and Sweeteners
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup ground cinnamon
- Ground nutmeg, to taste (about 1/4 tsp)
Other Ingredients
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/3 cup water (for cornstarch slurry)
Instructions
- Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and chop all the Granny Smith apples into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a bowl and toss with lemon juice and a pinch of salt to prevent browning and enhance flavor.
- Cook the apples: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, then sprinkle evenly with brown sugar, cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Gently mix everything to ensure the apples are evenly coated with the spices and sugar. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for about 5 minutes until the apples begin to soften and caramelize.
- Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in 1/3 cup of water to make a slurry. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the apples and gently stir to combine. This will thicken the apple sauce to a delicious glaze. Turn off the heat after mixing.
- Serve: Transfer the caramelized apples with their sweet sauce to a serving plate or bowl. For an extra treat, top with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for their tartness which balances well with the sweet caramelization.
- Lemon juice helps prevent the apples from browning and adds a fresh, bright flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker or thinner sauce, adjust the cornstarch quantity accordingly.
- This dessert pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream but can also be enjoyed with yogurt or on its own.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine and use vegan ice cream.
Keywords: Caramelized apples, cinnamon apples, warm apple dessert, baked apples on stovetop, cinnamon nutmeg apples, apple dessert with vanilla ice cream
