If you’re looking for a unique and delicious twist on a classic treat, Chipotle Fried Apples are your new go-to recipe! It’s a game changer! Chipotle Fried Apples combines the warmth of cinnamon and sugar with a surprising kick of smoky chipotle for a flavor fusion you won’t forget.
If you’re looking for a unique and delicious twist on a classic treat, Chipotle Fried Apples are your new go-to recipe! It’s a game changer and an intoxicating vegetarian option! Chipotle Fried Apples combines the warmth of cinnamon and sugar with a surprising kick of smoky chipotle for a flavor fusion you won’t forget. Fresh apples are dusted with the perfect blend of cinnamon, sugar and then fried to golden, caramelized perfection in an oil blended with chipotle. The sweet and smoky heat enhances the natural sweetness of the apples, creating a delicious balance of flavors in every bite.
Whether served as a unique side dish or a tasty snack, these fried apples are irresistible. They pair beautifully with roasted chicken, turkey, pork, grilled cheese, waffles, pancakes and even ice cream. Best of all, they’re quick and easy to make, offering a fresh take on apples with a gourmet feel.
If you give your classic cinnamon apples recipe this fun twist, you’ll never look at cinnamon apples the same way again! Let’s dive into this simple yet irresistible recipe!
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Chipotle Fried Apples combines the warmth of cinnamon and sugar with a surprising kick of smoky chipotle for a flavor fusion you won’t forget. Fresh apples are dusted with the perfect blend of cinnamon, sugar and then fried to golden, caramelized perfection in an oil blended with chipotle.
Ingredients
Scale
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
2 washed granny smith apples
2 washed red delicious apples
2 washed honeycrisp apples
1 large lemon or 2 small lemons- juiced
4 tablespoons avocado oil
2 teaspoons canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
STEP 1: Prepare a Lemon Water Bath. Fill a large mixing bowl halfway with water. Juice the lemons and add both the juice and lemon halves into the water. Dice the washed, cored, unpeeled apples and place them into the lemon water to prevent browning.
STEP 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Coating. In a separate bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon until well combined.
STEP 3: Drain and Dry the Apples. Drain the apples from the lemon water and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
STEP 4: Cook the First Batch of Apples. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 teaspoon of chipotle to the oil. Toss half of the apples with half of the cinnamon sugar mixture until well coated. Add the coated apples to the skillet and cook, stirring often, until the coating is thick and caramelized. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the cooked apples into a bowl and set aside.
STEP 5: Cook the Second Batch of Apples. In the same skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 1 teaspoons of chipotle peppers. Toss the remaining apples with the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture. Add the coated apples to the skillet and cook, stirring often, until the coating is thick and caramelized.
STEP 6: Combine and Serve. Turn off the heat and add the previously cooked apples back into the skillet with the fresh batch. Add the salt and stir the apples together until well combined and evenly coated.
Notes
Customize the heat: Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers to suit your spice preference.
Apple variety: Choose crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture combinations
Pairings: These fried apples are perfect as a side dish for savory proteins such as roasted chicken, turkey, pork or even as a unique topping for grilled cheese, ice cream, pancakes and waffles!
Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: My preferred brand of chipotle in adobo sauce for this recipe is San Marcos. I put the entire can in a small blender cup and blend until smooth. I freeze leftover adobo sauce if I do not plan to quickly use it.
Adapted from another fantastic recipe at www.epicurious.com from Table Mountain Inn, this version has been tweaked with a few changes to the preparation, oil, and ingredient requirements to create a healthier and more flavorful dish. A big thank you to the original creators for the inspiration.
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:15 min
Method:fry
Cuisine:American, Southwest
Table of Contents
ENHANCING THE EXPERIENCE WITH INGREDIENTS
A Sweet and Smokey Treat: Fried Apples
There’s something magical about the combination of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and smoky chipotle. When I first experimented with this recipe, I knew I found something truly special. These fried apples offer the perfect balance of sweetness with a surprising kick of heat. Let me walk you through how I create this unique side dish that never fails to impress.
Why Chipotle and Cinnamon Work Together
At first glance, chipotle and cinnamon might seem like an odd pair, but trust me, they’re a match made in flavor heaven. The smoky undertones of chipotle complement the natural sweetness of apples, while cinnamon brings warmth and familiarity. Together, they create a complex, well-rounded taste that’s both comforting and exciting.
OUR PRODUCTS AND EQUIPMENT FOR YOUR CREATIVE KITCHEN
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There’s something magical about the combination of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and smoky chipotle. They’re perfect as a side dish or even a dessert, bringing a unique twist to the traditional fried apple recipe. These fried apples offer the perfect balance of sweetness with a surprising kick of heat. Let me walk you through how I create this unique side dish that never fails to impress.
STEP 1: Prepare a Lemon Water Bath.
Before we start cooking, we need to keep those apples looking fresh. The first step I always take is to prepare a lemon water bath. It’s super easy! Fill a large mixing bowl halfway with water and juice two lemons into the bowl. Don’t toss the lemon halves—throw them into the water too! This will prevent the apples from browning as we prep the rest of the ingredients.
Now, grab your washed, unpeeled apples and dice them into bite-sized pieces. To save time, you can use any of the choppers I’ve listed above! I own both and love how easy they make the prep process. For this recipe, I prefer the small dice blade, but honestly, either size will work beautifully. As you dice, drop the apple pieces into the lemon water to prevent them from browning. This little trick not only keeps the apples looking fresh but also adds a light, citrusy brightness to the final dish.
STEP 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Coating.
While the apples are soaking, let’s move on to the cinnamon sugar coating. In a separate bowl, mix your sugar and ground cinnamon until they’re well combined. This mixture is what’s going to give the apples that warm, sweet, and spicy. The key is to make sure the sugar and cinnamon are evenly blended for consistent flavor.
STEP 3: Drain and Dry the Apples.
Next, it’s time to drain and dry the apples. Remove the diced apples from the lemon water and place them on paper towels. Pat them dry to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial because you want the apples to be dry when they hit the skillet. If they’re too wet, the cinnamon sugar coating won’t stick as well, and the apples won’t caramelize properly.
STEP 4: Cook the First Batch of Apples.
Now the fun part—cooking! Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1-2 teaspoons of chipotle directly into the oil. The chipotle adds that smoky, spicy kick that makes this dish so special.
While the oil heats, toss half of the dried apples in half of the cinnamon sugar mixture, making sure each piece is well coated. Then, carefully add the coated apples to the skillet. Stir them often, allowing the coating to cook and caramelize around the apples. This takes about 5-7 minutes, and you’ll know they’re ready when the coating thickens and becomes golden brown.
Transfer the cooked apples to a bowl and set them aside while we prepare the next batch.
STEP 5: Cook the Second Batch of Apples.
In the same skillet, repeat the process with the remaining ingredients. Heat the last 2 tablespoons of oil and add another 1-2 teaspoons of chipotle. Toss the remaining apples with the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture and add them to the skillet. Just like the first batch, you’ll want to cook them until the coating is thick and caramelized, stirring often.
STEP 6: Combine and Serve.
Once the second batch of apples is perfectly cooked, turn off the heat and add the previously cooked apples back into the skillet. Now it’s time to add a pinch of salt. Stir everything together so that both batches are well combined and evenly coated with all that delicious cinnamon-chipotle goodness.
And just like that, you’re done! These delectable Fried Apples are ready to serve. Whether you enjoy them on their own, paired with pork, or even with a scoop of ice cream, they’re sure to be a hit.
DETERMINING THE RIGHT QUANTITY: HOW MUCH TO MAKE
When it comes to figuring out how much fried apples to make as a side dish, there are a few key things I like to keep in mind. First, the portion size. For most people, about ½ to ¾ cup of fried apples per person works perfectly as a side. This gives just the right amount without overwhelming the plate, especially if it’s served alongside other dishes.
Once I know the number of guests, I just multiply the portion size by the number of people I’m feeding. So, for example, if I’m serving 6 guests, I’d prepare around 3 to 4 ½ cups of fried apples in total. It’s a simple formula that helps me make sure I have enough to go around.
Of course, I also think about the type of event. For a casual dinner, people might eat less, so I lean toward the smaller portion of ½ cup per person. But if it’s a special occasion or a holiday meal where people tend to indulge, I go closer to ¾ cup per person or even a bit more if I know my guests love apples.
I also consider what else is on the menu. If I’m serving several sides, I can get away with making less since people will have plenty to choose from. But if the apples are one of the main side dishes, I like to prepare a little extra, just in case.
Lastly, I’m always happy to have leftovers, so I usually err on the side of making a bit more. Fried apples keep well in the fridge and reheat beautifully, so any extra never goes to waste.
By thinking through these factors, I can easily gauge how much to make without worrying about running short or having way too much. It’s all about finding that balance!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While I prefer a mix of apples you can use any variety you like. Sweeter apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji will give you a more dessert-like result, while tart apples add a nice contrast to the cinnamon and chipotle. Granny Smith apples provide a contrast of tartness. Feel free to mix and match!
How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
I always taste the first batch to determine the level of spice on the second. If you’re sensitive to heat or serving guests who prefer milder flavors, simply reduce the amount of chipotle used. Start with ¼ teaspoon and add more to taste as you cook. On the flip side, if you love extra spice, you can easily increase the chipotle or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Can I make the chipotle fried apples ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these apples ahead of time! Just cook them as instructed and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain that caramelized texture.
What dished pair well with these apples?
These apples are incredibly versatile! They make a fantastic side dish for pork chops or roasted chicken, adding a sweet and smoky contrast to savory meats. You can also serve them as a dessert with vanilla ice cream, or even as a topping for pancakes or waffles at brunch.
Can I omit the chipotle if I don’t like spice?
Yes, you can leave out the chipotle if you prefer a more traditional cinnamon-sugar flavor. The apples will still be deliciously caramelized and sweet, but without the smoky, spicy element. You could also substitute the chipotle with a little smoked paprika if you want to keep some smokiness without the heat.
How do you keep apples from browning?
To keep apples from browning, there are a few simple tricks that can make all the difference, and the good news is, most of them use ingredients you probably already have at home! One of the easiest methods is using lemon juice. Just squeeze a bit of fresh lemon, lime, or even orange juice over the apple slices. The citric acid acts like a shield against browning. If you’re worried about the apples tasting too sour, you can dilute the juice with water – a tablespoon of juice in a cup of water will do the trick without overpowering the flavor.
What type of cinnamon is recommended for this recipe?
For a dish like Bold Fried Apples, I’d recommend using Ceylon cinnamon or Saigon (Vietnamese) cinnamon, depending on the flavor profile you want. For additional details read our in depth article Discover 4 Types of Cinnamon
Both types work wonderfully in a recipe like this, but your choice will depend on whether you want a subtler or stronger cinnamon flavor.
What is the flavor of chipotle?
The flavor of chipotle is a combination of smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet notes. Chipotle peppers are ripened jalapeños that have been dried and smoked, giving them a distinct smoky taste. They retain the heat of jalapeños but with an added depth from the smoking process. Some describe the flavor as earthy with subtle hints of chocolate or fruitiness, depending on how they are prepared or used in dishes.
The spice level is moderate, with a warming heat that lingers but doesn’t overwhelm, making chipotle a popular ingredient in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine.
Can I use canned apples in this recipe?
I do not recommend canned or frozen apples for this recipe. Fresh apples are ideal because of their crisp texture,
Are there any substitutes for chipotle?
Yes, you can leave out the chipotle powder if you prefer a more traditional cinnamon-sugar flavor. The apples will still be deliciously caramelized and sweet, but without the smoky, spicy element. You could also substitute the chipotle with a little smoked paprika if you want to keep some smokiness without the heat.
What size do I cut the apples for this recipe?
When it comes to making Chipotle Fried Apples, I personally prefer to dice my apples instead of slicing them. While the size is really a matter of personal preference, it’s important to make sure your apples are cored and the cuts are uniform so they cook evenly and consistently.
For a side dish to pair with something like sliced pork or poultry, I usually go for a medium dice, around 1/2 inch. This size gives the apples just the right balance of texture and flavor, allowing them to hold their shape while soaking up all those delicious chipotle spices.
If you’re planning to use the apples as a topping or complement on a sandwich, I recommend going with a smaller dice. This allows the apples to blend into the sandwich better, adding a burst of smoky sweetness without overpowering the other ingredients. Whatever you choose, just remember that even cuts are the key to perfectly cooked apples!
Do I need to peel my apples?
When making Chipotle Fried Apples, whether to peel the apples or not depends on your preferred texture, but I personally prefer not peeling them! Keeping the peel on adds a bit more texture and helps the apples hold their shape as they cook, which can be a nice contrast to the soft, flavorful inside.
On the other hand, peeling the apples will give you a more tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. This can be perfect if you’re aiming for a smoother finish where the apples soak up all the smoky chipotle seasoning. However, if you cook them longer, they may start to break down and become similar to applesauce in consistency.
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