Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Rings (Print)

Baked apple rings with cinnamon sugar deliver the perfect caramelized, crisp snack or sweet finish.

# Ingredients:

→ Apples

01 - 3 large apples (e.g., Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji)

→ Coating

02 - 2/3 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

→ Optional Garnishes

05 - Powdered sugar, for dusting
06 - 1/4 cup caramel sauce, for drizzling

# Directions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
02 - Wash and core the apples. Slice them into uniform 1/4-inch thick rings. Lightly pat the apple slices dry with a paper towel to help the coating adhere.
03 - In a shallow bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir until thoroughly mixed.
04 - Using a pastry brush, lightly coat both sides of each apple ring with melted unsalted butter.
05 - Dredge each buttered apple ring in the prepared cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides.
06 - Place the coated apple rings on the prepared baking sheet in a single, even layer. Avoid overcrowding.
07 - Bake for 18 to 22 minutes. Midway through cooking, gently flip the apple rings to ensure even caramelization. The apples should be tender and the sugar beautifully caramelized.
08 - Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the apple rings to cool for approximately 5 minutes. Carefully transfer them to a serving plate.
09 - If desired, dust the apple rings with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce. Serve warm or at room temperature.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Ready in just 35 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses simple pantry staples you likely already have
  • Makes a healthier alternative to traditional fried apple rings
  • Perfect for using up extra apples during fall harvest
  • Kid friendly and adult approved
02 -
  • These apple rings contain significantly less fat than fried versions
  • The recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings
  • Each serving provides a good source of fiber from the apples
  • Perfect make ahead snack that can be reheated
03 -
  • After making these apple rings countless times I've discovered a few secrets that make all the difference. First patting the apple slices completely dry is non negotiable. Any excess moisture prevents proper caramelization and can lead to soggy results. Second if your apples are particularly tart try adding an extra tablespoon of sugar to the coating mixture. Lastly watch the rings carefully during the last few minutes of baking as the sugar can go from perfectly caramelized to burnt quite quickly. The difference between golden perfection and disappointment can be just 60 seconds in the oven.

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