Easy Cinnamon Apples with Butter and Brown Sugar
Tender apple slices caramelized in butter with brown sugar and cinnamon. Cornstarch thickens the natural juices into a glossy sauce. Ready in under 15 minutes, this simple stovetop dessert or side dish works warm or chilled.
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 pound apples, cored, peeled, and cut into 1/4 inch slices
- ¾ cup water, cold
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- 1
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- 2
Add apple slices and cook until tender, about 5 to 6 minutes.
- 3
While apples cook, whisk cornstarch and cold water together in a small bowl.
- 4
Pour cornstarch mixture into the skillet with the apples.
- 5
Add brown sugar and cinnamon, stirring to combine.
- 6
Bring to a boil and cook for 2 minutes until thickened.
- 7
Remove from heat and serve warm.
Tips
Slice apples uniformly so they cook evenly.
Use a mix of tart and sweet apple varieties for balanced flavor.
Good to Know
Refrigerate in a covered container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave.
Prepare and cook completely; stores chilled. Serve cold or reheated.
Serve warm. Pairs well with vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or pound cake.
Common Mistakes
Cut apples irregularly to avoid uneven cooking and texture.
Skip whisking cornstarch with cold water to avoid lumpy sauce.
Boil longer than 2 minutes to avoid overly thick, gluey texture.