Sauteed Apples With Pecan Slices
Sweet sautéed apples with pecans and a rich caramel sauce, finished with cream and rum flavoring, perfect for elegant dessert servings with ice cream.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon in a large skillet; cook over medium-high heat until butter melts.
- Add apple slices, turning to coat with the sugar mixture.
- Sauté for 5 minutes or until apples are tender.
- Transfer apples to a serving plate.
- Add whipping cream and rum extract to the skillet, stirring well.
- Bring to a boil.
- Boil for 10 to 15 minutes or until the mixture is thickened and reduced to about 2/3 cup.
- Stir in chopped dates and reduce heat; simmer uncovered for 1 minute.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans.
- Arrange apple slices around four bowls.
- Put ice cream in the center of each bowl and spoon the sauce over the apple slices.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown butter instead of regular butter. If you don't have rum extract, vanilla extract can be a fine substitute. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar based on your preference. Use any tart apple variety for a contrasting flavor, such as Granny Smith, which pairs well with the sweetness of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sautéed apples warm, drizzled with the creamy sauce and topped with a scoop of ice cream. They pair beautifully with Lime Ice Cream for a refreshing contrast. For an extra touch, consider serving alongside Light Freezer Rolls for a delightful brunch option or dessert. Garnish with additional pecans for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm the apples gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. The sauce can also be reheated in a small saucepan until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sauteed Apples With Pecan Slices contains roughly 331 calories, with 2g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 10g 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sautéed apples ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. However, it's best to make the sauce fresh to maintain its creamy texture. Reheat the apples gently before serving and spoon the freshly made sauce over them.
What type of apples are best for sautéing?
Red Delicious apples are sweet and soft, making them suitable for sautéing. However, for more texture and tartness, consider using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. A combination of sweet and tart apples can create a more complex flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free by using a plant-based butter substitute and replacing the whipping cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. This will still give a creamy texture while making the dish suitable for those avoiding dairy.
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).