Traditional Southern Fried Apples

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Golden, buttery, and laced with warm cinnamon, these Traditional Southern Fried Apples are the kind of cozy skillet dessert that feels like a warm hug from grandma’s kitchen. The apples soften into tender, syrupy perfection while the cinnamon-sugar glaze thickens just enough to coat each slice like velvet. Whether you’re layering them on fluffy pancakes or scooping them over vanilla ice cream, they’re irresistibly comforting.

Southern fried apples strike that perfect balance between sweet and spiced, ideal for any season but especially magical in the fall. The cast iron skillet works wonders here, helping caramelize the edges while locking in flavor. Plus, this recipe is surprisingly quick, making it a go-to for weeknight treats or unexpected guests.

What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

Firm apples hold up best for frying. Go with Granny Smith for a tart bite or Honeycrisp for a naturally sweet, juicy touch. A mix of the two brings dimension to the flavor. Softer apples like Red Delicious tend to break down too much, so steer clear.

Ingredients for the Traditional Southern Fried Apples

Apples: The star ingredient. Choose firm, crisp apples that won’t turn mushy. Sliced evenly for uniform cooking.

Butter: Essential for that rich, golden glaze. Use unsalted to control sweetness.

Brown Sugar: Adds depth and a molasses-like warmth.

Granulated Sugar: Balances the brown sugar for that classic caramel-like coating.

Cinnamon: Brings the cozy, warm spice that defines this Southern classic.

Nutmeg (Optional): Just a pinch intensifies the spice profile beautifully.

Cornstarch (Optional): For a thicker glaze, especially if you plan to use it as a topping.

Water: Helps create the syrupy base while cooking.

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How To Make the Traditional Southern Fried Apples

Step 1: Slice and Prep

Peel, core, and slice the apples into 1/2-inch wedges. Aim for consistency so they cook evenly. If prepping ahead, soak slices in lemon water to prevent browning.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Melt the butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Once melted, stir in both sugars, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Let the mixture bubble for a minute to meld.

Step 3: Cook the Apples

Add the apple slices to the skillet and toss to coat. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes until apples are tender but not mushy.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

For a thicker glaze, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and stir into the skillet in the final few minutes.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Remove from heat and serve immediately while hot and glossy. Spoon any extra syrup over the top.

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Serving and Storing Fried Apples

Serve these apples hot off the skillet or let them cool slightly to thicken the syrup more. They keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave until warmed through.

Freeze only if necessary—the texture will soften more after thawing, but flavor remains rich. Best used as a topping post-freeze.

What to Serve With Traditional Southern Fried Apples?

Buttermilk Pancakes

Add a warm, spiced topping to your breakfast stack.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Let the syrupy apples melt right into the creamy scoops.

Pork Chops

Surprising? Maybe. But pork and apples are a Southern match made in heaven.

Oatmeal

Stir in a spoonful for an instant autumnal upgrade.

Pound Cake

Drizzle apples and syrup over thick slices for dessert elegance.

Biscuits

Split a fluffy biscuit and spoon the apples inside for a breakfast sandwich twist.

Greek Yogurt

Scoop them over chilled yogurt for a comforting yet fresh snack.

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Want More Comforting Side Dish Ideas?

If you loved these Traditional Southern Fried Apples, you might also enjoy these warming favorites:

• Crispy Buttery Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy – Ultimate Southern comfort.
• Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes – Rich, indulgent, and full of nostalgia.
• Roasted Parmesan Potatoes and Broccoli – A cozy, balanced veggie side.
• Oven Fried Potatoes and Onions – Crispy, caramelized, and irresistible.
• Roasted Broccoli and Sweet Potatoes – Simple, wholesome, and hearty.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And if you gave them your own twist—maybe a splash of bourbon or a sprinkle of pecans—I’d love to hear how it turned out. Drop your version in the comments!

For more Southern-inspired recipes and cozy comfort food, explore my Pinterest page. Fresh recipes posted daily!

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