Spiced Apple Rings Recipe
Spiced Apple Rings are a delightful treat featuring tender apple slices simmered in a warm cinnamon candy syrup infused with cloves, cinnamon sticks, and optional guijillo chile for a subtle heat. This easy stovetop recipe ensures the apples stay perfectly shaped while absorbing a rich, spiced flavor, making it a perfect dessert or snack to enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 40 minutes (including refrigeration time)
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
For the Apples
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (to prevent apples from browning)
- 2 pounds apples (MacIntosh, Granny Smith, Honey Crisp, or any firm-fleshed apple)
- 3 cups water (divided use; more if needed)
For the Spiced Syrup
- 2 cups cinnamon candy (Red Hots or Cinnamon Imperials – any hard cinnamon candy)
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 guijillo chile (optional – adds a little heat)
Instructions
- Prepare Lemon Water: Add the lemon juice to 2 cups of water in a large bowl. This mixture will keep the apple slices from darkening once peeled and cut.
- Slice Apples: Peel and core the apples, then slice them into 1/2 inch thick rings. As you slice each apple ring, immediately drop it into the lemon water to prevent browning.
- Prepare Spiced Syrup: In a saucepan, heat 1/2 cup of the remaining water along with the cinnamon candies. Stir frequently to melt the candies completely, adding more water as needed to maintain a syrupy consistency without it becoming too thick.
- Add Spices: Add the guijillo chile (if using), whole cloves, and cinnamon sticks to the syrup. Allow the mixture to infuse with these spices while stirring gently.
- Drain and Dry Apples: Drain the apple rings from the lemon water and gently pat them dry using a clean towel to remove excess moisture.
- Simmer Apples in Syrup: Add the dried apple rings gently into the prepared spiced syrup. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally and gently, until the apples are tender yet holding their shape.
- Store: Transfer the apple rings along with the spiced syrup to a storage container. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight, or for approximately 8 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve and Store: Before serving, remove the cloves and cinnamon sticks. Store unused apple rings in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- The optional guijillo chile adds a subtle heat but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
- Use firm apples that maintain shape when cooked, such as Granny Smith or Honey Crisp.
- The cinnamon candy provides a unique spicy sweetness; adjust the quantity for desired sweetness and spice.
- Ensure to pat apples dry before simmering to avoid diluting the syrup.
- This recipe improves in flavor after refrigerating overnight.
- Store the apples covered with syrup to maintain moisture and flavor.
Keywords: spiced apple rings, cinnamon apple rings, apple dessert, cinnamon candy syrup, simmered apples
Find it online: https://cookedbycleo.com/spiced-apple-rings-recipe/
