Description
Old-Fashioned Red Cinnamon Apple Rings are a nostalgic and flavorful treat featuring tender apple slices simmered in a vibrant cinnamon candy syrup. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or holiday garnish, this recipe delivers a delightful balance of sweet and spicy, with a stunning red hue that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
Apples
- 4 medium 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
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring (optional, for vibrant color)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cinnamon Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine water, sugar, red hot cinnamon candies, vinegar, cinnamon stick, and red food coloring if using. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until candies are fully dissolved. Then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Simmer Apple Rings: Add apple rings to the syrup in batches to prevent overcrowding. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the apple rings are just tender but not falling apart. Remove carefully with a slotted spoon and transfer to a heat-safe container or jar. Repeat with remaining apple rings.
- Combine and Chill: Once all apple rings are cooked, pour the hot cinnamon syrup over them ensuring they are fully submerged. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to meld flavors.
- Serve: Serve the red cinnamon apple rings chilled or at room temperature as a snack, side dish, or festive garnish.
Notes
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Use a mandoline slicer for even, consistent apple rings.
- Great for holiday platters or as a nostalgic snack.
