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Caramelized Cinnamon Apples with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

4.6 from 647 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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