If you’re craving a touch of nostalgia wrapped in sweet cinnamon warmth, this Old-Fashioned Red Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe is exactly what you need. These tender, brightly red apple rings doused in a spicy cinnamon syrup are a delightful treat that takes you straight back to cozy kitchens and festive family gatherings. The combination of crisp apples simmered in a luscious, sweet cinnamon sauce creates a perfect balance of tart, sweet, and spicy that’s utterly irresistible. Whether served alongside breakfast or as a charming dessert garnish, this recipe brings out the very best in simple ingredients with a classic twist that feels like a warm hug from the past.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Old-Fashioned Red Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe, you’ll use a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play an important role. From the firm apples that hold their shape to the cinnamon candies that lend their signature zing, every component amplifies the flavor, texture, and iconic red hue of this vintage favorite.
- Apples (6 medium, firm): Choose Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the perfect balance of tartness and firmness to hold their shape during cooking.
- Water (3 cups): Forms the flavorful syrup base for gently poaching the apple rings.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Adds the essential sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the tart apples.
- Red hot cinnamon candies or imperials (1/2 cup): The secret to that bold cinnamon kick and mesmerizing red color.
- White vinegar (1/2 cup): Brightens the syrup and helps maintain the red hue of the apples.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For an extra layer of warm spice that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Red food coloring (optional): Use just a few drops if you want a deeper, more vibrant red tone without overpowering the flavor.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Red Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Syrup
Start by combining the water, granulated sugar, red hot cinnamon candies, white vinegar, and optional ground cinnamon in a large saucepan. Heat over medium, stirring gently until both the sugar and candies have fully dissolved. This creates a fragrant, sweet-spicy syrup that will infuse your apple rings with vibrant flavor and that nostalgic cinnamon punch.
Step 2: Simmer the Apple Rings
Once your syrup is at a gentle boil, reduce the heat to a simmer. Carefully add the peeled, cored, and quarter-inch sliced apple rings in batches, ensuring they’re fully submerged in the syrup. Let each batch simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes until the apples are just tender but still hold their shape perfectly. Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked rings and place them into a large bowl or jar.
Step 3: Add Color and Cool
If you desire a richer red color, stir in a few drops of red food coloring into the remaining syrup. Then pour this warm, fragrant syrup directly over the apple rings, making sure they are completely covered. Allow everything to cool to room temperature. This resting time is key to letting the flavors develop fully.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate the apple rings and syrup for at least 24 hours before serving. This chilling step melds the cinnamon spice with the tartness of the apples beautifully, transforming this simple dish into an utterly delicious treat.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Red Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Old-Fashioned Red Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe by garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh chopped mint or a light dusting of powdered sugar. These small touches add freshness and a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the warming cinnamon flavors.
Side Dishes
These apple rings are incredibly versatile. Serve them alongside pork chops, roasted turkey, or even on top of oatmeal or yogurt for breakfast. Their sweet-tart zing cuts through rich, savory dishes beautifully, adding a pop of flavor and a nostalgic charm.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive look, layer the apple rings in a clear glass jar or trifle bowl with dollops of whipped cream. Or stack them between pancakes or waffles for a delightful breakfast surprise. The vivid red color and aromatic cinnamon syrup make every presentation feel special and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Old-Fashioned Red Cinnamon Apple Rings keep well in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Store them submerged in their syrup in an airtight container to preserve their flavor and texture. They’re perfect for prepping ahead of family gatherings or holidays.
Freezing
While freezing may alter the texture slightly, you can freeze the apple rings and syrup together in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw them gradually in the fridge overnight for best results, then enjoy them chilled or gently warmed.
Reheating
If you prefer warm apple rings, gently reheat them on the stovetop over low heat, making sure not to overcook. Warm syrup-infused apples make a cozy addition to desserts or breakfast, especially on cooler days.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples work best because of their firm texture and tartness, other firm apple varieties like Fuji or Pink Lady can also be used. Just make sure they are firm enough to hold their shape during simmering.
What can I substitute for red hot cinnamon candies?
If red hot candies aren’t available, you can use cinnamon sticks paired with ground cinnamon and a bit of extra sugar for sweetness. Keep in mind that the vibrant red hue may be less intense without the candies.
Is the vinegar necessary?
The white vinegar helps brighten the flavor and preserve the red color of the apple rings. Skipping it can diminish these effects, but if you prefer a less tangy syrup, you can reduce the amount slightly without too much impact.
Can this recipe be canned for long-term storage?
Yes, these apple rings can be canned following proper sterilization and canning procedures. Ensure you use safe canning practices recommended for acidic fruit preserves to maintain both flavor and food safety.
How soon can I serve the apple rings after cooking?
For the best flavor, it’s recommended to chill the apple rings in their syrup for at least 24 hours. This resting time allows the cinnamon and sugar to soak into the apples fully, enhancing their classic taste and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Old-Fashioned Red Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe is more than just a dish — it’s a sweet slice of tradition that warms your heart and your taste buds. With its beautiful red color, fragrant cinnamon aroma, and tender apple texture, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Dive in, make a batch, and share the joy of this charming recipe with those you care about. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to these cinnamon-spiced rings again and again.
Print
Old-Fashioned Red Cinnamon Apple Rings Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes plus 24 hours chilling time
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
Old-Fashioned Red Cinnamon Apple Rings are a nostalgic, flavorful treat featuring tender apple slices simmered in a sweet and spicy cinnamon syrup with a vibrant red color. Perfect as a festive garnish or a light dessert, this recipe combines tart apples with the warmth of cinnamon candies and a touch of vinegar for balance.
Ingredients
Apples
- 6 medium firm apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and cored, cut into 1/4-inch rings
Syrup
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup red hot cinnamon candies or red cinnamon imperials
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra spice)
- red food coloring (optional, for deeper color)
Instructions
- Prepare the syrup: In a large saucepan, combine the water, granulated sugar, red hot cinnamon candies, white vinegar, and ground cinnamon if using. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently until both the candies and sugar have completely dissolved into the liquid.
- Simmer apple rings: Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Carefully add the apple rings in batches, ensuring they are fully submerged in the syrup. Simmer each batch for approximately 5 to 7 minutes until the apples become tender but still hold their shape and are not mushy.
- Transfer cooked apples: Using a slotted spoon, remove the cooked apple rings from the syrup and place them into a large bowl or jar. Repeat the simmering process with the remaining apple rings until all have been cooked.
- Add color and assemble: If desired, add a few drops of red food coloring to the syrup to intensify the red color. Pour the warm syrup over the apple rings, covering them completely to infuse the flavor and color.
- Chill and serve: Allow the apple rings to cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate them for at least 24 hours to let the flavors fully develop. Serve chilled as a festive garnish, side dish, or light dessert.
Notes
- Store the apple rings in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness.
- They make a beautiful and flavorful garnish for holiday meals, breakfasts, or desserts.
- For preserving via canning, ensure to follow proper sterilization and processing guidelines to guarantee safety.
