Name: Caramelized Apples
Prep time: 3 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium-sized apples (~360g), peeled or unpeeled, cubed; 2 tablespoons (30g) vegan butter or oil; ¼ cup (50g) packed brown sugar (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Generous pinch of salt (if using unsalted butter or oil)

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These caramelized apples are a quick and cozy topping made with just a handful of pantry staples. Lightly spiced with cinnamon and sweetened with brown sugar, they become tender, golden, and perfectly gooey. Ideal for spooning over pancakes, oatmeal, cakes, cookies, or simply enjoying by the spoonful, these caramelized apples are a delicious way to elevate any dish.

Caramelized Apples

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: Ready in just 15 minutes.
Simple ingredients: Requires only a few kitchen staples.
Versatile: Perfect topping for both sweet breakfasts and desserts.
Naturally vegan: Made with vegan butter or oil.
Customizable sweetness: Adjust sugar or use natural sweeteners.
Warm and comforting: A cozy addition to any fall or winter recipe.
Kid-friendly: Soft, sweet, and cinnamon-spiced—what’s not to love?
No fancy equipment: All you need is a frying pan.
Great for using up apples: A smart way to use apples before they soften.
Make-ahead friendly: Stores well for a few days in the fridge.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 medium apples (~360g), peeled or unpeeled, cubed
2 tablespoons vegan butter or oil
¼ cup packed brown sugar (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Generous pinch of salt (if using unsalted butter or oil)

Directions

Melt vegan butter in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
Add the cubed apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are lightly golden and nearly tender.
Reduce heat to medium. Continue cooking for another 5–10 minutes, or until the apples reach your desired softness and caramelization.
If the mixture begins to stick, add a splash of water to loosen it.
Serve warm as a topping or filling. Best enjoyed within a few hours.

Servings and timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Apple slices: Use slices instead of cubes for a pie-like texture.
Extra gooey: Add up to ⅓ cup brown sugar for a thicker caramel sauce.
Spiced twist: Add nutmeg, allspice, or cloves for more depth.
Sweetener swap: Use coconut sugar or maple syrup (less gooey but still delicious).
Citrus pop: Stir in a teaspoon of lemon juice or orange zest.
Vanilla note: Add a dash of vanilla extract after removing from heat.
Nutty addition: Sprinkle with toasted pecans or walnuts.
Savory pairing: Serve over baked sweet potatoes or with roasted root veggies.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store cooled caramelized apples in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days.
Reheating: Rewarm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for 30–60 seconds.
Freezer: Not recommended, as the texture of the apples may change when thawed.

FAQs

What type of apples should I use?

For sweeter results, try Gala, Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady. For a tart edge, use Granny Smith apples.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is optional. Leaving the skin on adds texture and saves time, but peeled apples cook down softer and more evenly.

Can I use maple syrup instead of brown sugar?

Yes, but maple syrup won’t create as thick or gooey of a caramel. It’s still delicious with a more natural sweetness.

How can I make them extra saucy?

Increase the brown sugar to ⅓ cup and cook slightly longer to develop a thicker caramel sauce.

Can I use this as a pie filling?

It’s best as a topping or mix-in, but could work in small tarts or galettes when thickened slightly more.

How long do caramelized apples last?

They’re best fresh but can be refrigerated for 2–3 days in an airtight container.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pan and stir often to ensure even cooking and caramelization.

What’s the best way to cut the apples?

Cut them into uniform cubes or slices about ½-inch thick to ensure even cooking.

Can I make this without cinnamon?

Yes, skip the cinnamon or use another spice like cardamom or nutmeg instead.

Are these apples good cold?

Yes, they can be enjoyed warm or chilled, depending on how you plan to serve them.

Conclusion

Caramelized apples are a sweet, spiced, and versatile topping that come together in minutes and transform any dish into something special. Whether you’re spooning them over pancakes, oatmeal, or ice cream, or using them to top cakes or cookies, this quick recipe is your shortcut to comfort and flavor—all with just a few ingredients and minimal effort.