There’s something truly magical about the scent of spiced apples wafting through the kitchen, evoking warm memories of crisp autumn days and cozy gatherings. Old fashioned spiced apple rings are a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of apples with a blend of aromatic spices.
This recipe is a nostalgic nod to simpler times, capturing the essence of homemade goodness and comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a charming snack, a unique addition to your dessert table, or a thoughtful gift, these spiced apple rings are sure to impress.
Easy to prepare and wonderfully flavorful, they bring a rustic charm to any occasion.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through every step to create perfectly spiced apple rings that are tender, flavorful, and beautifully fragrant. Get ready to fill your home with the inviting aroma of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg as you whip up this timeless classic.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This old fashioned spiced apple rings recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. It takes just a handful of pantry staples and fresh apples to create a snack or dessert that feels special yet is effortless to make.
The spices used not only enhance the natural apple taste but also add a cozy warmth, making it ideal for chilly days or festive occasions.
The texture of the apple rings is just right — soft but not mushy, with a slight chewiness that makes them irresistibly good. Plus, they store well, so you can prepare a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week or share with friends and family.
For those who love homemade treats with a touch of nostalgia, this recipe hits all the right notes.
If you enjoy this, be sure to check out other delicious recipes like Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide, Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals, and Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.
Ingredients
- 4 large apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for balance of tart and sweet)
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cinnamon sticks or 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 4 whole cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- Optional: 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/4 cup brown sugar (for sprinkling)
Equipment
- Sharp paring knife or apple corer
- Large saucepan
- Cutting board
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Slotted spoon
- Cooling rack
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl (optional, for sugar coating)
Instructions
- Prepare the apples: Wash and dry your apples thoroughly. Using a sharp paring knife or an apple corer, carefully remove the cores. Slice the apples into uniform rings about 1/4 inch thick. Uniform thickness ensures even cooking.
- Make the spiced syrup: In a large saucepan, combine the water, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon sticks (or ground cinnamon), cloves, nutmeg, and allspice. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat while stirring to dissolve the sugar.
- Simmer the apple rings: Reduce the heat to low and carefully add the apple rings to the spiced syrup. Let them simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the apples are tender but still hold their shape.
- Remove and drain: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked apple rings to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a cooling rack. Allow excess syrup to drip off.
- Optional sugar coating: If desired, toss the warm apple rings in a bowl with brown sugar to give them a sweet, slightly crunchy coating. This not only adds texture but also a deeper caramelized flavor.
- Cool and serve: Let the apple rings cool completely to room temperature. They can be enjoyed immediately or refrigerated for up to a week in an airtight container.
- Bonus step – enhance flavor: For an extra layer of warmth, drizzle the cooled apple rings with a little vanilla extract or sprinkle some extra cinnamon before serving.
Tips & Variations
“For the best texture, avoid overcooking the apples. They should be tender but not mushy.
Also, using a mix of tart and sweet apples adds a delicious complexity to the flavor.”
- Apple Variety: Try using Pink Lady or Fuji apples for a sweeter variation.
- Spice Mix: Feel free to experiment by adding cardamom or star anise for a unique twist.
- Dried Apple Rings: For a chewy snack, dry the spiced apple rings in a low oven (around 200°F) for 2-3 hours until leathery.
- Serving Warm: Reheat gently in a microwave or skillet before serving for a comforting treat.
- Alcohol Infusion: Add a splash of apple brandy or bourbon to the syrup for adult-friendly flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (2 apple rings) |
---|---|
Calories | 80 |
Carbohydrates | 21g |
Fiber | 2g |
Sugars | 17g |
Protein | 0.3g |
Fat | 0g |
Vitamin C | 4% DV |
Calcium | 1% DV |
Iron | 1% DV |
Serving Suggestions
These old fashioned spiced apple rings are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them as a standalone snack or add them to your breakfast plate alongside oatmeal or yogurt for a naturally sweet and spiced boost.
For a decadent dessert, serve warm spiced apple rings with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with caramel sauce. They also pair beautifully with sharp cheddar cheese for a unique flavor combination that surprises and delights.
Consider adding these apple rings as a charming garnish for holiday drinks like hot cider or mulled wine. Their aroma and appearance will add a festive touch to any gathering.
Conclusion
Old fashioned spiced apple rings are a timeless treat that effortlessly blends the natural sweetness of apples with the comforting warmth of traditional spices. This recipe is perfect for anyone who appreciates simple, wholesome cooking that evokes memories of cozy fall days and festive celebrations.
With easy-to-follow steps and pantry-friendly ingredients, you can create a delicious snack or dessert that will impress friends and family alike.
Whether you’re making these apple rings to enjoy yourself or to gift to loved ones, their delightful flavor and inviting aroma make them a perfect choice. Don’t forget to explore other wholesome and tasty recipes on our site such as Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food and 400 Calorie Vegetarian Dinner Recipe Ideas for Healthy Meals for more inspiration.
Happy cooking and enjoy the cozy flavors of this old fashioned favorite!
📖 Recipe Card: Old Fashioned Spiced Apple Rings
Description: A classic treat featuring tender apple rings soaked in warm spices and lightly baked to perfection. Perfect as a nostalgic dessert or a cozy snack.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 large apples, peeled and sliced into 1/2 inch rings
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- Brush apple rings with lemon juice and melted butter.
- Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the apple rings.
- Arrange apple rings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until apples are tender but hold shape.
- Remove from oven and drizzle with vanilla extract before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 0.3 g | Fat: 4.5 g | Carbs: 22 g
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