Description

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

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.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

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

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store any leftover fried apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
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.
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.
Flavor Enhancement: Before serving leftovers, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of lemon juice to refresh the flavors.
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.