Few desserts bring back memories of cozy kitchens and bubbling stovetops quite like Red Hot Cinnamon Apples. This classic recipe, once a staple at holiday dinners and family gatherings, combines the sweetness of apples with the bold spice of Red Hot candies to create a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
The glossy, ruby-red hue and cinnamon aroma instantly evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Each bite delivers that perfect balance—sweet, spicy, and slightly tangy—wrapped around tender apple slices that melt in your mouth. Whether served warm on a chilly day, spooned over ice cream, or as a side to roasted meats, Red Hot Cinnamon Apples are the definition of comfort and charm.
Let’s revisit this timeless favorite and discover how simple ingredients come together to make a treat that never fails to impress.
Recipe Overview
Red Hot Cinnamon Apples are a vintage-inspired dessert made by simmering apple slices in a spiced syrup of sugar, water, and cinnamon candies. The result is a glistening, scarlet-red dish bursting with flavor and a touch of heat. With just five ingredients, this recipe transforms humble apples into a show-stopping treat perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight indulgence.
Ingredients & Instructions
Ingredients
- 3 pounds apples (Jonathon apples work best)
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups sugar
- ½ cup Red Hot candies
- Red food coloring (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Red Hot Syrup
In a large saucepan, combine water, sugar, and Red Hot candies. Place over medium-high heat and stir occasionally until the mixture comes to a boil.
As the candies begin to melt, you’ll see the syrup turn a lovely pinkish-red hue. Once the sugar and candies are mostly dissolved, turn off the heat to prevent overboiling.
Pro Tip: If you prefer a deeper red color or stronger cinnamon flavor, add a few drops of red food coloring or a pinch of ground cinnamon.
2. Prepare the Apples
Peel and quarter the apples, removing the cores. You can also slice them into eighths for faster cooking or a more delicate texture.
For best results, use Jonathon apples or another tart variety such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Braeburn. Their firm texture holds up beautifully while soaking in the spicy syrup.
3. Simmer the Apples
Add the prepared apples to the warm red syrup. Turn the heat back to high, stirring often. Bring the mixture to a full boil—just until it’s nearly bubbling over—then reduce the heat to medium.
Continue cooking, stirring gently to avoid breaking the apples, until they’re tender and infused with the red color. This process usually takes about 10–15 minutes depending on the apple variety and thickness of the slices.
Pro Tip: The longer the apples simmer, the deeper the flavor. For a softer, candied texture, let them cook an extra few minutes.
4. Add Optional Coloring and Finish
If you prefer a more vibrant red, stir in a few drops of red food coloring while the apples are still simmering. Keep stirring until the syrup thickens slightly and the apples are evenly coated.
Once done, turn off the heat and let the apples cool for a few minutes in the syrup.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Using a slotted spoon, gently ladle the apples into a serving dish. Pour a little of the syrup over the top for extra shine and flavor.
Let cool before serving warm or chilled. For a festive touch, sprinkle chopped pecans or a dollop of whipped cream over each serving.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Choose the Right Apples
Firm, tart apples work best since they hold their shape without turning mushy. Jonathon, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn apples balance perfectly with the cinnamon sweetness.
2. Add Depth to the Syrup
If you want a richer flavor, try adding:
- A splash of vanilla extract
- A dash of nutmeg or allspice
- A tablespoon of lemon juice for a tangy note
3. Make It Sugar-Free
Substitute granulated sugar with your preferred sugar alternative (like erythritol or stevia blend). Choose sugar-free cinnamon candies if available for a lighter, diabetic-friendly version.
4. Transform It Into a Topping
Red Hot Cinnamon Apples make an incredible topping for:
- Pancakes or waffles
- French toast
- Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream
- Cheesecake or bread pudding
5. Turn It Into a Gift
Spoon the cooled apples and syrup into glass jars and seal tightly. Tie with ribbon and a cinnamon stick for a charming homemade gift—perfect for holidays or hostess treats.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave for 30–60 seconds until just heated through.
Serving Ideas
- Serve warm alongside roast pork, ham, or turkey for a sweet-spicy side.
- Enjoy chilled as a refreshing dessert.
- Layer over yogurt or oatmeal for a festive breakfast twist.
Red Hot Cinnamon Apples are a nostalgic delight that bridge the gap between candy and comfort food. The sweet heat from the Red Hot candies melts perfectly into tender apples, creating a dish that feels both vintage and fresh.
Whether you’re reviving an old family favorite or discovering it for the first time, this recipe promises warmth, color, and flavor in every bite. Simple enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for the holidays, it’s a classic that never goes out of style.
So grab those apples, stir up some cinnamon magic, and let your kitchen fill with the scent of sweet nostalgia.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different candy instead of Red Hots?
Yes! You can use cinnamon imperials or even red cinnamon disks, though melting times may vary.
2. Can I leave the peels on the apples?
You can, but peeled apples absorb the syrup more evenly and achieve that vibrant red hue.
3. How do I keep the apples from getting mushy?
Use firm varieties and avoid overcooking—just simmer until fork-tender.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely. The flavor deepens as it sits, so it’s even better the next day.
5. What can I pair with Red Hot Cinnamon Apples?
They pair beautifully with roast pork, pancakes, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Red Hot Cinnamon Apples combine tender apples, sugar, and Red Hot candies for a bold, nostalgic treat. Perfect for holidays, desserts, or as a sweet side dish!
