Spiced Apple Rings – A Sweet and Tangy Cinnamon Treat with a Hint of Spice

These Spiced Apple Rings are a nostalgic and flavorful treat that’s both visually stunning and deliciously spiced. Made by simmering fresh apple rings in a sweet and spicy cinnamon syrup, these vibrant red apple rings have just the right amount of warmth from cinnamon and optional chile heat. Perfect for serving as a side dish, a dessert topping, or a sweet snack, they’re a festive addition to any meal!

Scroll down for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Spiced Apple Rings

Spiced Apple Rings bring back memories of classic holiday side dishes, adding a splash of color and a burst of cinnamon flavor to any meal. These rings are a blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes, balanced by the natural tartness of apples. The vibrant red color comes from cinnamon candies, giving the apples both their signature look and intense cinnamon flavor. They’re as fun to make as they are to eat!

Why These Spiced Apple Rings Are Perfect for Any Occasion

These rings are versatile, working well as a side dish, dessert garnish, or unique topping for breakfast dishes. The tender apple rings soak up the spiced syrup, making them flavorful and aromatic. Plus, they’re easy to make, can be prepared ahead, and look beautiful on the table. Their bright red color and festive flavor make them a fantastic addition to any holiday spread or a cozy winter meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 0g
• Sodium: 10mg
• Fiber: 2g

Each serving is a tasty treat, full of warm cinnamon flavor and tender apples, perfect as a guilt-free snack or holiday dish.

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Spiced Apple Rings are wonderful on their own but also pair well with roast meats, pork dishes, or as a topping for vanilla ice cream or oatmeal. For a fun twist, use them as a garnish for holiday cocktails. Their sweet and spiced flavor complements both savory and sweet dishes, making them a versatile addition to any meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover apple rings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will deepen as they sit, making them even tastier. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave if desired, or serve cold for a refreshing treat.

Fun Fact: Why Cinnamon and Apples Are a Perfect Match

The pairing of cinnamon and apples is a classic for a reason. Cinnamon enhances the natural sweetness of apples, while its warm, spicy notes add depth and complexity. This combination is especially comforting in the fall and winter months, as it brings out the cozy, festive flavors of the season.

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Cooking Tips

• Use Firm Apples: Choose a firm-fleshed apple variety that holds its shape well, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, skip the guajillo chile, or add more if you like extra heat.
• Prevent Browning: Keep the apple slices in lemon water as you work to prevent browning.

Optional Variations

• Maple Spice: Add a splash of maple syrup to the syrup mixture for a hint of maple flavor.
• Star Anise Twist: For an additional layer of flavor, add a star anise to the simmering syrup along with the cinnamon sticks and cloves.
• Ginger Heat: Substitute the guajillo chile with a few slices of fresh ginger for a different type of spicy warmth.

Spiced Apple Rings Recipe

Ingredients

• ¼ cup lemon juice (to prevent browning)
• 2 pounds firm apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 3 cups water, divided (more if needed)
• 2 cups cinnamon candy (such as Red Hots or Cinnamon Imperials)
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 guajillo chile, optional (for a bit of heat)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Lemon Water: In a large bowl, combine the lemon juice with 2 cups of water. Peel and core the apples, then slice them into ½-inch thick rings. Drop each apple ring into the lemon water as you go to prevent browning.
2. Make the Cinnamon Syrup: In a medium saucepan, heat ½ cup of the remaining water with the cinnamon candies over medium heat, stirring frequently until the candies are completely melted. Add more water as needed to keep the syrup from getting too thick.
3. Add Spices: To the cinnamon syrup, add the guajillo chile (if using), whole cloves, and cinnamon sticks. Stir to combine and let the spices infuse into the syrup.
4. Prepare the Apple Rings: Drain the apple rings from the lemon water and pat them dry with paper towels. Gently stir them into the hot cinnamon syrup, ensuring they are coated evenly.
5. Cook the Apple Rings: Cover the saucepan and let the apple rings simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes or until the apples are tender but still hold their shape.
6. Cool and Store: Transfer the cooked apple rings to a storage container, pouring the remaining syrup over them. Remove the cloves, cinnamon sticks, and guajillo chile. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight (or at least 8 hours) to let the flavors meld.
7. Serve: Serve the apple rings chilled or at room temperature. They can be used as a side dish, dessert topping, or festive garnish.

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These Spiced Apple Rings are a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy treat that brings the flavors of cinnamon and apple together in a beautiful, vibrant dish. Perfect for any fall or winter meal, they’re sure to impress both in taste and appearance. Enjoy!