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- 4 large Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced - 1/4 cup unsalted butter - 1/2 cup brown sugar Granny Smith apples give the best flavor and a perfect tartness. Their firm texture holds up well when cooked. Next, unsalted butter adds richness and depth. Brown sugar brings sweetness, creating that delightful caramel-like sauce. - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg - 1 tablespoon lemon juice Ground cinnamon is a must for that warm, cozy flavor. Nutmeg adds a hint of spice that makes this dish special. Lemon juice brightens the apples and balances the sweetness. - 1/2 cup chopped pecans - 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Chopped pecans give a nice crunch and add a nutty flavor. Vanilla extract enhances the overall taste, making the dish even more comforting. Feel free to add these for extra flair! Start by peeling the apples. I like using Granny Smith apples for their tartness. Once peeled, core them and slice them into thin pieces. If you want to keep the apples from browning, soak them in lemon juice for a few minutes. This step adds a nice brightness to the dish. Next, melt your unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Wait until it bubbles and gets a bit foamy. Then, add your sliced apples to the pan. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes. You want them to start softening but not turn mushy yet. Now comes the fun part. Sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper over the apples. Stir well to coat everything. The sugar and spices will create a lovely sweet sauce. Add in the lemon juice and vanilla extract for a flavor boost. Continue to stir for about 5 more minutes. The apples should become tender, and the sauce should thicken slightly. If you choose to, add chopped pecans for a crunchy touch and cook for another minute. Then, remove the skillet from the heat and let the apples cool a bit before serving. To get the right texture for your Southern fried apples, focus on cooking time and heat. Start with medium heat. This helps the apples cook slowly and evenly. Sauté the apples for 2-3 minutes. They should start to soften but not fall apart. Test the apples for tenderness by poking them with a fork. They should be soft but still hold their shape. If they need more time, continue to cook for an extra minute or two. You can change the flavor of your fried apples with different spices. Try adding ginger or allspice for a unique twist. For a sweeter taste, you can add more brown sugar or honey. If you want a bit of tartness, a splash of lemon juice works great. Adjust the sweetness based on your taste. Remember, the balance of sweet and tart is key. Serving your Southern fried apples can be fun and creative. I recommend serving them warm in a bowl. Drizzle some sauce from the skillet over the apples. For a special touch, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon and some whole pecans. This adds color and crunch to your dish. Enjoy this comforting dessert warm or as a side dish! {{image_2}} You can change the apples for a new taste. Try using Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady apples. Each type brings a unique flavor. Honeycrisp is sweet and crisp, while Fuji is juicy and slightly tart. You can also use pears or peaches for a different twist. Just slice them like apples and follow the same steps. Adding a splash of bourbon or rum can take your dish to a new level. The warmth of the alcohol pairs well with the spices. You can also mix in different nuts. Chopped walnuts or almonds offer a nice crunch. They will add texture and flavor to your dish. If you want a lighter version, reduce the sugar. You can use just a little brown sugar, or swap it for honey or maple syrup. Natural sweeteners are great options. They can give you the sweetness you want without extra calories. Enjoy your Southern fried apples with less guilt! To store your Southern Fried Apples, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge. They will last about three to five days. Be sure to check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying them again. When it comes to reheating, the best way is in a skillet. Heat them over medium heat until warm. This keeps the apples soft and the sauce tasty. You can also use a microwave for quick reheating. Just cover them with a microwave-safe lid. Serve them warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. To freeze Southern Fried Apples, let them cool completely first. Place them in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. They can last for about three months in the freezer. To use frozen apples, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat them in a skillet or microwave. Enjoy the sweet flavors just like fresh! Yes, you can prepare Southern Fried Apples in advance. Cook them as the recipe states and let them cool. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat them in a skillet over low heat. This way, the apples regain their warmth and flavor. Southern Fried Apples are versatile and can enhance many meals. They pair well with: - Pork chops or fried chicken for a savory touch. - Pancakes or waffles for breakfast. - Vanilla ice cream for a sweet dessert. This dish adds a sweet and tangy layer to your meal, making it comforting and delicious. To make Southern Fried Apples vegan, swap the butter for coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. Use brown sugar or maple syrup in place of regular sugar. Both options will keep the flavor rich and sweet. These swaps ensure you enjoy the same delightful taste while accommodating a vegan diet. Southern Fried Apples combine classic ingredients with simple steps to create a tasty dish. You learned how to peel and cook apples with butter, sugar, and spices. Tips help you achieve the perfect texture, along with ways to add your own twist. Whether you serve them warm or cold, these apples are a delightful treat. Try new fruits or adjust sweetness for your taste. Enjoy creating your version of this Southern favorite.

Southern Fried Apples

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Sweet & Spicy Southern Fried Apples with this easy recipe! Made with Granny Smith apples, butter, and a blend of spices, these warm, caramelized treats are perfect as a side dish or a dessert. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious treat that everyone will love. Click through to explore this mouthwatering recipe and discover how to elevate your meal with this cozy favorite!
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Ingredients
  

4 large Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1/2 cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions
 

In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat until bubbling.

    Add the sliced apples to the skillet and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.

      Sprinkle the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper over the apples. Stir well to coat the apples in the sweet spice mixture.

        Add the lemon juice and vanilla extract to enhance the flavor, and continue to stir everything together.

          Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.

            If using, stir in the chopped pecans for a delicious crunchy texture and cook for another minute.

              Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 15 mins | 4 servings

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the fried apples warm in a bowl, drizzled with some of the sauce from the skillet. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a few whole pecans for an appealing finish. Enjoy as a delightful side dish or a warm dessert topped with vanilla ice cream!