Introduction

Spiced Apple Rings are a delightful treat combining tender apple slices with a warm cinnamon and clove syrup. This simple recipe uses cinnamon candy to create a flavorful glaze that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of apples, with an optional touch of heat for adventurous palates.

A close-up of a white bowl with a red rim and fruit patterns on the inside edges, filled with several thick slices of bright red stewed fruit, likely cooked apples or pears, showing a soft and juicy texture; the bowl is placed on a cloth with red floral print, next to worn wooden-handled knife and scattered small round red berries on a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/4 cup lemon juice (keeps apples from darkening)
2 pounds apples (Macintosh, Granny Smith, Honey Crisp, or any firm-fleshed apple that holds shape when cooked)
3 cups water (divided use, more if needed)
2 cups cinnamon candy (Red Hots or Cinnamon Imperials, any hard cinnamon candy)
1 tablespoon whole cloves
2 cinnamon sticks
1 guajillo chile (optional, adds a little heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Add the lemon juice to 2 cups of water in a large bowl or container.
Step 2: Peel and core the apples, then slice them into 1/2 inch thick rings.
Step 3: As you slice, drop each apple ring into the lemon water to prevent browning.
Step 4: In a saucepan, heat 1/2 cup of the remaining water and the cinnamon candies over medium heat.
Step 5: Stir often until the candy dissolves completely, adding more water as needed to keep the syrup from getting too thick.
Step 6: Add the guajillo chile (if using), whole cloves, and cinnamon sticks to the melted syrup.
Step 7: Drain the apple rings from the lemon water and pat them dry gently with a towel.
Step 8: Carefully stir the apple rings into the cinnamon syrup.
Step 9: Cover and simmer the mixture, stirring gently every few minutes, for about 15 minutes or until the apples are tender but not falling apart.
Step 10: Transfer the apple rings with syrup to a storage container and cover completely with the cooking liquid.
Step 11: Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight or for at least 8 hours. Before serving, remove the cloves, cinnamon sticks, and chile.
Step 12: Store any unused spiced apple rings in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Tips & Variations

For a milder flavor, substitute cinnamon candy with ground cinnamon added to the syrup.
Try other firm apple varieties to find your preferred texture and sweetness.
If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of guajillo chile or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Use the syrup as a flavorful addition to cocktails or over vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Storage

Store spiced apple rings in an airtight container covered with syrup in the refrigerator for up to one week. The apples will continue to absorb flavor as they sit. To reheat, gently warm them in a saucepan over low heat or enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge.

How to Serve

The image shows a bowl filled with bright red poached pear slices that have a soft, smooth texture and are stacked loosely on top of each other. The white bowl has a floral pattern around the edge, and a spoon rests on the edge of the bowl partly inside the pears. The bowl is placed on a white cloth with small red and green floral prints, which sits on a white marbled surface. In the background, there is a white jar with a red lid. The setting feels warm and rustic. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other candies besides cinnamon candy?

Yes, you can use other hard cinnamon-flavored candies like cinnamon drops or even cinnamon sticks with added sugar, but candy melts faster and gives a smoother syrup.

What if I don’t have guajillo chile?

The guajillo chile adds a subtle heat and smoky flavor, but it is optional. You can omit it or substitute with a small pinch of chili powder or a few red pepper flakes.