These Caramelized Apples are a simple and easy way to make the perfect topping or filling for any dessert. Spoon it over pancakes or waffles to make Breakfast even more special!
One thing to keep in mind is that caramelized apples are not caramel apples. I love them too but no these are cut up apples that are cooked over a low heat until they become soft and golden in a delicious sauce.
However, if you can’t finish your caramel apples before they expire, freezing is one option to ensure they aren’t wasted. To freeze caramel apples, ensure there’s as little air exposure as possible by placing each apple in a plastic bag with the air squeezed out before putting them in an airtight container.
What are the best apples to use
The best apples to use for this recipe are a firm apple such as Braeburn, Granny Smith, Fuji, Pink Lady, Gala or Honeycrisp. Most people prefer Granny Smith because they are tart, which pairs perfectly with the sweet buttery caramelized sauce. It’s not a good idea to use a softer apple because they will fall apart while cooking.
How to make them
In a medium size pot melt the butter, then add the water, sugar and chopped peeled apples.
Stir and cook for about 3 minutes over medium/high heat just until the sugar has melted, then lower the heat to medium/low and continue cooking and stirring often for about 8-10 minutes, add the cinnamon in the last couple of minutes. The apples should be tender and the sauce a golden brown colour.
Move to a clean glass jar, let cool or use warm. The longer it sits the thicker the sauce will become.
FREEZE DRIED CARAMEL APPLES
FAQ
How do you store caramel apples after making?
How long do caramelized apples last in the fridge?
Do you put caramel apples in the fridge or freezer?
How long can caramel apples be left out?
Can you put caramel apples in a freezer?
If you do not have a cooler that you can dedicate to the caramel apples, any insulating container will work fine. Your goal of this is to simulate the cold environment of the fridge, but not quite the dry environment of the freezer. Sarah is the founder of Baking Kneads, LLC, a blog sharing guides, tips, and recipes for those learning how to bake.
Can you freeze sliced apples?
Before freezing, soak the sliced apples in a lemon juice/water bath to keep them from browning. (In our tests, a salt water bath kept apples from browning longer than lemon water, but since you’re freezing these right away, a simple lemon juice bath works well too.) Pat the apples dry to avoid ice crystals from forming.
How do you keep apples from Browning before freezing?
Use lemon juice and water to keep the apples from browning. Before freezing, soak the sliced apples in a lemon juice/water bath to keep them from browning. (In our tests, a salt water bath kept apples from browning longer than lemon water, but since you’re freezing these right away, a simple lemon juice bath works well too.)
How long does it take to caramelize apples?
It usually takes 6-7 minutes, depending on the stove. Sprinkle the apple mixture with ground cinnamon and a pinch of fleur de sel. Remove the apples, deglaze the bottom of the pan with lemon juice, and pour over the apples. Serve caramelized apples hot, warm, or cold with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.