For many, the mention of Boston Market evokes a rush of nostalgic flavors – the succulent roasted chicken, the sweet cornbread, and, of course, their iconic cinnamon apples. While Boston Market locations might not be as widespread as they once were, especially in places like Utah, the desire for those comforting, spiced apples remains strong. Growing up in Washington and later living in California with a Boston Market just down the street, I became intimately familiar with their distinct taste. This deep appreciation allowed me to craft a copycat Boston Market Cinnamon Apples recipe that truly captures the essence of the original, bringing that beloved flavor right into your home kitchen.
These homemade cinnamon apples are more than just a side dish; they’re a taste of cherished memories and a surefire way to elevate any meal, particularly during the holiday season. Just the other day, spotting apples being prepared for a pie at the grocery store instantly transported me back to my elementary school days. I vividly recalled my sister getting ready for her shift at Boston Market, and the intoxicating aroma of those cinnamon apples wafting through the restaurant. It wasn’t just the apples; I loved everything about Boston Market then, and I can still almost taste the tender roasted chicken, the sweet glazed ham, and that warm cornbread drizzled with butter and sticky honey.
While my memories are perhaps idealized by childhood nostalgia, the impact of those visits and watching my sister work so diligently was profound. She was dedicated to saving money for college, and her work ethic deeply impressed upon me. It instilled a sense of responsibility and the importance of hard work and saving that my parents also taught me. Seeing a sibling embody these values truly cemented them in my mind. It’s a lesson I hope our children will learn from each other as well, just as I learned from my sister. And now, I’m thrilled to share a piece of that comforting past with you through this incredible recipe. After you try these delightful apples, be sure to scroll down for more fantastic copycat recipes!
Choosing the Best Apples for Cooking and Baking
Selecting the right apple variety is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and flavor in cooked apple dishes, including these delightful cinnamon apples. The best apples for baking and cooking are those that maintain their structure under heat, preventing them from turning into a bland, unappealing mush. While many varieties work well, each offers a slightly different profile that can enhance your dish.
Granny Smith apples are perhaps the most commonly recommended choice for cooking due to their firm texture and tartness. Their acidity provides a wonderful contrast to sweet ingredients, and they hold their shape exceptionally well. However, the culinary world offers a wide array of other excellent options. Many people prefer to use a combination of apples in their recipes to create a more complex and nuanced flavor experience. For example, pairing a tart apple with a sweeter one can achieve a balanced taste that satisfies all palates.
Beyond Granny Smith, other outstanding choices include Jonagold, known for its sweet-tart flavor and crisp texture that softens beautifully when cooked. Honeycrisp apples are another popular choice, celebrated for their sweet, juicy flesh and satisfying crunch that still holds up well after cooking. Gala apples offer a milder, sweeter flavor and a slightly softer texture, making them a good complement to more tart varieties. Pink Lady apples provide a delightful balance of sweet and tart with a firm, crisp bite, ensuring they retain their integrity in your dish. Experimenting with these varieties, either individually or in combination, can help you discover your personal favorite for these copycat Boston Market Cinnamon Apples.
The Surprising Health Benefits of Apples
Beyond their delicious taste and versatility in cooking, apples are a powerhouse of nutrition, offering a host of health benefits. These humble fruits are remarkably rich in important antioxidants, beneficial flavonoids, and essential dietary fiber, all of which contribute significantly to overall well-being.
Antioxidants and flavonoids are compounds that combat oxidative stress in the body, which is linked to various chronic diseases. Regular consumption of apples, rich in these protective substances, may play a role in reducing the risk of developing serious health conditions such as certain types of cancer, hypertension (high blood pressure), type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Their anti-inflammatory properties further support cardiovascular health and can help maintain healthy blood vessel function.
Furthermore, apples are an excellent source of vitamin C, a well-known immune booster that aids in collagen production, wound healing, and acts as another powerful antioxidant. They also contain a good array of B-complex vitamins, including riboflavin (B2), thiamin (B1), and vitamin B-6. These B vitamins are crucial for maintaining the healthy function of red blood cells, which are responsible for oxygen transport throughout the body, and for supporting a robust nervous system. Incorporating apples into your diet, whether raw or cooked, is a simple and delicious way to boost your nutrient intake and support a healthy lifestyle.
How Long Do Cooked Apples Last in the Refrigerator?
Once you’ve whipped up a batch of these delectable cinnamon apples, proper storage is key to enjoying them for as long as possible. Like most cooked fruits, cinnamon apples should always be refrigerated to maintain their freshness and prevent spoilage. After they have cooled completely to room temperature, transfer them to an airtight container.
When stored correctly in the refrigerator, cooked cinnamon apples will typically keep well for about 3 to 4 days. This makes them an excellent make-ahead dish for busy weeknights or a convenient option for holiday meal prep. You can easily reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave for a warm, comforting side or dessert. For longer storage, cooked cinnamon apples can also be frozen in a heavy-duty freezer bag or an airtight container for up to 4 months, offering a delightful treat whenever the craving strikes.
Copycat Boston Market Cinnamon Apples
By Sweet Basil
Prep: 2 mins | Cook: 5 mins | Total: 7 mins
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons Butter
- 2 Apples, peeled and sliced in wedges (we like Gala and Honey Crisp)
- 1/4 Cup Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 1 Pinch Nutmeg
- 1 Tablespoon Flour
Instructions
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add the butter.
- Once melted, quickly add the apples and toss in the butter.
- Allow to cook for 3-5 minutes or until they begin to get golden brown marks on them and are tender but not mushy.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and flour.
- The apples should turn all glazey while they rest, if not put on low heat and stir until they thicken and a glaze develops.
Recipe Notes
You can freeze cinnamon apples in a heavy duty freezer bag or a container with a tight lid for up to 4 months.
Nutrition
Serving: 1g, Calories: 155kcal, Carbohydrates: 27.1g, Protein: 0.5g, Cholesterol: 15.3mg, Fiber: 2.6g, Sugar: 22g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Enjoying these homemade copycat Boston Market Cinnamon Apples is a delightful way to bring a beloved classic into your home. They are incredibly simple to make, yet their sweet, spiced flavor and tender texture can transform any meal into a special occasion. Whether served alongside roasted meats, as a topping for ice cream, or simply as a comforting treat on their own, these apples are sure to become a family favorite. We encourage you to try this recipe and experience the warmth and nostalgia they bring. Don’t hesitate to leave a comment below and share your thoughts!
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