Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – The slow cooker does all the work for you.
- Just Like Cracker Barrel’s – A homemade version of the beloved classic.
- Perfectly Sweet & Spiced – A warm blend of cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla.
- Versatile – Enjoy as a dessert, side dish, or over pancakes and ice cream.
- Great for Meal Prep – Make a batch and enjoy throughout the week.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 3-4 lbs apples, peeled and sliced into wedges
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel and slice the apples into wedges. Place them in the slow cooker.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon.
- Coat the Apples: Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the apples and toss to coat evenly.
- Add the Liquid Ingredients: Pour the melted butter, lemon juice, and vanilla extract over the apples. Stir gently.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until the apples are tender but not mushy.
- Serve & Enjoy: Stir gently before serving warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Variations
- Apple Variety: Try Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith for different flavors.
- Caramel Twist: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples before serving.
- Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top.
- Extra Spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for a deeper spice flavor.
- Alcohol Infusion: Add a splash of bourbon for a rich, warm twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 30 seconds or heat on the stovetop over low heat.
FAQs
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji hold their shape best.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes! Simmer everything in a saucepan over low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
How do I keep the apples from turning mushy?
Use firmer apple varieties and cook on low heat to maintain texture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! These apples store well and can be reheated before serving.
What can I serve these apples with?
Enjoy them over pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, or even with vanilla ice cream.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough.
What if my apples release too much liquid?
You can thicken the sauce by mixing 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a little water and stirring it in at the end.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for a softer texture, but you can leave the peels on if you prefer.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes! Adjust the sugar amounts to your taste or use a sugar substitute.
How do I add a caramelized flavor?
Let the apples cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to thicken the sauce.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are a simple, delicious, and comforting dish that works as a side, topping, or dessert. Whether served warm with breakfast or alongside a scoop of ice cream, these apples are sure to become a family favorite. Give them a try and bring the flavors of Cracker Barrel to your home!
Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 Servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are a sweet and cinnamon-spiced treat just like the classic dish from Cracker Barrel. Made with fresh apples, brown sugar, butter, and vanilla, this easy slow cooker recipe is perfect as a side dish, dessert, or topping for pancakes, waffles, and ice cream.
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs apples, peeled and sliced into wedges
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel and slice apples into wedges, then place them in the slow cooker.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk cornstarch, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon.
- Coat the Apples: Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the apples and toss to coat evenly.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: Pour melted butter, lemon juice, and vanilla extract over the apples. Stir gently.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until apples are tender but not mushy.
- Serve & Enjoy: Stir gently and serve warm as a side, topping, or dessert.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples for the best texture.
- If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with water and stir in at the end.
- Cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes for a thicker sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
