This recipe transforms fresh apples into a luscious, spoonable dessert that’s equal parts rustic and indulgent. Tender slices are gently simmered in a buttery brown sugar glaze infused with cinnamon and a hint of vanilla, creating a dish that’s reminiscent of pie filling—but without the crust. It’s a versatile comfort food that can be served warm over pancakes, tucked into crepes, spooned onto oatmeal, or simply enjoyed on its own.
Perfect for autumn evenings, holiday spreads, or quick weeknight treats, these stewed apples come together in under 30 minutes and fill your kitchen with the nostalgic aroma of baked goods and spice. The texture is soft but not mushy, with just enough bite to feel satisfying. Whether you’re using red apples for sweetness or tart green ones for contrast, this dish adapts beautifully to your preferences.
🧺 INGREDIENTS: (Serves 4–6)
- 4 medium apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- ⅓ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp water (or apple juice for extra flavor)
- Optional:
- 1 tsp lemon juice (to brighten)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (for thicker sauce)
- Handful of raisins or chopped dates
👩🍳 INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Prep the Apples
Peel, core, and slice the apples into uniform wedges or chunks. Red varieties like Fuji or Gala offer natural sweetness, while Granny Smith adds a tart contrast. Toss with lemon juice if using, to prevent browning and enhance flavor.
Step 2: Start the Caramel Base
In a wide skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes glossy and aromatic—about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add Apples & Simmer
Add the sliced apples and stir to coat them evenly in the caramel mixture. Pour in the water or apple juice, then cover and reduce heat to low. Let the apples simmer gently for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender but still hold their shape.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce
Uncover the pan and stir in the vanilla extract. If you prefer a thicker glaze, add the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens. For extra richness, you can stir in a splash of cream or a pat of butter at the end.
Step 5: Serve Warm or Chill
Serve warm as a dessert, side dish, or topping. These apples pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream, yogurt, pancakes, waffles, or even roasted meats. Leftovers can be chilled and enjoyed cold or reheated gently.
🍂 Variations & Tips:
- Spiced Upgrade: Add cloves, cardamom, or ginger for a deeper spice profile.
- Nutty Finish: Top with toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Sugar-Free Option: Use maple syrup or coconut sugar, or omit sweetener entirely for a more tart version.
- Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days. Can be frozen in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
