Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe

Introduction

These Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples capture the sweet and spicy flavors of the classic diner-style treat with minimal effort. Perfect as a warm side dish or a comforting dessert, they fill your kitchen with inviting aromas while cooking low and slow.

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 ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
2. Step 2: Toss the mixture until the apples are well coated with the spices and sugars.
3. Step 3: Transfer the apple mixture to the slow cooker and spread it out evenly.
4. Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the apples are tender and fragrant.
5. Step 5: Stir occasionally during cooking to ensure the apples cook evenly and do not stick to the slow cooker.
6. Step 6: Serve warm as a delicious side dish or a comforting dessert.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, use cinnamon sticks instead of ground cinnamon and remove them before serving.
• Try adding a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for a spicier twist.
• Use a mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Fuji, for a balanced flavor.
• Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert upgrade.
• If you prefer firmer apples, reduce the cooking time by 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Storage

Store any leftover fried apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat or microwave until heated through. Stir occasionally to avoid scorching.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?

Fresh apples are best for this dish because they hold their texture better, but frozen apples can be used in a pinch. Just thaw and drain any excess liquid before combining with the other ingredients.

Can I make this recipe on the stove instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the mixture in a skillet over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently until the apples are tender and the sugars have caramelized.

Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe

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4.5 from 118 reviews

Enjoy the comforting sweetness of Cracker Barrel-style fried apples made easy in a slow cooker. Tender slices of apples are coated with a blend of brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, then slowly cooked to perfection, resulting in a warm, flavorful treat perfect as a side dish or dessert.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Apples

• 6 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced

Spices and Sugars

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Additional Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the sliced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, lemon juice, melted butter, and vanilla extract thoroughly to ensure the apples are evenly coated.
2. Toss the Mixture: Toss the apple mixture until all slices are well coated with the sugar and spice blend, which will help infuse flavor during cooking.
3. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Pour the coated apple mixture into your slow cooker, spreading it out evenly to allow for uniform cooking.
4. Slow Cook the Apples: Cover the slow cooker and cook on the low setting for 4 hours, or until the apples become tender and the sugars have created a syrupy glaze.
5. Stir Occasionally: During the cooking process, stir the apples occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure all pieces remain well coated with the cooking juices.
6. Serve Warm: Once cooked, serve the fried apples warm as a delicious side dish or a comforting dessert.

Notes

• You can substitute Granny Smith apples for a tarter flavor or use a mix of sweet and tart apples for more depth.
• For a thicker glaze, you can cook the apples uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce excess liquid.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently before serving.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to serve this dish as an indulgent dessert.

Keywords: slow cooker fried apples, Cracker Barrel style apples, slow cooked dessert, apple side dish, fall recipes, easy apple recipe