Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples

If you’re a fan of the sweet and savory taste of Cracker Barrel fried apples, you’re in for a treat! This slow cooker version is simple to prepare and delivers the same delicious flavors. Perfect for a cozy dessert or a sweet side dish, these apples are sure to become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 lbs apples, peeled and sliced into wedges
• 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Apples

Start by peeling, coring, and slicing 3-4 pounds of apples into wedges. Granny Smith or Golden Delicious apples work particularly well for this recipe.

2. Coat with Cornstarch

Add the apple wedges and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to your slow cooker. Stir well to ensure the apples are evenly coated.

3. Mix Sugars and Cinnamon

Pour in ¼ cup of brown sugar, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Stir everything together until the apples are well mixed with the sugars and cinnamon.

4. Add Butter, Lemon Juice, and Vanilla

Pour ¼ cup of melted butter, 2 teaspoons of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract over the apple mixture. Stir again to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.

5. Cook in Slow Cooker

Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2 hours. This allows the apples to become tender and the flavors to meld together perfectly.

6. Serve

Once the cooking time is complete, give the apples a good stir. Serve them warm on their own, or pour them over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

Notes

• Best Apples: Granny Smith or Golden Delicious apples are ideal for making fried apples due to their firm texture and tart flavor, which balance well with the sweetness of the sugars.
• Apple Prep: The most time-consuming part of this recipe is coring, peeling, and slicing the apples. Using an apple slicer and corer can make this step quick and easy.

Serving and Storage Tips :

Serving Suggestions

1. Dessert Delight: Serve these warm fried apples on their own as a comforting dessert straight from the slow cooker.
2. Ice Cream Topping: Spoon these delicious apples over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
3. Breakfast Side: Enjoy them as a sweet side dish alongside pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a delightful breakfast.
4. Yogurt Topping: Use them as a flavorful topping for Greek yogurt or oatmeal for a nutritious and delicious start to your day.
5. Pork Chop Companion: Pair these fried apples with pork chops or roasted pork for a savory-sweet dinner combination.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover fried apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freezing: These apples freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some room for expansion. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
3. Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the fried apples in a saucepan on the stove over low heat or in the microwave at short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
4. Flavor Enhancement: Before serving leftovers, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of lemon juice to refresh the flavors.
5. Enjoy Fresh or Warmed: These fried apples can be enjoyed either cold or gently warmed to your preference. Adjust the sweetness by adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup if desired.

These serving and storage tips ensure that your Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples stay delicious whether served fresh or enjoyed later. Incorporate them into various meals or desserts to savor their rich flavors and comforting appeal.

Variations :

1. Apple Pie Spice Blend: Substitute the cinnamon with apple pie spice for a warmer, more complex flavor.
2. Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added texture and nutty flavor.
3. Caramel Apple Twist: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples just before serving for a gooey, indulgent treat.
4. Maple Glaze: Replace the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a distinctive maple flavor profile.
5. Citrus Infusion: Use orange juice instead of lemon juice for a citrusy twist. Add orange zest for extra brightness.
6. Spiced Rum: Add 2 tablespoons of spiced rum to the mixture for a boozy kick (cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to cook off alcohol).
7. Berry Blend: Mix in 1 cup of fresh or frozen berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, during the last hour of cooking for a burst of fruity flavor.
8. Coconut Crisp: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the apples before serving for a tropical twist.
9. Gingerbread Spice: Substitute cinnamon with gingerbread spice mix for a warm, holiday-inspired flavor.
10. Apple Crisp Parfait: Layer the fried apples with granola and Greek yogurt for a satisfying breakfast parfait.

Try these variations to add new flavors and textures to your Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with these twists, they’re sure to be a hit at any meal or gathering.

FAQs :

1. Can I use a different type of apple?
   • Yes, Granny Smith and Golden Delicious are recommended for their firm texture and flavor balance. However, you can use other varieties based on personal preference.
2. How do I prevent the apples from turning mushy?
   • Cooking on high for 2 hours ensures the apples are tender yet maintain their shape. Avoid overcooking to prevent mushiness.
3. Can I reduce the amount of sugar used?
   • Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Start with less and add more if needed during cooking.
4. What can I substitute for cornstarch?
   • You can substitute arrowroot powder or tapioca starch for cornstarch in equal amounts as a thickening agent.
5. Can I make this recipe vegan?
   • Yes, replace butter with a vegan butter substitute and ensure other ingredients are vegan-friendly, such as plant-based sugars and omitting honey if used.
6. Do I need to peel the apples?
   • Peeling the apples is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the peel on for added fiber and a more rustic appearance.
7. Can I cook these fried apples on low instead of high?
   • Cooking on low for 4-5 hours is an option for a slower cooking process, ensuring the apples absorb flavors deeply.
8. How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
   • Mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the slow cooker. Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
9. Can I add other spices to enhance the flavor?
   • Yes, experiment with spices like nutmeg, cloves, or ginger for a more complex flavor profile.
10. How should I store leftover fried apples?
    • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage. Thaw and reheat gently before serving.

These FAQs provide helpful insights and tips for making and enjoying Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples, ensuring your cooking experience is enjoyable and successful.