Description
Old-Fashioned Red Cinnamon Apple Rings are a nostalgic American side dish featuring tender apple slices simmered in a fragrant cinnamon and red hot candy syrup. These vibrant, sweet-tart apple rings are perfect for holiday meals, dessert toppings, or as a unique addition to a charcuterie board. They are easy to prepare on the stovetop and maintain a pleasing texture with a signature red hue.
Ingredients
Scale
Apple Rings
- 6 firm apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced into 1/4-inch rings
Syrup
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup red hot cinnamon candies
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring (optional for a deeper red color)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
Instructions
- Prepare the Syrup: In a large saucepan, combine water, granulated sugar, red hot cinnamon candies, lemon juice, cinnamon sticks, and red food coloring if using. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat while stirring occasionally until the sugar and candies dissolve completely, creating a fragrant cinnamon syrup.
- Simmer Apple Rings: Reduce heat to low and add the apple rings in batches to avoid overcrowding. Simmer each batch for 5 to 7 minutes or until the apples are just tender but still hold their shape without becoming mushy. Remove the cooked apple rings with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a heat-safe container or bowl.
- Combine and Cool: Once all apple rings are cooked, pour the warm cinnamon syrup over the rings to coat them evenly. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
- Chill: Cover the container with the apple rings and syrup, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This resting time enhances the flavor and deepens the cinnamon infusion.
- Serve: Serve the red cinnamon apple rings chilled or at room temperature as a delightful side dish, festive dessert topping, or charming addition to a charcuterie board.
Notes
- Use a melon baller to remove apple cores while keeping the rings intact.
- These apple rings make a great holiday side dish, dessert topping, or can be added to a charcuterie board for variety.
- Store leftover apple rings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
