There’s something almost magical about the way cinnamon and apples come together—like they were always meant to be. These Cinnamon-Dusted Apple Slices are my go-to when I want something sweet, wholesome, and ready in minutes. No fancy techniques, no long ingredient lists—just tender, spiced apples that taste like a hug in every bite. Whether you’re topping your morning oatmeal, serving them alongside a scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream, or just snacking straight from the bowl, this recipe is a celebration of simplicity done right.
Why This Recipe Works
- Effortless elegance: It’s the kind of dish that looks like you fussed, but really, it’s just apples, cinnamon, and a little love.
- Endlessly adaptable: Eat them warm, cold, solo, or paired with yogurt, cheese, or even pancakes.
- Naturally sweet: No need for refined sugar—the apples bring all the sweetness you need, with a little cinnamon to cozy things up.
A Few Reasons to Make This Tonight
- Healthy indulgence: Packed with fiber and vitamin C, it’s a treat you can feel good about.
- Kid-approved: Even the pickiest eaters won’t resist these cinnamon-kissed slices.
- Meal-prep friendly: Make a batch and enjoy them all week (if they last that long).
Essential Ingredients & Tools
Ingredients
- 3 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness, Granny Smith for a tart kick)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (keeps the apples bright and adds a zesty lift)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (the star of the show)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, but lovely for extra depth)
- Pinch of salt (trust me, it makes the flavors pop)
Tools You’ll Need
- A sharp knife or mandoline (for those perfect, even slices)
- A mixing bowl (to toss everything together)
- A skillet or baking sheet (if you want them warmed)
- A spatula or tongs (for gentle flipping)
Serves: 4 | Prep: 10 min | Cook: 5 min
How to Make Cinnamon-Dusted Apple Slices
- Prep the apples: Core them first—no one wants a surprise seed. Slice them about ¼-inch thick (thinner for softer bites, thicker for a little crunch). Leave the skin on for color and texture, or peel them for a smoother finish. Your call.
- Brighten with lemon juice: Toss the slices in 1 tbsp lemon juice—it’s like a little insurance policy against browning, plus it adds a fresh tang. Get in there with your hands to make sure every slice gets some love.
- Spice it up: Sprinkle on the 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp honey (if using), and that pinch of salt. Toss again. Let it sit for 5 minutes so the flavors can mingle—think of it as letting the apples marinate in cozy goodness.
- Serve or warm: Eat them straight from the bowl for a crisp, refreshing bite. Or, for a deeper flavor, warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges just start to curl and the kitchen smells like heaven.
Pro Technique
Caramelization Magic
If you’re warming them, don’t crowd the pan. Let the slices sit in a single layer so they caramelize properly—those golden-brown spots are where the flavor lives. If the pan gets dry, a splash of apple juice or water will loosen up all those tasty bits.
Texture Matters
The perfect slice is tender but still has a little backbone. Cook just until they yield to a gentle press but don’t turn to mush. A pat of butter or coconut oil in the last 30 seconds adds a silky richness that’s downright irresistible.
Chef’s Wisdom
Not all apples are created equal. Honeycrisp and Fuji are my favorites here—sweet, firm, and perfect for warming. Granny Smith brings a tart contrast, but it needs a little more time to soften. For the best of both worlds, mix sweet and tart varieties. And here’s a little secret: smell the stem end. A fragrant apple is a ripe apple.
Perfect Pairings
Complementary Dishes
- Vanilla Bean Yogurt: The cool creaminess contrasts with the warm spiced apples, while the vanilla echoes their natural sweetness. Opt for Greek yogurt for extra protein.
- Oatmeal with Almond Butter: Stir the apple slices into steaming oatmeal, then swirl with almond butter for a hearty breakfast. The nutty richness balances the fruit’s brightness.
Drinks
- Sparkling Apple Cider: The effervescence cleanses the palate, while the apple flavor doubles down on the dessert’s theme. Chill well for maximum refreshment.
- Earl Grey Tea: The bergamot citrus notes in the tea mirror the lemon juice in the recipe, creating a harmonious sip.
Something Sweet
- Dark Chocolate Shavings: A few curls of 70% dark chocolate add bitterness to counter the sweet apples, plus a luxurious melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Ginger Snap Cookies: Crush them over the top for a spicy crunch that plays off the cinnamon’s warmth.
Storage & Freshness Guide
Keep them in an airtight container with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. They’ll last about 24 hours, but let’s be honest—they’ll probably disappear before then. To refresh, warm them gently in a skillet with a splash of water.
Nutrition Profile
Light, wholesome, and satisfying:
- Calories: 70
- Fat: 0g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
Ingredient Variations and Their Impact
- Spiced Pears: Swap apples for Bartlett pears and add a pinch of cardamom.
- Tropical Twist: Use pineapple rings and top with toasted coconut.
- Savory-Sweet: Try smoked paprika instead of cinnamon and serve with aged Gouda.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in toasted walnuts and drizzle with browned butter.
- Vanilla Dream: Mix in vanilla bean paste and serve with crème fraîche.
Cinnamon-Dusted Apple Slices: The Cozy, Effortless Dessert You’ll Make on Repeat
Whip up tender, spiced Cinnamon-Dusted Apple Slices in minutes! Perfect for snacking, oatmeal, or dessert. Get this simple, healthy recipe now!
Ingredients
Main
-
3 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith)
-
1 tbsp lemon juice
-
1 tsp ground cinnamon
-
1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
-
Pinch salt
Instructions
-
Core the apples and slice them ¼-inch thick.01
-
Toss the slices with 1 tbsp lemon juice in a mixing bowl.02
-
Sprinkle with 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp honey (if using), and a pinch of salt. Toss to coat.03
-
Serve fresh or warm in a skillet for 2–3 minutes until edges curl.04
