Pin This tender-sweet baked cinnamon sugar apple ring recipe transforms ordinary apples into caramelized treats that balance perfectly between snack and dessert. The magic happens when the cinnamon-sugar coating melts and crystallizes around each apple slice, creating that irresistible contrast between the soft fruit and crisp exterior.
I first made these apple rings during a rainy autumn afternoon when my nieces were visiting. What started as a simple way to keep little hands busy turned into our favorite seasonal tradition. Now they specifically request "the apple cookies" whenever apple season rolls around.
Ingredients
- Apples: Choose firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji that hold their shape when baked. The natural sweetness of these varieties complements the cinnamon sugar coating beautifully.
- Granulated sugar: Creates that wonderful crystallized exterior. Look for pure cane sugar for best results.
- Ground cinnamon: The warming spice that makes these irresistible. Fresh cinnamon makes a noticeable difference in flavor intensity.
- Unsalted butter: Helps the sugar mixture adhere and contributes to the caramelization. European style butter with higher fat content produces an even richer result.
- Optional garnishes: Powdered sugar adds a pretty finishing touch while caramel sauce creates an indulgent dessert experience. Both complement the apple flavor perfectly.
Instructions
- Prep the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. This moderate temperature allows the apples to become tender without burning the sugar coating. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the apples:
- Wash your apples thoroughly then core them using an apple corer for neat rings. Slice them into 1/4inch thick rings using a sharp knife. The uniform thickness ensures even baking. Pat the slices completely dry with paper towels as moisture will prevent proper caramelization.
- Create the coating:
- In a shallow bowl mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon until completely combined. The shallow bowl makes it easier to dredge each apple slice thoroughly. Make sure there are no clumps of cinnamon for even distribution.
- Apply the butter:
- Melt the unsalted butter completely and let it cool slightly. Using a pastry brush apply a light but thorough coating of butter to both sides of each apple ring. The butter acts as the glue that helps the cinnamon sugar adhere to the apple surface.
- Coat with cinnamon sugar:
- Dredge each buttered apple ring in the cinnamon sugar mixture pressing gently to ensure an even coating on all surfaces. Work with one ring at a time for the most consistent results. The sugar should form a visible layer on each slice.
- Arrange for baking:
- Place the coated apple rings in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet ensuring they do not touch or overlap. This allows proper air circulation for even caramelization. Leave at least half an inch between each ring.
- Bake to perfection:
- Bake for 18 to 22 minutes flipping each ring carefully halfway through the baking time. Look for edges that begin to caramelize and apples that yield easily when pierced with a fork. The exact time will depend on your apple variety and thickness.
- Cool and garnish:
- Allow the apple rings to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet. This cooling period lets the caramelized sugar set slightly. Transfer to a serving plate and finish with a light dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce if desired.
Pin Cinnamon is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. I discovered that freshly ground cinnamon makes an enormous difference in flavor compared to the pre ground variety that might have been sitting in your pantry for months. When my grandmother first tasted these apple rings, she immediately recognized the distinctive warm flavor that reminded her of apple pies from her childhood.
Storage Tips
These baked apple rings maintain their best texture when eaten fresh from the oven, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To restore some of their crispness place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. Avoid refrigerating as this can make them soggy, though they can be frozen after baking. To freeze place cooled rings on a parchment lined tray until solid then transfer to freezer bags for up to 3 months. Reheat frozen rings directly in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Seasonal Adaptations
While this recipe shines with fall harvest apples you can enjoy variations year round. In summer try substituting fresh peach slices reducing the baking time by about 5 minutes. Winter pears make an excellent alternative though they may need an extra few minutes of baking time. Spring brings the opportunity to add fresh berries as a topping after baking. For a festive holiday twist add a pinch of nutmeg and clove to the cinnamon sugar mixture during winter months.
- For summer parties serve chilled with a scoop of lemon sorbet
- During autumn add a pinch of apple pie spice to the cinnamon sugar
- Winter gatherings call for a dash of bourbon in the caramel drizzle
Serving Suggestions
Transform these apple rings into an impressive dessert by creating a simple apple ring sundae. Layer warm apple rings with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. For brunch serve alongside yogurt parfaits or as part of a continental breakfast spread. They also make a wonderful accompaniment to afternoon tea or coffee. For a more substantial dessert use these rings as the base for a deconstructed apple pie layering them with whipped cream and crushed graham crackers.
Pin These simple ingredients and straightforward steps result in a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I keep the apple rings crisp?
Pat the apple slices dry before coating, and broil for 1–2 minutes after baking for extra crispiness.
- → Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter with melted coconut oil or your preferred plant-based alternative.
- → What type of apples works best?
Choose crisp apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji for the best texture and sweetness.
- → Is it possible to prepare these in advance?
The apple rings are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored and gently reheated before serving.
- → How can I serve these for dessert?
Serve warm apple rings with ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent finish.