Ruby-red spiced apple rings combine tart apples, cinnamon candies, cloves, allspice and pepper. Serve with ham, pork or turkey, or package as refrigerated gifts.

Prep: approximately 20–30 minutes | Cook: approximately 10–20 minutes | Total: approximately 30–50 minutes | Yield: starts with 4 pounds of apples | Method: stovetop

Ingredients

• 4 pounds firm tart apples, peeled, cored and sliced into rings
• 2 quarts water
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 4 cups sugar
• 2 cups water (for syrup)
• 1 package (6 ounces) red cinnamon candies
• ⅓ cup white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 1 tablespoon mixed peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon allspice berries
• 1 cinnamon stick

Instructions

1. Slice firm apples crosswise into even rings, about ¼–⅜ inch thick.
2. Combine 2 quarts water and lemon juice; submerge the apple rings to prevent browning.
3. Combine sugar, 2 cups water, cinnamon candies, vinegar, cloves, peppercorns, allspice and cinnamon stick in a heavy 6-quart saucepan.
4. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring until candies dissolve; reduce heat and simmer for about 3 minutes.
5. Drain apples and add to hot syrup in manageable batches. Simmer gently for approximately 5 minutes initially, longer if needed until tender but holding their shape.
6. Transfer carefully to a dish, cover with syrup, cool promptly, remove whole spices and refrigerate.

Recipe Tips

• Choose firm, tart apples such as Granny Smith to help the rings hold their shape.
• Keep slices even and simmer gently; vigorous boiling can break the rings.
• The cinnamon candies give the apples their traditional red color and cinnamon flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead

Refrigerate promptly in covered food-safe containers at 40°F or below and use within 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze with cooled syrup in suitable containers, allowing expansion space; texture may soften after thawing.

Refrigerated Gift Jars and Canning Safety

Pack chilled apple rings and syrup in clean jars and label Keep Refrigerated. This recipe has not been validated for shelf-stable home canning. Filling and sealing jars with hot syrup does not replace a tested canning recipe and processing method.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do rings fall apart? Soft apples, thin slices or vigorous boiling can cause breakage. Use firm apples and a gentle simmer.

Can these be made ahead? Yes. Prepare a day in advance and refrigerate covered in syrup.

Can I use other apples? Yes. Select another firm, tart variety and adjust cooking time to tenderness.