Easy Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples with Cinnamon Glaze

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Introduction

Enjoy the cozy, comforting flavors of these Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples, a perfect blend of tender apples, warm cinnamon, and a sweet, buttery glaze. This dish is incredibly versatile, serving as a dessert, side dish, or even a topping for pancakes or waffles. Made effortlessly in a slow cooker, these fried apples are a delicious treat that will fill your home with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon-spiced apples.

Ingredients

  • 6 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

  1. Slice the Apples:
    • Peel, core, and slice the apples into evenly sized wedges or slices for uniform cooking.
  2. Coat the Apples:
    • In a large bowl, combine the apple slices with brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, melted butter, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
    • Toss the apples gently until they are well-coated in the sugar and spice mixture.

Step 2: Transfer to the Slow Cooker

  1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
    • Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Add the Apples:
    • Pour the coated apples into the slow cooker, spreading them evenly to create a single layer if possible.

Step 3: Cook the Apples

  1. Set the Temperature:
    • Cover the slow cooker and set it to low.
  2. Cook:
    • Let the apples cook for 4 to 6 hours, stirring occasionally if possible. The apples should be tender but not mushy, with a thickened cinnamon glaze coating them.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve Warm:
    • Spoon the fried apples onto plates or into bowls, making sure to drizzle the cinnamon glaze from the slow cooker over the top.
  2. Optional Toppings:
    • Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert.

Cooking Notes

  • Apple Variety: Choose firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the best results, as they hold their shape during cooking.
  • Adjust Sweetness: Reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet dish or if your apples are naturally very sweet.
  • Spice Variations: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for an extra layer of warmth.
  • Shorter Cooking Time: For a quicker option, cook on high for 2 to 3 hours, but check often to avoid overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve as a side dish with pork chops, roasted turkey, or ham for a sweet and savory contrast.
  • Pair with breakfast favorites like pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal.
  • Use as a dessert topping over vanilla ice cream, pound cake, or yogurt.

Tips

  1. Batch Size: Double the recipe for larger gatherings; use a 6-quart or larger slow cooker to ensure even cooking.
  2. Storage: Store leftover fried apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  3. Reheat: Warm leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick treat.
  4. Make Ahead: Prepare the apples and coating mixture the night before and refrigerate. In the morning, simply transfer to the slow cooker and start cooking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 4 to 6 hours

Servings: 6

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 210
  • Fat: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Protein: 0.5g
  • Fiber: 3g

Conclusion

These Slow Cooker Fried Apples are a fuss-free way to bring the flavors of fall to your table, no matter the season. Whether served as a dessert or a side dish, their tender texture and rich cinnamon glaze make them a family favorite. Perfect for holidays, cozy dinners, or just a sweet treat to brighten your day, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your rotation.

Print
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Easy Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples with Cinnamon Glaze

  • Author: Imili Johnson
  • Total Time: 4 to 6 hours
Print Recipe

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

  1. Slice the Apples:
    • Peel, core, and slice the apples into evenly sized wedges or slices for uniform cooking.
  2. Coat the Apples:
    • In a large bowl, combine the apple slices with brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, melted butter, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
    • Toss the apples gently until they are well-coated in the sugar and spice mixture.

Step 2: Transfer to the Slow Cooker

  1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
    • Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Add the Apples:
    • Pour the coated apples into the slow cooker, spreading them evenly to create a single layer if possible.

Step 3: Cook the Apples

  1. Set the Temperature:
    • Cover the slow cooker and set it to low.
  2. Cook:
    • Let the apples cook for 4 to 6 hours, stirring occasionally if possible. The apples should be tender but not mushy, with a thickened cinnamon glaze coating them.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve Warm:
    • Spoon the fried apples onto plates or into bowls, making sure to drizzle the cinnamon glaze from the slow cooker over the top.
  2. Optional Toppings:
    • Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 210
  • Fat: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 0.5g

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