Cracker Barrel’s fried apples are a beloved side dish many crave for their sweet, tender, and warmly spiced flavors. This recipe recreates that comforting treat using a slow cooker, simplifying the process while maintaining the delicious taste. It’s perfect for serving as a dessert or a side dish during the fall season or any time you want a taste of nostalgia.
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 5–6 tart apples (about 2 lb), peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2-inch wedges
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Juice of 1 lemon (or equivalent bottled lemon juice)
Preparation:
Step 1: Grease the slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of butter to prevent the apples from sticking.
Step 2: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Step 3: In a large bowl, toss the apple wedges with the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and lemon juice until well coated.
Step 4: Transfer the apple mixture into the prepared slow cooker, spreading it evenly.
Step 5: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the apples are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Note:
The slow cooker method allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully, creating a syrupy, caramel-like coating on the apples.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the fried apples warm. They are excellent as a dessert with vanilla ice cream, or as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or even pork chops for a sweet and savory twist.
Tips:
- Choosing Apples: Tart apples like Granny Smith work best as they hold up well during slow cooking and provide a nice contrast to the sweet caramel.
- Adjusting Sweetness: You can adjust the amount of brown sugar based on the sweetness of the apples and your preference.
- Storing: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Prep Time:
- 15 minutes (prep and assembly)
Cooking Time:
- 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
Total Time:
- 4 hours 15 minutes to 5 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 0.5g
- Sodium: 65mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this recipe with other types of fruit? A: Yes, this recipe can also be made with pears or a mix of apples and pears for a different flavor profile.
Q: Can I add nuts to this recipe? A: Yes, adding chopped pecans or walnuts in the last hour of cooking can provide a delightful crunch.
Conclusion
This slow cooker version of Cracker Barrel’s fried apples brings a touch of southern charm to your kitchen. It’s a fuss-free recipe that delivers all the flavors of the original dish with minimal effort. Whether as a comforting side dish or a sweet dessert, these slow-cooked apples are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the ease of this dish alongside the rich, spiced flavors that epitomize home-cooked comfort.
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Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 5 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 5–6 tart apples (about 2 lb), peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2-inch wedges
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Juice of 1 lemon (or equivalent bottled lemon juice)
Instructions
Step 1: Grease the slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of butter to prevent the apples from sticking.
Step 2: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Step 3: In a large bowl, toss the apple wedges with the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and lemon juice until well coated.
Step 4: Transfer the apple mixture into the prepared slow cooker, spreading it evenly.
Step 5: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the apples are tender and caramelized.
Notes
The slow cooker method allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully, creating a syrupy, caramel-like coating on the apples.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the fried apples warm. They are excellent as a dessert with vanilla ice cream, or as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or even pork chops for a sweet and savory twist.
Tips:
- Choosing Apples: Tart apples like Granny Smith work best as they hold up well during slow cooking and provide a nice contrast to the sweet caramel.
- Adjusting Sweetness: You can adjust the amount of brown sugar based on the sweetness of the apples and your preference.
- Storing: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
Nutrition
- Calories: 150
- Sodium: 65mg
- Protein: 0.5g