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Nuts and Twigs » Recipes » Veganuary Recipes

Easy Caramelized Apples

Published: Mar 7, 2025 · Modified: Apr 8, 2025 by Regi Pearce · This post may contain affiliate links · 1 Comment

If you’re looking for an easy and quick treat to top ice cream, oatmeal, or pancakes, these Easy Caramelized Apples will become your new favorite. With just a handful of ingredients and a skillet, you can whip up tender, golden apples in less than 15 minutes.

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caramelized apples in a pan.

These easy caramelized apples taste just like apple pie filling. Perfect on their own, over oatmeal, pancakes, or a scoop of vegan ice cream - this recipe proves that simple can be seriously delicious!

Caramelized apples are a cozy classic, especially popular during fall when apples peak and holiday desserts are in full swing.

But honestly use them anytime since apples are in season at stores all year!

If you're looking for more apple recipes, check out Kale and White Bean Salad, Vegan Apple Crisp Recipe, and Apple Cinnamon Steel-Cut Oats.

Jump to:
  • Why You'll Love This Recipe
  • Ingredients
  • Variations
  • How To Make Easy Caramelized Apples
  • Top Tips
  • Serving Suggestions
  • Recipe FAQS
  • More Vegan Sweet Treats
  • Easy Caramelized Apples
  • Comments

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Ready in just 15 minutes with minimal ingredients.
  • Caramelized apples bring out their natural sugars - no heavy syrups are needed.
  • Perfect as a topping for oatmeal, pancakes, ice cream, or enjoyed alone.
  • You can customize this recipe to make it with or without butter.

Ingredients

  • Brown Sugar: Substitute with coconut sugar.
  • Apples: Firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, pink ladies, or Fuji hold their shape and caramelize beautifully. Granny Smiths are more tart, making them perfect if you prefer a sweet-tart contrast, while Honeycrisp and Fuji offer a naturally sweeter flavor.
  • Butter: Omit the butter for a healthier alternative. Instead, use a couple of tablespoons of water.
  • Water: Optional - Add a few tablespoons of water while caramelizing apples.

See the recipe card for quantities and a full list of ingredients.

Variations

  • Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for a cozy autumn flavor.
  • Splash in a bit of bourbon or rum for an adults-only version.
  • Toss in toasted pecans or walnuts for added texture.
  • You can easily make these without butter like I do in my Apple Cinnamon Steel-Cut Oats. Just add a few tablespoons of water while cooking to prevent sticking and keep them soft if needed. Using water for caramelized apples creates a lighter, softer texture with a more natural apple flavor, while butter adds richness, depth, and a slightly caramelized, buttery taste.

How To Make Easy Caramelized Apples

Step 1: Add the sliced apples to a pan with vegan butter. If not using butter add a few tablespoons of water to the pan.

Step 2: After a few minutes, add the brown sugar, cinnamon, and another couple of tablespoons of water. Cook until softened. Add a pinch of salt and stir.

Top Tips

  • Cut the apples evenly so they cook at the same rate. Also, cut them into a shape that suits how you plan to use them. For example, slice them thin for oatmeal or pancakes, cube them for topping ice cream or yogurt, or leave them in thicker wedges if serving as a side dish or for the top of a cake.
  • Don't cut the apples until you're ready to cook. Since they oxidize after being cut, you want them at their freshest.
  • Cook apples in a single layer to help them caramelize instead of steam.
  • Stir gently to prevent sticking, but not too much - you want those golden edges!
  • This recipe makes enough to top Vegan Banana Oat Pancakes for four people.
  • Using water for caramelized apples creates a lighter, softer texture with a more natural apple flavor. If you cook it with vegan butter, it adds richness, depth, and a more caramelized, buttery taste.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve over Simple Vegan Pancakes , Vegan Protein Waffles, or a serving of Vegan French Toast Casserole.
  • With dairy-free vanilla ice cream or Homemade Vegan Banana Ice Cream.
  • Mixed into oatmeal or topped on overnight oats like Vegan Banana Cream Pie Overnight Oats.
  • Top on vegan cheesecake, chia pudding, or add to Banana Kiwi Dessert Pizza.
  • Use it as a filling for vegan apple turnovers or vegan crepes.

Recipe FAQS

What apples are best for caramelizing? 

Firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji hold their shape and caramelize beautifully.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Store caramelized apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Do I need to peel the apples for caramelized apples?

It’s up to you! Peeling creates a softer texture while leaving the skins on adds a bit of chew and extra fiber.

Why aren’t my apples caramelizing?

Make sure the pan isn’t overcrowded, and use medium heat. Too many apples at once can cause steaming instead of caramelizing.

How do I store caramelized apples?

Store caramelized apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave at 50% power for several minutes before serving.

Can I make caramelized apples without butter?

Yes! You can caramelize apples without butter by using coconut oil or simply cooking them with maple syrup or just the brown sugar. You can also add a tablespoon or two of water to help them soften and prevent sticking. Using water for caramelized apples creates a lighter, softer texture with a more natural apple flavor, while butter adds richness, depth, and a caramelized, buttery taste.

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Got a minute? I'd love for you to comment and rate these Easy Caramelized Apples. Your feedback is invaluable. Did you love it? Did you make any fun twists? Let me know how my directions worked so I can keep improving my recipes. Follow me on Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for inspiration.

caramelized apples in a pan.

Easy Caramelized Apples

Regi Pearce
These caramelized apples are sweet, cinnamon-spiced, and absolutely irresistible. It's easy and quick enough for a weekday treat and fancy enough for a holiday dessert.
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 15 minutes mins
Course condiment
Cuisine American
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 112 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium apples Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, pink ladies, or Fuji work well, peeled (or not), cored, and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons vegan butter salted
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar or coconut sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • pinch of salt if not using salted butter
  • ½ cup water optional
Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Apples: Peel (if you want), core, and slice the apples into thin wedges or bite-sized chunks. Whatever shape you decide, make them uniform.
  • Melt Butter: In a large skillet, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. If not using butter, add two-four tablespoons of water to the skillet. Add more water as needed.
  • Caramelize Apples: Add the apple slices to the skillet and cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they begin to soften.
  • Add Sugar and Cinnamon: Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon over the apples, stirring well to coat. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the apples are tender and caramelized. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning. Optional: Add two more tablespoons of water.
  • Finish: Add a pinch of salt. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to let the flavors meld.
  • Serve Warm: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy as-is or use as a topping for your favorite dishes.

Notes

If you’re slicing the apples, they probably won’t all fit in one layer in a large pan, so you’ll need to cook them in two batches. Diced apples, however, are easier to manage. You can fit 2 medium apples in a large pan without overcrowding and inadvertently steaming the apples.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Cut apples evenly for even cooking and shape them based on use. Thin for oatmeal, cubed for toppings, or thick for side dishes and cakes.
Slice just before cooking to keep them fresh and prevent oxidation.
Cook in a single layer for caramelization instead of steaming.
Using water for caramelized apples creates a lighter, softer texture with a more natural apple flavor, while butter adds richness, depth, and a caramelized, buttery taste.
Nutritional information is only an estimate.

Nutrition

Calories: 112kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 0.3g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 48mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 15g | Calcium: 15mg | Iron: 0.2mg
Keywords 15 minute recipe, beginner, budget friendly, easy, fall, family friendly
Tried this recipe?Please consider Leaving a Review!

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About Regi Pearce

Hello! I am Regi, the creator of Nuts & Twigs. I debunk the myths that vegan food is all nuts and twigs and offer plant-based scrumptiousness that goes far beyond that "rabbit food" stereotype. So grab your fork and put on your stretchy pants, 'cause you're gonna want seconds.

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    Recipe Rating




  1. Regi Pearce says

    March 07, 2025 at 4:27 pm

    5 stars
    These caramelized apples are buttery, golden, and perfectly soft with just the right amount of sweetness. They’re easy to make and ridiculously versatile. Pile them on pancakes, oatmeal, or even ice cream for an instant upgrade. The best part? That rich, syrupy glaze that forms as they cook. Whether you’re making them for breakfast or dessert, they’re the kind of thing you’ll want to eat straight from the pan!

    Reply

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Regina Pearce

I'm Regi.

Head nut, chief twig, and creator of Nuts & Twigs. My husband, Rob, and I live in Colorado. Here, you can expect delicious vegan recipes that make you realize that a life without cheese is not only possible but also worth living.

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