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Cinnamon Apple Simmer

This cinnamon apple simmer involves gently cooking sliced apples with warm spices, sugar, and a splash of liquid to create a fragrant, slightly thickened syrup. The apples become tender and fragrant, with a glossy appearance and aroma that fills the air. It’s a cozy, sweet, and spicy seasonal condiment or aroma enhancer.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine seasonal
Servings 4
Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large apples preferably a tart variety like Granny Smith or Fuji
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon adjust to taste
  • 2 tablespoons sugar white or brown sugar works
  • 1/2 cup water or apple juice for extra flavor
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional, brightens flavor

Instructions
 

  • Core the apples and slice them evenly into thin wedges to ensure they cook uniformly.
  • Add the sliced apples to a saucepan and pour in the water or apple juice, which will help the apples simmer and soften without sticking.
  • Sprinkle the ground cinnamon and sugar over the apples, distributing evenly to start developing the warm spice aroma.
  • Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, listening for soft bubbling and smelling the fragrant cinnamon wafting up.
  • Stir the apples occasionally with a wooden spoon, helping the sugar dissolve and coating each slice in the aromatic syrup.
  • Reduce the heat slightly once the apples start to break down and the liquid thickens to a syrupy consistency, about 15 minutes into cooking.
  • Add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavor and balance the sweetness as the apples become tender and glossy.
  • Continue simmering until the apples are soft but still hold their shape, and the syrup coats each piece beautifully.
  • Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit for a minute, allowing the flavors to meld and the syrup to thicken slightly off the stove.
  • Serve the cinnamon apples warm, spooned into bowls or used as a fragrant topping for other desserts or breakfast dishes.

Notes

You can customize this simmer by adding a pinch of cloves or a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth. For a thicker consistency, let it simmer a few more minutes or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.