Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples

Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples is a warm and comforting dish inspired by the iconic restaurant classic. With tender apple slices cooked to perfection in a cinnamon-spiced brown sugar sauce, this recipe makes for a delicious side dish or dessert. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these slow-cooked apples are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant-inspired delight: Brings the flavors of Cracker Barrel’s famous fried apples to your kitchen.
• Simple preparation: Using a slow cooker makes it effortless and hands-free.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, dessert, or even as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or ice cream.
• Comforting and nostalgic: A warm, spiced apple dish that brings back fond memories.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the sweetness and spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala work best)
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Butter
• Lemon juice
• Optional: Cornstarch (for thickening)

Directions

1. Peel, core, and slice the apples into even pieces.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the apple slices with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir well to coat.
3. Add small pats of butter evenly over the apple mixture.
4. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until the apples are tender.
5. If a thicker sauce is desired, mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it into the apples in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Serve warm as a side dish or dessert, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-4 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes – 4 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Add raisins: Toss in a handful of raisins for added texture and sweetness.
• Use different spices: Experiment with ground ginger, allspice, or cloves for unique flavors.
• Sweetener swap: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetener.
• Add a splash of vanilla: Stir in a teaspoon of vanilla extract at the end for a richer taste.
• Alcoholic twist: Add a splash of bourbon or apple brandy for a more sophisticated flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place leftover fried apples in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a microwave-safe dish or in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or apple juice to loosen it.

FAQs

1. What are the best apples for fried apples?

Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala apples work well because they hold their shape while cooking.

2. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, cook the apples on low heat in a large skillet for about 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently.

3. Can I freeze fried apples?

Yes, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.

4. How can I thicken the sauce?

Mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the apples during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

5. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative.

6. Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Pears or peaches can be used as substitutes or additions to the apples.

7. Are fried apples gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if no gluten-containing thickeners are added.

8. How do I prevent the apples from turning mushy?

Use firm apple varieties and avoid overcooking them in the slow cooker.

9. Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Yes, pecans or walnuts make a great addition for some crunch.

10. What dishes pair well with fried apples?

Fried apples pair well with pork chops, roasted chicken, pancakes, or as a dessert with vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples is a delightful, comforting recipe that’s easy to prepare and versatile enough to suit any meal. With just a few simple ingredients and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can recreate the magic of this restaurant classic in your own home. Whether served as a side dish, dessert, or topping, these tender, spiced apples are sure to become a family favorite.

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