A classic French dish that's simple yet absolutely delicious: golden apples pan-fried until caramelized through and through, with just a hint of sugar and butter. Perfect as a side dish or a light dessert.
⏱️25 min
📊Easy
👥4 servings
🍽️Main
quickbudget-friendlyvegetarianfamily
Ingredients
6 piècesapples
40 gbutter
3 cuillères à soupesugar
1 cuillère à soupelemon juice
0.5 cuillère à cafécinnamon
1 pincéesalt
Instructions
1PREPARE THE APPLES: Wash the apples under cold running water and pat them dry thoroughly. Peel them with a vegetable peeler or chef's knife using regular downward strokes. Cut them in half, then remove the seeds and cores with a small spoon. Cut each half into regular slices approximately 1 centimeter thick. Immediately drizzle the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent them from oxidizing and turning brown.
2MELT THE BUTTER: Place a medium skillet over medium heat and let it warm for one minute. Add the butter in pieces and allow it to melt completely, tilting the pan slightly to coat the bottom evenly. You should achieve a delicate and fragrant foam. Do not let the butter burn or it will turn dark brown and become bitter.
3COOK FIRST SIDE: Arrange the apple slices in the hot butter, overlapping them slightly. Sprinkle half of the sugar and cinnamon on top. Cook without stirring for 5 to 6 minutes over medium-high heat until the apples turn golden and lightly caramelized on the bottom. You can check the cooking progress by gently lifting a slice with a spatula to see the golden color underneath.
4FLIP AND COOK SECOND SIDE: Using a thin spatula or tongs, gently flip each apple slice. Sprinkle the remaining sugar and cinnamon, then add a few small pieces of butter if needed. Continue cooking for 4 to 5 additional minutes until the apples are tender and caramelized on both sides. They should remain slightly firm in the center and melt in your mouth.
5FINISH AND SERVE: Transfer the sautéed apples to a warm serving dish or plate with a spatula, pouring the caramelized pan juices over them as well. Check the seasoning and add a pinch of salt to enhance the sweet flavors. Serve immediately while the apples are still hot and tender, optionally accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or crème fraîche.