This recipe for easy Skillet Cinnamon Apples is healthy, simple and easy to make directly in a skillet on the stovetop. Enjoy these cinnamon apples on their own or serve them up with some ice cream, yogurt or however you like!

cinnamon apples in a small bowl with a spoon

Healthy Cinnamon Apples

Apple season is officially here!

And while I love getting into delicious and fun apple recipes like Apple Pie Bars and Apple Chia Pudding, sometimes it’s nice to go back to basics with a classic apple recipe that is a MUST for Fall.

That’s where these simple healthy cinnamon apples come in!

This is a tried and true cinnamon apple recipe that is made directly in a skillet on the stovetop and is ready in under 20 minutes. This recipe is one of my favourites to make in the Fall because it can be used in so many different ways and is packed with the perfect combination of flavours.

Cinnamon apples are delicious on their own, but also make a great addition to eat with ice cream, yogurt, chia pudding, granola or even on a bowl of oatmeal.

Why you’ll love this recipe

  • Easy and simple. This is an easy cinnamon apple recipe that can be made directly in one skillet and comes together in under 20 minutes.
  • Healthy ingredients. This recipe is made with coconut sugar and a small amount of butter or coconut oil for a healthier version.
  • Can be used in many ways. Get creative with how you like to use your cinnamon apples! Enjoy them with breakfast, a snack or dessert.

The best kinds of apples to use

The best types of apples to use when it comes to cooked/baked apples are apples that won’t completely fall apart and become mushy when cooked. You want to use a type of apple that will hold its shape as well as some texture. Here are the best types of apples to use.

  • Honeycrisp apples
  • Granny smith apples
  • Braeburn apples
  • Golden delicious apples
  • Cortland apples
  • Gala apples
  • Pink lady apples
  • Jonagold apples

If you can’t find any of these types of apples you can definitely use any kind of apple you have on hand. Just keep in mind you may end up with a softer texture.

Cinnamon Apple ingredients

ingredients to make cinnamon apples
  • Apples: the star ingredient! You’ll find a list of suggested apples above for the best texture, but ultimately you can make this recipe with any type of apple.
  • Butter: for a dairy-free version, use coconut oil.
  • Coconut sugar: coconut sugar has more vitamins and minerals than white sugar, and is also less likely to spike your blood sugar. (which can make you feel that “sugar crash.”)
  • Cinnamon: the star ingredient of cinnamon apples! If you love cinnamon you can always add an extra 1/2 teaspoon.

How to make stovetop cinnamon apples

Step 1

Peel, core and slice the apples. You can cut up the apples any way you like depending on your personal preference. (If you prefer the apples cut into small cubes you can do that!)

sliced apples in a clear bowl

Step 2

Add the butter or coconut oil to a skillet on medium-high heat. Let the butter melt completely until it starts to bubble slightly.

butter in a white pan

Step 3

Add the apples, coconut sugar and cinnamon to the pan and stir everything together. Let the apples cook for about 2 minutes.

sliced apples with coconut sugar in a white pan

Step 4

Lower the heat to medium-low, then cover and let the apples simmer for about 10 minutes until the apples are tender. They should be soft and sticky like this when they’re done.

cinnamon apples in a white pan

How to serve cinnamon apples

There are so many different ways you can serve and enjoy cinnamon apples. While they are definitely delicious on their own in a bowl, they also work great as a topping. Here are some ways to serve them.

  • With vanilla ice cream
  • With Greek yogurt
  • On oatmeal
  • With chia pudding
  • With granola
  • On toast
  • On pancakes
  • On waffles

How to store

Store any leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Cinnamon apples can also be frozen. To freeze them let cool completely then transfer to an airtight container and place in the freezer for up to 2 months. Let thaw on the countertop.

Keep in mind that if you freeze the cinnamon apples that once you defrost them they will have a softer and slightly mushier texture than before being frozen.

Expert tips for making cinnamon apples

  • Use the right apples. For the best texture, use apples with a firm and crisp texture such as granny smith, Cortland or honey crisp. All apples will work in this recipe, just keep in mind an apple with a softer texture will create mushier cooked apples.
  • Cut the apples into the same-size pieces. This will ensure that all the apples cook evenly and you don’t end up with some pieces of apple that are still hard.
  • Add more cinnamon if desired. While some people like a light cinnamon taste, others may prefer a stronger cinnamon taste. If that’s you, go ahead and add some more cinnamon to the apples!

Frequently asked questions

cIs putting cinnamon on apples good for you?

Both apples and cinnamon are packed with health benefits. Combining these two ingredients together not only tastes great but is also good for you.

How many carbs are in cinnamon apples?

Each serving of cinnamon apples has 156 calories and 35 grams of carbs. Keep in mind that the majority of these carbs come directly from apples.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes. If you want to make this recipe vegan just swap out the butter for coconut oil or for vegan butter.

Can I use brown sugar instead of coconut sugar?

Yes of course! Coconut sugar is a type of sugar that is more nutritious than brown sugar so it’s used in this recipe to make it *slightly* healthier, but brown sugar works great too!

cinnamon apples in a pan with a wood spoon

More apple recipes to try

If you tried these Cinnamon Apples or any other recipe on the blog let me know how you liked it by leaving a comment/rating below! Be sure to follow along on Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook for even more deliciousness!

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cinnamon apples in a small bowl with a spoon

Easy Cinnamon Apples

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  • Author: Jessica Hoffman
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free
Print Recipe

Description

These easy cinnamon apples are healthy and perfect to enjoy for dessert or a snack. 

Ingredients

Scale

Instructions

  1. Peel and slice the apples. You can cut the apples into slices, or if you prefer smaller pieces you can cut them into cubes. 
  2. Heat the butter in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Add the sliced apples, coconut sugar and cinnamon and mix everything together for 2 minutes.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover and let the apples cook for 10 minutes until tender.
  4. Remove from heat and enjoy.

Notes

Try adding a pinch of salt if you enjoy a sweet and salty taste!

Store leftovers in the fridge in a container for up to 3 days. 

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
  • Calories: 156
  • Sugar: 26g
  • Fat: 3.3g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 1g