Sautéed Apples Recipe

Sautéed Apples Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Caramelized Apples Recipe

Original Recipe (1X) yields 8 servings

Ingredients

  • cup butter
  • 4 large tart apples - peeled, cored, and sliced inch thick
  • cup cold water
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • cup brown sugar
  • teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

  1. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the apple slices to the pan and cook, stirring constantly, until the apples are almost tender, about 6 to 7 minutes.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the cold water and cornstarch until the cornstarch is dissolved. Pour this mixture over the apples.
  4. Stir in the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Let the mixture come to a boil and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Remove the pan from heat and serve the apples warm.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories 143
Total Fat 6g
Saturated Fat 4g
Cholesterol 15mg
Sodium 45mg
Total Carbohydrate 24g
Dietary Fiber 3g
Total Sugars 20g
Protein 0g
Vitamin C 5mg
Calcium 18mg
Iron 0mg
Potassium 128mg

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Sautéed Apples Recipe

Sauted Apples

Origin and History of Sauted Apples

The delightful dish of sauted apples has roots deeply embedded in American home cooking. It is believed to have originated in the early 19th century, during the time when apples were widely cultivated in North America. Apples have always been a staple fruit, valued for their versatility and sweetness. While the exact date of the dishs invention remains unclear, the combination of apples, butter, sugar, and cinnamon became a popular method for cooking apples in the fall, particularly for dessert or as a side dish with meats like pork.

Regional Variations and Preferences

Sauted apples are commonly enjoyed across the United States, but certain regions have developed their own unique takes on the dish. In the Northeast, where apples are abundant, the dish is often made with tart varieties like Granny Smith, while in the South, sweeter apples such as Fuji or Gala might be preferred. In some parts of the U.S., people add a touch of maple syrup, while others may opt for a hint of nutmeg or cloves for added warmth and complexity.

How Sauted Apples Differ from Similar Dishes

While sauted apples may remind some of apple pie filling or stewed apples, there are key differences. Unlike apple pie filling, which is thickened with cornstarch and typically used as a pie filling, sauted apples are cooked in butter and sugar, allowing the apples to retain their natural texture and shape. Additionally, the use of cinnamon and sometimes vanilla elevates the flavor, creating a comforting, spiced apple dish. The simplicity and ease of sauted apples make them a perfect accompaniment to a variety of meals.

Where Sauted Apples Are Served

Sauted apples are most commonly served as a breakfast side dish, often paired with pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal. Their warm, sweet flavor makes them a perfect topping for porridge or as a comforting addition to a morning meal. In addition to breakfast, they can also be served as a side dish with roasted meats, especially pork, where the sweetness of the apples complements the savory flavors of the meat. Its also not uncommon to find sauted apples served as a topping for desserts like ice cream or pound cake.

Interesting Facts About Sauted Apples

1. Did you know that apples are one of the oldest cultivated fruits? They have been grown for over 4,000 years, and they are found in almost every cultures cuisine.

2. Sauted apples are a great way to reduce food wasteusing apples that are slightly overripe makes them perfect for this dish.

3. This dish is incredibly customizableadd nuts like walnuts or raisins for extra texture and flavor, or even a splash of bourbon or rum for a sophisticated twist.

FAQ about Sautéed Apples Recipe

Store leftover sautéed apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Yes, you can freeze sautéed apples. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat.

For sautéed apples, tart apples like Granny Smith or Fuji are ideal because they hold their shape well during cooking and provide a nice balance of sweet and tart flavors.

Yes, you can make the apples ahead of time. Cook them and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar. Adjust the quantity to taste, as these sweeteners may vary in sweetness.

Absolutely! Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or cloves for extra warmth. Vanilla extract is also a great addition for a richer flavor.

Sautéed apples are versatile and can be served with pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, ice cream, or even as a side dish with pork, ham, or chicken. They're also great in pastries like tarts or apple pies.

To prevent apples from becoming mushy, be sure to cook them over medium heat and keep an eye on them. If they do get too soft, you can reduce the cooking time next time or use firmer apples like Granny Smith.

Yes, if the sauce is too thin, you can add a little more cornstarch mixed with water. If it's too thick, simply add a splash of water or apple juice to loosen it up.

Yes, you can substitute butter with coconut oil, ghee, or vegetable oil, depending on your preference or dietary needs.

Comments

Barbara Hall

02/05/2023 04:00:18 PM

Terrific recipe! It's incredibly easy and delicious on its own or paired with ice cream. Following the advice of others, I incorporated 1 teaspoon of vanilla, reduced the cornstarch to just 1 teaspoon, and added a hint of nutmeg.

Jennifer Miller

12/26/2023 04:42:51 PM

I originally planned to use this as a topping for our pancakes, but half of my family couldn't wait and ate it all before the pancakes were even done! They absolutely adored it! I ended up making a second batch specifically for the pancakes, and it was also a hit! I added 1 tsp of vanilla to it, but honestly, it was delicious either way - my family enjoyed it on its own as well as a topping. Thank you so much, Jenny!

Angela White

02/24/2025 03:10:58 PM

These were absolutely delicious! My son said they tasted just like Boston Market's sautéed apples. I adjusted the recipe for 4 servings and used 2 large Fuji apples. I paired this with the dessert crepes recipe I found on the same site. A big thank you to Jenny for sharing this wonderful recipe!

Janet Phillips

11/15/2024 06:27:00 AM

I originally planned to use this as a topping for our pancakes, but half of my family devoured it before the pancakes were even ready!! They absolutely adored it! I had to whip up a second batch specifically for the pancakes, and it was also a big hit!! I added 1 tsp of vanilla to it, but honestly, it was fantastic either way - my family enjoyed it on its own as well as a topping! Thank you so much, Jenny!

Jerry Thompson

02/19/2024 03:39:24 AM

I prepared these apples as a side dish for our dinner. They turned out perfect and were a hit with my whole family. I recommend covering them while cooking, as mine didn't soften enough after 6 minutes. However, in terms of flavor, they were absolutely delicious! I only added a teaspoon of vanilla, but I believe they would be just as tasty without it. I'm excited to try them over ice cream or baked into pastries. They would also work well as a shortcut for making apple crisp. I will definitely be making these regularly from now on.

Ryan Moore

09/11/2023 11:17:36 AM

I, like many others, reduced the sugar to two tablespoons but followed the recipe as written. The apples I used were firm yet sweet, and when served with a dollop of Greek yogurt, it was absolutely perfect!

Nicholas Jones

02/05/2025 12:14:40 AM

I substituted tapioca for cornstarch in this recipe. I also added a bit of vanilla and a dash of nutmeg. The result was delicious! I brought it to a potluck and it was a hit.

Christine Parker

05/06/2023 04:53:15 AM

Simple and clear instructions to follow. I didn't make any alterations and my husband and I truly enjoyed the dish. We paired it with pork chops and coleslaw.

Diane Hill

09/23/2023 07:38:29 PM

Review: This is perfect for apple pie - I absolutely adore it!

Alexander Carter

01/09/2025 04:24:51 AM

These treats are absolutely scrumptious! Following the advice from other reviews, I included vanilla extract and a sprinkle of nutmeg, which took the flavor to the next level.