Hey y'all! Looking for a speedy and scrumptious snack or dessert that satisfies sweet cravings in a heartbeat? These Easy Cinnamon Apples (5 minutes) are tender, warm, and bursting with cozy cinnamon flavor, making them the ultimate go-to for breakfast toppings, quick snacks, or family-friendly treats. Best of all, you probably have everything you need in your kitchen right now. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Easy Cinnamon Apples (5 minutes) Recipe
- Incredibly fast—ready in just five minutes!
- Naturally sweet, with no refined sugar needed.
- Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a wholesome snack.
- Kid-friendly and easy to customize with your favorite flavors.
- Uses simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Easy Cinnamon Apples (5 minutes): Ingredients
- 2 large apples (any variety, like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (or coconut oil for vegan)
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup, honey, or brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Apples (5 minutes)
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Core and dice the apples into bite-sized chunks (no need to peel unless you prefer them skinless for extra tenderness).
Step 2: Sauté the Apples
In a medium nonstick skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add diced apples, water, and a pinch of salt. Stir to coat the apples evenly.
Step 3: Add Flavor
Sprinkle the ground cinnamon over the apples, drizzle with maple syrup (or honey/brown sugar), and stir gently. Cook, stirring often, for 3-5 minutes, until apples are just tender and caramelized around the edges.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract if using, and serve warm. Enjoy as-is, or with your favorite toppings!
Notes for the Best Easy Cinnamon Apples (5 minutes)
- Choose crisp apple varieties for the best texture; see this guide to apple types.
- Don’t overcook—apples should be fork-tender but not mushy.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice if you prefer a brighter flavor.
Easy Cinnamon Apples (5 minutes) Variations
- Maple Pecan Apples: Add 2 tablespoons chopped pecans and sauté with the apples.
- Berry Apple Combo: Toss in a handful of blueberries or raspberries during the last minute of cooking.
- Chai-Spiced Apples: Use ½ teaspoon chai spice blend instead of cinnamon for a spiced twist.
Equipment for Easy Cinnamon Apples (5 minutes)
- Cutting board and knife
- Medium nonstick skillet
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Easy Cinnamon Apples (5 minutes) Storage Instructions
Store leftover cinnamon apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving. These also freeze well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings for Easy Cinnamon Apples (5 minutes)
- Spoon over oatmeal, pancakes, or French toast for a warm, sweet topping.
- Serve with vanilla Greek yogurt or ice cream for an effortless dessert.
- Pair with granola for a parfait, or as a side for pork chops or roasted chicken.
Pro Tips for Perfect Easy Cinnamon Apples (5 minutes)
- For the best caramelization, avoid crowding the skillet (batch cook if needed)—see these sautéing tips.
- Use fresh cinnamon for the most vibrant flavor and aroma.
- Slice apples evenly to ensure uniform cooking, preventing some pieces from overcooking.
Easy Cinnamon Apples (5 minutes) FAQ
- Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes! Swap maple syrup for honey, agave, or coconut sugar as preferred. - Do I have to peel the apples?
No, but peeling creates a softer, more dessert-like texture; leave the skin on for more fiber and color. - Can I make this recipe ahead?
Absolutely! These keep well in the fridge and reheat beautifully for quick breakfasts or snacks.
Want more healthy fruit snack ideas? Check out these nutritious fruit recipes for inspiration!
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
-
1Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges.
-
2Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
-
3Add the apple slices, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and salt to the skillet. Stir well to coat the apples.
-
4Cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender but not mushy.
-
5Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Serve warm.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
Did you make this recipe?
Please consider Pinning it!!