These Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Quesadillas are a fun way to start your day! With warm apples, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and gooey cheese all tucked inside a crispy tortilla, they are simply delicious.
Making these is super easy! Just slice apples, add some cinnamon, and grill them in a tortilla. I love to drizzle a bit of maple syrup on top for extra sweetness. Yum! 🍏🥞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I recommend using Gala or Fuji apples for their sweet flavor. If you’re looking for a tart kick, go for Granny Smith apples. You can even try pears if apples aren’t available—just adjust the sweetness a bit, as pears tend to be softer.
Cheese: Mild cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella work great. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a bit of cream cheese for extra richness! For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cheese substitute.
Butter: Unsalted butter is the best choice here to control the saltiness. If you want a healthier option, you can substitute with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
How Do I Get Perfectly Caramelized Apples?
Caramelizing the apples is key to this dish! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by melting the butter in the skillet over medium heat, letting it lightly bubble.
- Add the diced apples quickly so they don’t stew—stir for even cooking.
- Sprinkle in the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg while cooking to enhance sweetness.
- Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples are tender and lightly golden.
Remember, patience is key! The longer and slower you cook them, the more flavor you’ll develop. Enjoy your cooking!
Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Quesadillas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 medium apples (such as Gala or Fuji), peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
For the Quesadillas:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded mild cheese (such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella)
- Maple syrup, for drizzling
- Whipped cream or Greek yogurt, for serving (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and approximately 10 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need about 20 minutes to enjoy these delicious quesadillas from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apples:
In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook while stirring occasionally until the apples become tender and caramelized, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once ready, remove the mixture from heat and set aside.
2. Heat Your Skillet:
Take a large non-stick skillet or griddle and heat it over medium heat. This will be where you grill your quesadillas until they are nice and crispy!
3. Assemble the Quesadilla:
Now, place one tortilla on a flat surface. Sprinkle about a quarter of the shredded cheese over half of the tortilla. Follow this by spooning a quarter of the warm apple mixture on top of the cheese.
4. Fold It Up:
Carefully fold the tortilla in half over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Make sure the filling is well contained inside!
5. Cook the Quesadilla:
Place the filled tortilla onto the heated skillet. Cook it for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is nicely melted. Repeat this step for the remaining tortillas and filling.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, cut the quesadillas into wedges. Drizzle them with maple syrup for that perfect touch of sweetness. Serve warm with a side of whipped cream or Greek yogurt if you fancy—enjoy your scrumptious Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Quesadillas!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Gala or Fuji apples are great for sweetness, you can use any variety you like. Granny Smith apples will add a nice tartness, or try pears for a different flavor!
What If I Don’t Have Tortillas at Home?
No problem! You can substitute the tortillas with pita bread, flatbreads, or even crepes for a unique twist on the recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness.
Can These Quesadillas Be Made Vegan?
Yes! You can easily make a vegan version by using plant-based butter, dairy-free cheese, and omitting any animal products. They’ll still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Quesadillas?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Enjoy them again!