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Southern Fried Apples

Southern fried apples are a classic comfort food that bring a touch of sweetness and nostalgia to any meal. This simple yet delightful dish features tender apple slices sautéed in butter with a hint of cinnamon and sugar, creating a caramelized, warm treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert.

The rich flavors and irresistible aroma make southern fried apples a beloved staple in Southern kitchens, embodying the heartwarming essence of traditional Southern cooking. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, they are sure to evoke cherished memories and satisfy your taste buds.

southern fried apples in a large skillet

Fall is the perfect time for everything apples.

These southern fried apples are a perfect addition to breakfasts (like pancake toppings), desserts (on top of cakes) or even just as a delicious sweet side dish.

southern fried apples on a white plate with fork

A big bowl full on its own or with a scoop of ice cream is a perfect idea too!

sliced green apples in a skillet with melted butter and brown sugar

What you will need for ingredients:

  • Granny smith apples – green apples give just the right amount of tart flavor to balance out the sweet sauce
  • Lemon juice – a sprinkle on top of the apples helps them stay fresh and add the acidity to the recipe
  • Butter – melted in a large cast iron pan. If you use salted butter you can skip the extra salt at the end.
  • Brown sugar for the caramelizing of the apples
  • Cinnamon for the flavor
  • Cornstarch, which helps add some thickness to the sauce
  • Salt to balance it all out

7 ingredients for the best southern apples you’ll ever make. If you’re in a pinch you can get rid of the lemon juice, cornstarch and salt and they will still turn out as a great apple dish.

southern fried apples in a large skillet with a serving spoon
Yield: 4 cups

Southern Fried Apples

close up picture of southern fried apples

Southern fried apples are a classic comfort food that bring a touch of sweetness and nostalgia to any meal. This simple yet delightful dish features tender apple slices sautéed in butter with a hint of cinnamon and sugar, creating a caramelized, warm treat that's perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 5 large Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced into wedges (about 6 cups)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • ½ cup butter
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Peel and slice apples into wedges and set aside. Drizzle the lemon juice over the apples.
  2. In a large cast iron skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
  3. Once the butter is melted, add apples and stir for a minute or two. Then add brown sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch and salt. Mix until well incorporated.
  4. Lower the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes until desired consistency is reached.
  5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

4

Serving Size:

1 cup

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 450Total Fat: 24gSaturated Fat: 15gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 61mgSodium: 721mgCarbohydrates: 60gFiber: 8gSugar: 47gProtein: 1g

Nutrition information is calculated automatically by an online tool at Nutritionix. It is not always accurate. Please use your own tools to check if you rely on this information.

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