Whether it’s the holidays or a quiet weekend at home, Southern Fried Apples are the cozy, skillet-cooked comfort food that makes any meal feel extra special. Tender apple slices caramelized in a cinnamon-sugar glaze? Yes, please. This dish is equal parts dessert, breakfast side, and Thanksgiving essential—and it comes together in one skillet with just a handful of ingredients.

Why You’ll Love These Southern Fried Apples

This recipe is a warm hug from the South: sweet, spiced, buttery, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re serving it as a classic Thanksgiving side, piling it on pancakes, or topping it with ice cream for a late-night treat, it delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and totally customizable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 cups apples (Granny Smith, Fuji, or Pink Lady), sliced into 1/2-inch thick half-moons
Juice of 1 medium lemon
2 tbsp salted butter
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon

Optional Toppings:

Vanilla ice cream or Cool Whip
Chopped walnuts or pecans, lightly toasted
Caramel sauce
Pinch of sea salt
Fresh mint leaves

How to Make Skillet Apples

Slice apples into half-moons, removing the seeds. Toss with lemon juice to keep them from browning.
In a light-colored skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter, stirring until it bubbles and browns (about 3 minutes).
Stir in both sugars and cinnamon. Cook on low for 2 minutes, stirring until well combined.
Add the sliced apples. Toss to coat in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender.
Toast the nuts (if using) while the apples cook.
Serve warm with your favorite toppings—or straight from the skillet. No judgment.

Tips for the Best Fried Apples

Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for balance.
Don’t skip browning the butter—it adds nutty depth.
Prefer softer apples? Slice thinner or cook a few minutes longer.
Want it richer? Add a splash of heavy cream or a drizzle of maple syrup.

The Southern Classic That Never Gets Old

This Southern Fried Apples recipe has been in our rotation since my grandma served them with biscuits and ham on chilly Sunday mornings. Now, they make their way to my Thanksgiving table, top our holiday French toast, and sometimes just show up when I need a little comfort food fix. Warm, cinnamon-y, and just sweet enough, they’re always a hit.

What to Serve with Fried Apples

As a Thanksgiving side next to turkey and dressing
On top of pancakes, waffles, or French toast
As dessert with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce
With pork chops or roasted chicken for a savory-sweet combo

Storing & Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use other fruits?

Pears work great! Try a mix of both.

What’s the best apple for skillet apples?

Granny Smith for tartness, Fuji or Pink Lady for sweetness.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, just reheat before serving.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Not at all—it’s personal preference!

One Skillet, Endless Comfort

Whether you’re planning a holiday menu or craving something warm and nostalgic, these Southern Fried Apples are the cinnamon apple recipe that always satisfies. Easy, delicious, and perfect with everything, they’re bound to become a staple in your fall and winter kitchen.

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Southern Fried Apples

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Author: Olivia Hartwellen
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Southern Fried Apples are a sweet, cinnamon-spiced classic cooked in one skillet. Tender apple slices are glazed in a buttery brown sugar sauce, making them perfect as a holiday side, breakfast topping, or comforting dessert. With just a few simple ingredients and under 20 minutes, this Southern favorite delivers cozy flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups apples (Granny Smith, Fuji, or Pink Lady), sliced into ½-inch thick half-moons
Juice of 1 medium lemon
2 tbsp salted butter
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup packed brown sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon

Optional Toppings:

Vanilla ice cream or Cool Whip
Chopped walnuts or pecans, lightly toasted
Caramel sauce
Pinch of sea salt
Fresh mint leaves

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Instructions

Slice apples into half-moons and toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.
In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter and cook until it begins to brown (about 3 minutes).
Stir in granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for 2 minutes until combined and bubbling.
Add apples and toss to coat in the cinnamon-sugar glaze. Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are fork-tender.
Optional: toast nuts while apples cook.
Serve warm with toppings of choice or straight from the skillet.

Notes

Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for flavor balance.

Browned butter adds rich, nutty depth—don’t skip this step!

For softer apples, slice thinner or extend cooking time slightly.

A splash of cream or maple syrup can make it even richer.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Desserts
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Southern American

Southern Fried Apples: The Sweet and Simple Cinnamon Apple Recipe You Need