Get ready to transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Tennessee with Dolly Parton's legendary Southern Fried Apples! This mouthwatering recipe is more than just a side dish - it's a slice of Southern hospitality that will have your family begging for seconds. Imagine golden, caramelized apple slices dancing in butter and cinnamon, creating a sweet symphony that's both nostalgic and irresistibly delicious. Whether you're a country music fan or just someone who loves incredible comfort food, these fried apples are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 apples, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Wash and peel the apples, carefully removing any bruised or damaged areas. Using a sharp knife, slice the apples into uniform 1/4-inch thick wedges, ensuring consistent cooking.
- Select a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan. Melt the butter over medium heat, allowing it to coat the bottom of the pan evenly and create a golden, slightly foaming surface.
- Carefully add the sliced apples to the melted butter, spreading them in a single layer to ensure maximum contact with the hot surface for even caramelization.
- Sprinkle the sugar and ground cinnamon evenly over the apples, gently tossing to coat each slice with the sweet, aromatic mixture.
- Pour the water into the skillet, which will help create steam and prevent the apples from burning while promoting tender, soft texture.
- Cook the apples for approximately 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure all sides are golden and caramelized.
- Test the apples' doneness by piercing with a fork - they should be tender but not mushy, with a slight firmness maintaining their shape.
- Remove from heat and let the apples rest for 2-3 minutes, allowing the syrup to thicken and the flavors to meld together.
- Serve warm as a side dish, dessert, or topping for pancakes, ice cream, or pound cake.
Tips
- • Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best caramelization and flavor balance. • Use a cast-iron skillet if possible - it provides the most even heat and creates the perfect golden-brown caramelization. • Don't rush the cooking process! Medium heat is key to developing those rich, deep flavors without burning. • For extra indulgence, add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the warm, comforting spices. • Serve immediately for the best texture - these apples are at their peak when warm and slightly syrupy. • If you want a less sweet version, reduce the sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey. • Leftover fried apples can be stored in the refrigerator and gently reheated in a skillet or microwave.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
