Cinnamon Apples in the Microwave: A Quick and Delicious Recipe
There’s something magical about the aroma of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. It instantly brings a feeling of warmth and comfort, reminding us of cozy fall days and holiday gatherings. One of my favorite ways to enjoy cinnamon is by making cinnamon apples. This quick and easy recipe will have you savoring the taste of spiced apples in no time, and the best part is that it can be made right in the microwave!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s make sure we have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
Prepare the Apples
Start by washing the apples thoroughly under cold water. Then, using a sharp knife or an apple corer, remove the core and seeds from the center of each apple. You can choose to leave the skins intact or peel them, depending on your preference.
Once the apples are cored, slice them into thin, even slices. Aim for slices that are about a quarter of an inch thick. This will ensure that the apples cook evenly and retain some texture.
Create the Cinnamon Mixture
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until fully liquefied. Then, add the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the melted butter. Stir the mixture well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
If you prefer a tangier taste, you can also add a small splash of lemon juice to the cinnamon mixture. The acidity of the lemon juice will balance out the sweetness of the apples and spice mixture.
Cooking Time
Now it’s time to cook the apples in the microwave! Arrange the apple slices in a single layer in a microwave-safe dish, such as a glass baking dish. Make sure the dish is large enough to accommodate all the slices without overcrowding.
Next, pour the cinnamon mixture over the apples, ensuring that all the slices are coated evenly. The mixture will provide the apples with a sticky glaze, infused with the warm flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar.
Cover the dish loosely with a microwave-safe lid or a microwave-safe plastic wrap. This step is crucial as it helps to trap the steam inside, allowing the apples to cook and soften evenly.
Microwave Power and Cooking Time
Cooking times may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave, so it’s important to adjust accordingly. Start by microwaving the apples on high heat for 2 minutes, then remove them from the microwave and carefully give them a gentle stir.
Return the dish to the microwave and continue microwaving for an additional 2-4 minutes, stopping every minute to carefully stir the apples. Keep a close eye on them as you approach the end of the cooking time, as you want the apples to soften without turning mushy.
Serving Suggestions
Once the apples are tender and infused with the flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar, they’re ready to be enjoyed! This versatile treat can be served in various ways:
The possibilities are endless! Feel free to get creative and experiment with different serving options that suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
Making cinnamon apples in the microwave is a quick and satisfying way to enjoy a classic fall flavor. Not only is it a convenient method, but it also allows you to make a smaller batch for those times when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
So, grab your apples, butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar, and get ready to fill your home with the delightful aroma of this simple recipe. Your taste buds and loved ones will surely thank you for this effortless and delicious treat!