Red Hot Cinnamon Apples
Sweet and spicy cinnamon apples with a vibrant red color, perfect for preserving and enjoying as a flavorful dessert or side dish throughout the year.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel, core, and quarter the apples.
- Bring water, sugar, oil of cinnamon, and red food coloring to a boil.
- Add the apples and cook gently until they are tender.
- Pack the hot fruit into sterilized jars.
- Process in boiling water bath for 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter taste, you can adjust the sugar to your preference, using brown sugar for a caramel flavor. If you can't find Jonathan apples, Granny Smith or Honeycrisp will work well. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with the oil of cinnamon. Ensure the jars are properly sterilized to avoid spoilage.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these vibrant apples warm or cold as a delightful dessert topping over vanilla ice cream or pancakes. They also pair wonderfully with savory dishes like roasted pork or chicken. For a refreshing side, consider a light salad such as Strawberry Lettuce Salad to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, keep the Red Hot Cinnamon Apples refrigerated and consume within a week. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture and prevent burning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Hot Cinnamon Apples contains roughly 413 calories, with 6g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Jonathan apples are recommended for their flavor, you can substitute with Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. Each type will give a different taste and texture, so feel free to experiment based on your preference.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the apples?
To adjust the sweetness, you can reduce or increase the sugar within the suggested range. If you prefer a healthier option, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia, keeping in mind that sweetness levels may vary. Always taste during cooking to achieve your desired flavor.
What is the best way to ensure my jars are sealed properly?
To ensure proper sealing, use sterilized jars and lids, and process the jars in a boiling water bath for the recommended time. After processing, check that the lids are concave and do not pop when pressed. If any jars do not seal, refrigerate them and consume within a week.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).