If you’re craving a comforting, cozy treat that comes together in no time, the Quick Chopped Stovetop Cinnamon Apples Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful dish captures the essence of warm cinnamon-spiced apples, gently cooked to tender perfection right on your stovetop, making it a perfect snack or dessert anytime. The balance of buttery richness, fragrant vanilla, and a touch of sweetness brings out the natural goodness of the apples, delivering a mouthwatering experience with minimal fuss. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or just want a simple yet delicious way to enjoy apples, this recipe has got your back.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh apples, this recipe proves how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular. Each component is thoughtfully chosen to enhance flavor, texture, and that perfect cinnamon aroma we all love.
- 4 cups (500 grams) chopped apples: Use crisp, firm apples for the best texture; smaller, even cubes help them cook evenly.
- 3 tablespoons water: Helps create steam so the apples soften without sticking or burning.
- 1.5 tablespoons butter: Adds a luscious richness and helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- 1.5 tablespoons maple syrup: Offers natural sweetness with perfect depth and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and a subtle floral note that rounds out the dish.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: The star spice that gives this recipe its irresistible, classic flavor.
- 1/8 teaspoon sea salt: Balances sweetness and brightens all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Quick Chopped Stovetop Cinnamon Apples Recipe
Step 1: Chop the Apples
Start by chopping your apples into roughly 1/2 inch cubes. This size is ideal because it allows the apples to cook evenly and soften nicely without turning to mush. If you prefer chunkier pieces, feel free to make them bigger, but keeping them uniform helps with consistent cooking.
Step 2: Cook Apples with Water
Place the chopped apples in a 12-inch skillet, then pour in 3 tablespoons of water. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook over medium-high heat for about 4 to 5 minutes. This steaming process softens the apples gently while locking in moisture.
Step 3: Evaporate Excess Water
Remove the lid and continue cooking the apples uncovered for another 3 minutes. This step lets the water mostly evaporate and allows the edges of the apples to start caramelizing slightly, lending a lovely texture contrast.
Step 4: Add Butter and Coat Apples
Drop in the butter and toss it with the apples until everything is lightly coated and glossy. Cooking for another 2 minutes at this stage enhances richness and helps the apples absorb that buttery flavor.
Step 5: Stir in the Sweeteners and Spices
Add the maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sea salt. Stir everything well to combine and cook for an additional 2 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the apples are perfectly soft, tender, and bursting with warm, inviting aromas.
How to Serve Quick Chopped Stovetop Cinnamon Apples Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish even further, I love sprinkling an extra pinch of cinnamon on top, or a few crunchy granola clusters if you’re serving it over yogurt. These simple toppings add texture and make the presentation feel a bit extra special without much effort.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert, or alongside your morning oatmeal or pancakes to add a burst of flavor and warmth. It’s a versatile companion that can make many meals feel more festive.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try layering the stovetop cinnamon apples in parfait glasses with Greek yogurt and granola for a beautiful breakfast or snack. You can also stuff them into warm crepes or serve them as a topping on spiced pound cake or waffles—delicious and impressive!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from the Quick Chopped Stovetop Cinnamon Apples Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld beautifully, and you can enjoy them cold or reheated.
Freezing
These apples freeze well too! Let them cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen stovetop cinnamon apples will keep their flavor and texture for up to 2 months, making it easy to enjoy a quick warm treat anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the apples gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave them in short bursts, stirring occasionally. This prevents overcooking and preserves the tender texture and rich flavors that make this recipe so comforting.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While firmer apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best for texture, you can experiment with sweeter or softer apple varieties depending on your taste preferences.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan friendly.
Can I add other spices to the Quick Chopped Stovetop Cinnamon Apples Recipe?
Definitely! Nutmeg, allspice, or ginger make fantastic additions if you want to play around with subtle layers of warmth and complexity.
What’s the best way to chop the apples evenly?
Using a sharp knife or an apple slicer can help you achieve consistent pieces, which cook more uniformly. Try chopping into bite-sized cubes so they finish cooking at the same time.
How quickly can I make this dish from start to finish?
This recipe is truly quick, typically taking around 15 minutes, meaning you can have a warm, delicious treat ready even on the busiest days.
Final Thoughts
The Quick Chopped Stovetop Cinnamon Apples Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels cozy, comforting, and homemade in every bite, yet comes together with such ease you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. It’s perfect for sharing, for sneaking bites after a long day, or for brightening up any meal. I can’t recommend it enough—give it a go and let the simple joy of cinnamon-spiced apples brighten your kitchen and your mood!
Print
Quick Chopped Stovetop Cinnamon Apples Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Quick Chopped Stovetop Cinnamon Apples are a simple and comforting dish made by simmering chopped apples with butter, cinnamon, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Perfect as a warm breakfast topping or a healthy dessert, these tender, flavorful apples are ready in under 20 minutes and pair wonderfully with Greek yogurt or granola.
Ingredients
Apples
- 4 cups (500 grams) chopped apples
- 3 tablespoons water
Flavorings
- 1.5 tablespoons butter
- 1.5 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Chop the Apples: Chop the apples into 1/2 inch cubes. You can cut them bigger if you’d like; however, uniform smaller pieces help them cook evenly and soften properly.
- Cook with Water: In a 12-inch skillet, add the chopped apples and 3 tablespoons of water. Cover and cook over medium-high heat for 4 to 5 minutes to begin softening the apples.
- Uncover and Continue Cooking: Remove the lid and cook uncovered for an additional 3 minutes or until most of the water has evaporated and the apples are tender but still hold their shape.
- Add Butter and Toss: Add 1.5 tablespoons butter to the pan. Toss the apples gently to coat them in the melted butter, then cook for another 2 minutes to infuse flavor.
- Add Maple Syrup, Vanilla, Cinnamon, and Salt: Stir in 1.5 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/8 teaspoon sea salt. Cook, stirring frequently, for 2 to 5 minutes until the apples are soft and fully tender.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from heat and serve the cinnamon apples warm. They’re delicious on their own or topped over Greek yogurt with a sprinkle of cinnamon and granola for extra texture.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture.
- Adjust cinnamon quantity to taste for more or less spice.
- Maple syrup can be substituted with honey if preferred.
- For a vegan version, use a plant-based butter or omit the butter entirely.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
