I get this warm and fuzzy feeling each time I smell cinnamon and apple in my home. That is how I know – fall is here! Nothing else speaks of coziness and warmth quite like the sweet delightful flavour of caramelized apples. Whether you use it as topping for your oatmeal, apple pie filling, or just enjoying a spoonful of the sweet fruity delight, this simple recipe brings out all the best fall flavours.
Wondering how to caramelize apples? It is way easier than you think! My method is super simple, using just few ingredients, and the result is unbelievably delicious. You won’t believe how easy it is.
What Do You Need to Caramelize Apples?
Apples – I am not too picky about the type. Honestly, I just use whatever I have at home or whatever needs to be used ASAP. Today, for example, I had some Granny Smith apples, so I decided to make this delicious treat. Any type of apples well, works just go with what you have.
Cinnamon sticks – While ground cinnamon is fine, I highly recommend keeping cinnamon sticks on hand, especially when cooking fruit. They make a huge difference by slowly infusing the apples with that warm, sweet flavor. Once I caramelize the apples, I even pop a few cinnamon sticks into the jar for extra flavour.
Brown sugar – I am all about deep, rich flavor of dark brown sugar. Demerara sugar is my go-to, thanks to its molasses-like taste. And since I love that maple flavor, I usually combine the brown sugar with maple syrup. The result is a flavour out of this world.
Pinch of salt – A little pinch of salt balances out the sweetness perfectly. I love sweet treats, but too much can be overwhelming so I like to balance it out with a pinch of salt. The salt makes everything just right.
Butter – If you have herb butter, especially rosemary or sage based, go for it! It takes the caramelized apples to another level. If not, plain butter works just fine. And if you have fresh herbs like sage or a sprig of rosemary, toss them in for extra depth.
Dutch Oven – A large pot with a big, flat surface is key for caramelizing apples, ensuring the sugar melts nicely with the fruit juices. I use my trusty Dutch oven for this because of its even heat distribution and spacious surface. Plus it is so easy to clean! I honestly believe juices and apple juices are so much better when cooked in my favourite pot. My 4-quart Dutch oven works wonders, just another reason why it is my kitchen hero. To learn more, check out my post for all the 9 reasons you should have one.
Mason Jars – If you plan on saving some for later, mini mason jars are great for storing your caramelized apples. But honestly, I often end up eating them right away, so don’t need them quite much.
Delicious Caramelized Apples
Course: Dessert, SidesDifficulty: Easy1
servings5
minutes15
minutes20
minutesTry these caramelized apples enhanced with cinnamon, brown sugar, and maple syrup. Perfect on pancakes, pies, or even with roast pork. Super easy to make and so delicious, they will add cozy flavor to any meal.
Ingredients
3 medium size apples
2-3 cinnamon sticks
3 tablespoons of brown sugar
2 tablespoons maple syrup
pinch of salt
50 gr herb butter (or plain butter)
Directions
- Wash the apples, peel them, and cut them into small squares.
- Grab your Dutch oven, which is perfect for this process, and melt that herb butter on low heat until it melts.
- Add the apples, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon sticks, and a pinch of salt and let it all cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes. Don’t forget to stir often, this keeps the sugar from burning and ensures apples caramelize beautifully.
- Watch as the sugar releases the sweet juices and turns the apples into a nice caramelized jam. Once the liquid is gone, turn off the heat and let everything settle. The juices and flavors need a moment to fully come together.
- Once apples are cooled, transfer them into a jar. Make sure you stick the cinnamon sticks in there too as will continue infusing the flavour. Now you have a jar of the most delicious fall flavours with multi purpose use.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Feel free to substitute the apples with pears. It will be equally delicious.
How to Use the Caramelized Apples
I like using caramelized apples as a side with roast pork, it is so good! They are also perfect as a pie filling or a sweet pancake topper. But here is a wildcard for you to try: add the apples as a topping on rice pudding. I know it sounds a bit unusual, but trust me, it is a wild and delicious combo.
Honestly, caramelized apples are good on just about everything: oatmeal, pancakes (which I made this morning, yum!), pie filling, or as a tasty side to roast pork. Get ready for some serious meals and impress your friends.
How to Store the Caramelized Apples
You can store them in the fridge for up to ten days for best results. I don’t recommend to freeze them, but make less and test how you like it first before making a big batch. Plus, it is so easy and quick to make, it is absolutely not necessary making a lot at once.
Spread the word
Don’t forget to let me know how they turned out! Share the recipe with friends and family, and spread the word for some inspiration. Enjoy the cozy, warm season!
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