We’ve all craved those warm, cinnamon-spiced apples from Boston Market that turn any meal into a cozy affair. Originating from the beloved American chain, this side dish captures the essence of home-style comfort with its sweet-tart flavor and simple charm.
Now we’re excited to bring you our easy copycat version, perfect for recreating that nostalgic taste right in your kitchen. It’s a straightforward recipe that’ll have you impressing family and friends in no time.
Ingredients
In our quest to recreate the warm, cinnamon-spiced magic of Boston Market’s apples, we start with fresh, high-quality ingredients that capture that signature sweet-tart flavor. These components come together to deliver a comforting side dish that’s simple yet irresistible.
To prepare this Boston Market Apples Copycat Recipe, gather the following ingredients. We’ve listed them in the order we use them, with prep notes for clarity:
- Apples: 6 medium Granny Smith apples (about 2 pounds), peeled, cored, and sliced into 1/4-inch thick wedges – their tartness balances the sweetness and mimics the original’s fresh appeal.
- Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup packed – this adds a rich, caramel-like depth that enhances the warm, comforting notes.
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon – the key spice that infuses that iconic cinnamon-spiced aroma and flavor we love from Boston Market.
- Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons, softened – provides a creamy richness and helps achieve the glossy finish on the apples.
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed – brightens the flavors and prevents browning for that perfect sweet-tart contrast.
- Water: 1/4 cup – used to create a light syrup that keeps the apples tender without overpowering their natural taste.
| Servings | Apples (medium) | Brown Sugar (cups) | Ground Cinnamon (tsp) | Unsalted Butter (tbsp) | Lemon Juice (tbsp) | Water (cups) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 6 | 1/2 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1/4 |
| 6 | 9 | 3/4 | 1.5 | 3 | 1.5 | 1/3 |
| 8 | 12 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 2 | 1/2 |
Tools and Equipment
To prepare our Boston Market Apples copycat recipe with ease and precision, we rely on a few essential tools and equipment. These items ensure that slicing, cooking, and serving the apples go smoothly while maintaining the dish’s signature sweet-tart flavors.
Here is a list of the key tools you’ll need, organized by their role in the process:
- Cutting Board: A sturdy, non-slip cutting board for safely slicing the Granny Smith apples into even pieces, which helps achieve uniform cooking.
- Sharp Knife: Use a sharp chef’s knife or paring knife to core and chop the apples quickly, minimizing bruising and preserving their fresh texture.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measuring cups (for ingredients like water and lemon juice) and spoons (for brown sugar and ground cinnamon) to guarantee the perfect balance of flavors.
- Medium Saucepan or Skillet: A medium-sized saucepan with a lid for simmering the apples with butter and spices, allowing for even heat distribution and tender results.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: A heat-resistant wooden spoon to stir the mixture gently, preventing the apples from sticking and ensuring the cinnamon-spiced sauce coats them evenly.
- Lemon Juicer or Reamer: A simple handheld lemon juicer to extract fresh lemon juice efficiently, adding the necessary tartness without seeds or pulp.
With these tools in hand, we’re ready to move seamlessly into the preparation steps, using high-quality ingredients like unsalted butter and ground cinnamon for an authentic Boston Market experience.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s guide you through creating our Boston Market Apples copycat recipe with ease and precision. We will break down the process into simple, step-by-step actions to ensure you capture that irresistible sweet-tart flavor and comforting cinnamon spice.
Prep
Before we begin cooking, we prepare our ingredients to ensure everything is ready for a seamless process. Start by washing 4 medium Granny Smith apples under cool running water to remove any residue, then pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Next, peel the apples using a sharp knife or peeler, core them to remove the seeds and tough center, and slice them into even 1/4-inch thick wedges for uniform cooking—aim for about 6-8 wedges per apple to promote even absorption of flavors.
Measure out the dry ingredients: 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, placing them in separate bowls for quick access. For the liquids, squeeze 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice from half a lemon to add that tangy brightness, and measure 1/4 cup of water. Finally, cube 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter into small pieces so it melts evenly later. This preparation sets the stage for the apples to develop their signature glossy, caramelized finish.
Cook
With our ingredients prepped, we move to cooking, where the magic happens to infuse the apples with warm, aromatic spices. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the 2 tablespoons of cubed unsalted butter until it bubbles slightly, releasing a rich, nutty aroma that fills the kitchen.
Add the sliced Granny Smith apples to the pan, stirring gently with a wooden spoon to coat them evenly in the butter. Sprinkle in the 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, then pour in the 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 1/4 cup of water. Stir continuously for the first 2 minutes to dissolve the sugar and create a syrupy base, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes. We check for doneness by testing the apples—they should become tender yet hold their shape, with a glossy sheen and the scent of cinnamon intensifying to evoke that nostalgic Boston Market vibe. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Assemble
Once cooked, we assemble the dish for a final touch that enhances its appeal and makes it ready to serve. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the apples rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, resulting in a warm, inviting dish with a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
If desired, transfer the apples and their syrup to a serving bowl, optionally garnishing with a light sprinkle of extra ground cinnamon for added visual pop and aroma. Serve immediately while warm, pairing with meats or as a standalone side—each bite offers a vivid contrast of soft, spiced apples against the tangy undertones, making it an instant family favorite.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Boston Market Apples Copycat Recipe even more convenient for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings, we can prepare it ahead of time without sacrificing that warm, cinnamon-spiced flavor. This approach allows the apples to meld flavors beautifully, ensuring a quick reheat for fresh-tasting results every time.
Preparing the Apples in Advance
Follow these steps to prep your ingredients up to 24 hours ahead:
- Wash and slice the apples: Start by washing 4-6 medium Granny Smith apples under cold water. Peel, core, and slice them into 1/4-inch thick wedges. This prevents browning—toss the slices in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to maintain their crisp, tart texture.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Stir well to create a uniform blend, which will enhance the sweet-spiced profile when added later.
- Store the components: Place the apple slices in an airtight container, layering them with the sugar-cinnamon mixture. Seal and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This step infuses the apples with subtle flavors, making them even more nostalgic and comforting.
Cooking and Storing the Full Dish
If you prefer to cook the entire recipe ahead, here’s how to do it efficiently:
- Cook as directed: Prepare the full recipe by melting 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then add the apples, sugar-cinnamon mixture, 1/4 cup of water, and the lemon juice. Simmer until the apples are tender yet firm, about 10-15 minutes.
- Cool and store: Let the cooked apples cool completely at room temperature for 30 minutes. Transfer them to an airtight container, ensuring the syrupy base covers the slices to lock in moisture and flavor. Refrigerate for up to 3 days—the chilling process intensifies the sweet-tart balance, making each bite even more irresistible.
- Reheating for optimal results: When ready to serve, reheat in a saucepan over low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring gently with a wooden spoon until warmed through. For a quicker option, microwave in a covered dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway. Avoid overcooking to preserve the apples’ tender firmness and vibrant cinnamon aroma.
| Storage Method | Duration | Best Practices |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated (raw prep) | Up to 24 hours | Keep in lemon juice to prevent browning; use within a day for peak freshness. |
| Refrigerated (cooked) | Up to 3 days | Store in an airtight container; stir before reheating to redistribute syrup. |
| Frozen (cooked) | Up to 2 months | Cool completely before freezing in freezer-safe bags; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. |
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Boston Market apples copycat recipe, as it’s a simple way to bring that cozy flavor into your kitchen. It’s perfect for creating memorable meals that feel just like the real deal.
By trying it out, you’ll discover how easy it is to impress with homemade touches that elevate any gathering. We’re confident it’ll become a staple in your recipe collection, so give it a go and savor every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Boston Market cinnamon apples recipe about?
This recipe is a simple copycat version of Boston Market’s warm, cinnamon-spiced apples, capturing their sweet-tart flavor and nostalgic appeal. It uses fresh ingredients like Granny Smith apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, butter, lemon juice, and water to create a comforting side dish that’s easy to make at home for family gatherings.
What ingredients do I need for this recipe?
You’ll need fresh Granny Smith apples for tartness, brown sugar and ground cinnamon for sweetness and spice, unsalted butter for richness, lemon juice to balance flavors, and water to create a syrupy base. Use high-quality ingredients to mimic the original Boston Market taste, with measurements provided in the article for perfect results.
What tools are required to make this dish?
Essential tools include a sturdy cutting board and sharp knife for prepping apples, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a medium saucepan or skillet for cooking, a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring, and a lemon juicer. These items ensure a smooth process, making the recipe accessible for home cooks.
How do I prepare the cinnamon apples step by step?
Start by washing, peeling, coring, and slicing the apples. Melt butter in a saucepan, add apples, then mix in brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and water. Simmer until tender but firm, stirring occasionally. Once done, let it cool slightly before serving warm as a delightful side dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prep apples and dry ingredients up to 24 hours in advance to let flavors meld. Store in an airtight container in the fridge. For the full dish, cook ahead and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to maintain tenderness and aroma, ideal for busy weeknights or holidays.
How should I store the cooked apples?
Store cooked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop with a little water to restore warmth and texture, preserving the cinnamon flavor and firmness.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Absolutely, it’s straightforward with simple steps and common ingredients, making it perfect for beginners. Detailed instructions cover prepping, cooking, and serving, so even novice cooks can create a tasty Boston Market copycat dish with minimal effort and great results.