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Easy Sauteed Cinnamon Apples

Sauteed Cinnamon Apples taste just like the filling inside a fresh Apple Pie. This sauteed apples recipe is versatile and takes about 10 minutes on the stove to make the perfect topping for breakfast or dessert or to eat by itself as a delicious snack. This recipe is one of the best ways to use up a weekend apple haul.

Sauteed cinnamon apples in a large pot with a wooden spoon.

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As soon as Fall is here, we love using apples in all kinds of recipes, from Apple Crisp to Apple Fritters and, of course, Applesauce. If you are a fan of apple recipes then these Sauteed Apples are a must-try!

Sauteed Apples Recipe

Every year when the apple orchards open, one of my favorite ways to use our harvest is by making a pot of these sauteed cinnamon apples. Fresh apples are peeled, sliced, and cooked with a bit of butter and spices, and then as they simmer on your stove they’ll make your kitchen smell like Apple Cider.

Once cooked these apples keep well in the fridge and can be used in so many ways. You can spoon them on top of a bowl of Overnight Oats, or enjoy them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. We love to serve Sauteed Cinnamon Apples over Apple Pancakes or Buttermilk Pancakes in the morning. I have also been known to simply eat a small bowl of these on their own – they’re so good and satisfy any sweet tooth cravings while still being a relatively healthy snack.

Sautéed cinnamon apples in a mason jar with serving spoon

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Apples Recipe:

  • Quick – 10 minutes is all you need to sauté fresh apples on the stovetop. If you use an apple peeler, the prep is even faster.
  • Versatile – You’ll never run out of ways to use these warm cinnamon apples. See the section below for serving suggestions.
  • Sweetened with Honey – We use honey to sweeten the apples, although you can substitute brown sugar and add it to taste.
  • Make-ahead – this recipe does re-heat well if you have leftovers or want to make a double batch to enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredients for Sauteed Apples

Here’s what you’ll need to make the best sautéd cinnamon apples. Be sure to scroll to the recipe card for the full details.

  • Butter – I use unsalted as I like to have better control over the saltiness of the recipe.
  • Granny Smith Apples – Peel and core your apples (see our speedy tip below for prepping apples), then cut them into slices about ¼-inch thick before you start.
  • Cornstarch – You’ll dissolve cornstarch in a bit of water for a slurry, in order to thicken the juices released from the apples.
  • Honey – Add it to taste to sweeten the apples. You can also use brown sugar.
  • Cinnamon – Ground cinnamon is the perfect complement to these buttery sauteed apples.
Fruit topping ingredients including Granny Smith, cornstarch, butter, cinnamon, honey and water

What are the Best Apples for Cinnamon Apples?

Granny Smith apples are the best apples for sauteeing apples, but any crisp-tart apples, like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady, are best for frying and sautéing because they have a great taste and don’t become mush when cooked. You can use any apples you have on hand, but just adjust the honey to taste for sweeter varieties.

How to Make Cinnamon Apples

Here’s how to saute these spiced apples to have them warm and ready in just a few quick steps:

  1. Melt Butter in a Dutch oven or deep sauté pan on the stovetop (or use a skillet with a lid).
  2. Add the Apples and stir to coat. Cook with the lid on for 6-8 minutes to soften them up, stirring occasionally.
  3. Make a Slurry – Whisk together cornstarch and water, then add the slurry to the apples. Stir in honey and cinnamon.
  4. Cook – Simmer to thicken for 2-3 minutes more, until the apples are fork-tender.
Photo collage showing the process for sauteeing apples.

Pro Tip:

If you have more than 2 lbs of apples, feel free to scale up the recipe if you’d like to have extra cinnamon apples to freeze and store.

What is the Best Way to Peel Apples?

My favorite way to peel apples is to use this handy apple peeling tool that cores, peels, and slices each apple at the same time. It makes this Sauteed Cinnamon Apples recipe even faster!

How To Use an Apple Peeler: Basically, you pop the apple onto one end of the tool, then spin the handle on the other end of the tool. As you turn the handle the tool will peel the apple, core it, and slice it into a ribbon.

It’s pretty neat and definitely makes processing even a large number of apples a breeze, but if you don’t have a tool like this, the next best option is a vegetable peeler or paring knife.

A picture of a Granny Smith being peeled on my favorite peeler

How to Serve Cinnamon Apples

We love any excuse to serve these sauteed apples, from breakfast to dessert and even dinner. Try these easy serving suggestions:

Sauteed cinnamon apples in a large pot with a wooden spoon.

Make-Ahead

Here’s how to easily store and reheat your cinnamon apples to eat throughout the week

  • To Refrigerate: Portion the apples into mason jars or another airtight container, and store them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Enjoy sauteed apples cold or reheated.
  • To Reheat: Warm sauteed apples in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can add in a splash of water or apple juice to loosen up the sauce if needed.

Can I Freeze Sauteed Apples?

While they won’t have the exact same freshly-made texture, sauteed cinnamon apples can be stored frozen for up to 3 months (or longer in a deep freezer). Be sure to freeze them airtight, in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. Thaw the apples in the fridge before serving and/or reheating.

cinnamon apples stored in a mason jar

Warm, spiced sauteed apples are the best fall comfort food and can be made in just 15 minutes! Pair this cinnamon apples recipe with your favorite breakfast and dinner dishes–the options are endless! I’d love to hear your serving suggestions in the comments.

More Easy Apple Recipes

If you love these sauteed cinnamon apples, then you won’t want to miss these other cozy apple recipes.

Sauteed Cinnamon Apples Recipe

5 from 24 votes
Author: Natasha Kravchuk
Sauteed cinnamon apples in a large pot with a wooden spoon.
This quick sauteed cinnamon apples recipe tastes just like fresh apple pie filling. It's so simple to make with just a pot bubbling away on the stove, and it's such a versatile recipe since it's perfect as a topping for breakfast or dessert, a side with dinner, or even topped with whipped cream as a quick snack.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients 

Servings: 8 servings as a topping (makes 3-4 cups)
  • 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 lbs Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced 1/4”-thick (4 large or 6 medium apples)
  • 1/3 cup water
  • 2 tsp cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup honey, or brown sugar, or added to taste (use 2 Tbsp for sweeter apples)
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Instructions

  • Place butter in a deep sauté pan or dutch oven and melt over medium heat.
  • Stir in sliced apples, cover, and cook, stirring occasionally until softened (6-8 minutes).
  • In a separate bowl, stir together 1/3 cup cold water and cornstarch until dissolved into a slurry.
  • Add the cornstarch slurry to the apples along with honey and cinnamon.
  • Stir to combine then return to a light boil and continue to simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is thickened and apples are tender.

Notes

*Any crisp variety of apples will work, so you can use what you have on hand, but you may need to adjust the amount of honey for sweeter varieties.
*Store apples in an airtight container or mason jar in the fridge for up to 5 days. Free in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Per Serving

118kcal Calories25g Carbs0.4g Protein3g Fat2g Saturated Fat0.2g Polyunsaturated Fat1g Monounsaturated Fat0.1g Trans Fat8mg Cholesterol2mg Sodium128mg Potassium3g Fiber20g Sugar149IU Vitamin A5mg Vitamin C10mg Calcium0.2mg Iron
Nutrition Facts
Sauteed Cinnamon Apples Recipe
Amount per Serving
Calories
118
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
3
g
5
%
Saturated Fat
 
2
g
13
%
Trans Fat
 
0.1
g
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
0.2
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
1
g
Cholesterol
 
8
mg
3
%
Sodium
 
2
mg
0
%
Potassium
 
128
mg
4
%
Carbohydrates
 
25
g
8
%
Fiber
 
3
g
13
%
Sugar
 
20
g
22
%
Protein
 
0.4
g
1
%
Vitamin A
 
149
IU
3
%
Vitamin C
 
5
mg
6
%
Calcium
 
10
mg
1
%
Iron
 
0.2
mg
1
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cinnamon apples, cinnamon apples recipe, sauteed apples
Skill Level: Easy
Cost to Make: $
Calories: 118
Natasha's Kitchen Cookbook

Natasha Kravchuk

Welcome to my kitchen! I am Natasha, the creator behind Natasha's Kitchen (established in 2009), and I share family-friendly, authentic recipes. I am a New York Times Best-Selling cookbook author and a trusted video personality in the culinary world. My husband, Vadim, and I run this blog together, ensuring every recipe we share is thoroughly tested and approved. Our mission is to provide you with delicious, reliable recipes you can count on. Thanks for stopping by! I am so happy you are here.

Read more posts by Natasha

5 from 24 votes (14 ratings without comment)

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Recipe Rating




Comments

  • joanne knight
    August 18, 2024

    Yuuuummy. Thank you. I’ve never thought to do apples this way. I’ve always just stewed them. This way seems more flavourful

    Reply

  • gloria
    August 17, 2024

    Can this be made as a filling for apple pie, or would it be too liquid?

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      August 18, 2024

      Yes that will work

      Reply

  • Her
    June 24, 2024

    Can i leave the butter out? I dont have any at the moment. Made it before with butter and it my baby likes em.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      June 24, 2024

      I have not made this without butter but I think it could work.

      Reply

  • arleen a giarla
    August 4, 2023

    what is the best way to store and for how long. Can you freeze as well

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      August 4, 2023

      Hi Arleen. See my notes above for instructions on freezing/refrigerating.

      Reply

  • Sharyn
    December 6, 2022

    Cinnamon, Cinnamon my favorite seasoning. I lcook with cinnamon every chance I get. In fact, my nonna always put cinnamon in her spaghetti sauce. I would like to know if you have a recipe for Sicilian cinnamon Pudding.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      December 6, 2022

      Hi Sharyn! Cinnamon is quite delicious! I do not have a recipe for the pudding.

      Reply

  • Connie
    November 14, 2022

    Very good! I left the skin on the apples just because we like it and also adds a little color. With some whipped cream and a sprinkling of cinnamon, I served this as a dessert. Yum! Thanks Natasha for a simple but tasty recipe!

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      November 14, 2022

      You’re welcome, Connie! I’m so glad you loved it.

      Reply

  • Doris
    November 6, 2022

    i have always tried to avoid cooking, but your videos are so much fun and easy to follow. I have been trying several and they turn out great. I do enjoy your tips too.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      November 6, 2022

      That makes me happy! Great job and I hope you’ll love the recipes that you will try.

      Reply

  • Sarah Bender
    October 27, 2022

    Delicious! These apples turned out so good! The perfect topping to my waffles this morning. You are my go-to for recipes…I have never followed a recipe of your that didn’t turn out or that I didn’t like. Keep it up!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 27, 2022

      That’s just awesome! Thank you for sharing your wonderful review, Sarah!

      Reply

  • Elaine Lilli
    October 27, 2022

    I always thought cornstarch separated when frozen I keep skins on for nutrients

    Reply

  • Judy
    October 20, 2022

    This recipe is wonderful! I did add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla to the recipe. Super delicious on oatmeal, too!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      October 20, 2022

      Thank you, Judy. Great to hear that you enjoyed this recipe!

      Reply

  • Karen Loeffler-Quintieri
    October 14, 2022

    Question:
    This was easy and wonderful!! Made these quickly for waffles. Yum!!
    Have you ever tried canning these? LOL My freezer is full of salmon, moose, and halibut. I was wondering how long etc.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 14, 2022

      Hi Karen! Glad you loved it! I have not tried to can it.

      Reply

  • Matt G
    October 14, 2022

    I made this evening and WOW! was it delicious. Much better flavor than when I just make apple sauce. Thank you.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 14, 2022

      You’re welcome! I’m so happy you enjoyed it, Matt!

      Reply

  • Paula K
    October 13, 2022

    Delicious! And my house smells amazing. I topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 13, 2022

      Yum! That sounds amazing, Paula! Thank you so much for sharing that with me.

      Reply

  • Julia
    October 13, 2022

    I make these apples every year! So delicious and super easy to make! Thanks for posting!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 13, 2022

      You’re welcome! I’m so happy you enjoyed it, Julia!

      Reply

  • Ann
    October 12, 2022

    How can I store the sauteed apple and how long can it store for am from jamaica love all your recipes thanks for sharing your recipes with the world

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 12, 2022

      Thank you, Ann! So glad you love my recipes.
      See my notes above for refrigeration/freezing instructions. 🙂

      Reply

  • Judy Richer
    October 12, 2022

    Is it possible to can the cinnamon apples rather than freeze them?

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 12, 2022

      Hi Judy! I have not tried canning these to advise. Let us know if you experiment.

      Reply

      • Judy Richer
        October 17, 2022

        I did can a few jars and they tasted fine. They were however, very soft and I used them for apple cakes etc. rather than a pie.

        Reply

    • Karen Loeffler-Quintieri
      October 14, 2022

      Did you try canning? I asked her the same question. I was thinking the same but didn’t see your post.

      Reply

  • June Holley
    October 12, 2022

    Made this and very good. I used granny smith, apple crisp and fugi. Love it with ice cream and have put it on toast.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 12, 2022

      Yum! Great combinations, June! Thank you for the review.

      Reply

    • Evelyn Eyan
      October 17, 2022

      Hi Natasha, thanks for the apple recipe. Made the easy Sauteed Apple. It’s lovely. Going to use it for your Apple turn over recipe.

      Reply

      • Natashas Kitchen
        October 17, 2022

        I’m so glad you loved it, Evelyn!

        Reply

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