If you're looking for a quick and easy way to get that warm, cozy feeling of fall right in your kitchen, these Pan-Seared Glazed Apples are just the ticket. With a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, they're sure to become a new family favorite.
Apples are the star of this dish, offering a natural sweetness and slight tartness. Choose varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results. Unsalted butter ensures a rich, creamy base for cooking, while brown sugar adds depth and caramelization. Ground cinnamon and nutmeg infuse the apples with warm, spicy notes, and a touch of salt enhances all the flavors. A splash of vanilla extract brings a fragrant sweetness, and a hint of lemon juice brightens the overall flavor profile.
These glazed apples are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm over pancakes or waffles for a luxurious breakfast. Pair them with pork chops or roasted chicken for a sweet-savory dinner. For dessert, try them over vanilla ice cream or alongside a slice of pound cake.
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. You want it to just start bubbling before adding the apples, which means it's hot enough to begin softening them without burning.
Once the butter is ready, add the apple slices. Stir them gently so they get well-coated, then let them cook for about 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to make sure they start to soften nicely.
Next, sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt evenly over the apples. Stir everything together carefully to make sure those apples are evenly coated with the sugary goodness.
Now, let it all cook for another 5 to 7 minutes. You want the apples to become tender, and the sugar should turn into a lovely caramel glaze. Give it a gentle stir every now and then to prevent sticking.
Finally, stir in the vanilla extract and lemon juice. These last touches add a wonderful depth and brightness. Once mixed, take the skillet off the heat, and youβre done!