🍎 Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples – A Cozy Copycat Recipe
If you’ve ever been to Cracker Barrel, chances are you’ve tried their famous Fried Apples — a sweet, spiced apple side dish that’s just as good for dessert as it is alongside pork chops or chicken. With this slow cooker version, you can enjoy the same comforting flavor at home with minimal effort. The apples turn out tender, buttery, and infused with warm cinnamon and nutmeg. This is truly a dish that feels like a hug in every bite. 🍂
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ Easy one-pot slow cooker recipe – no stovetop mess
- ✅ Perfect Cracker Barrel copycat flavor
- ✅ Versatile – serve as a side dish or dessert
- ✅ Warm spices make it ideal for fall and holiday gatherings
Ingredients
- 6 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Apples
Peel, core, and slice the apples into uniform wedges. This ensures even cooking and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
2. Load the Slow Cooker
Place apple slices into your slow cooker. In a small saucepan (or microwave-safe bowl), melt the butter and stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until combined.
3. Pour and Coat
Pour the buttery sugar mixture over the apples. Stir gently to coat the slices evenly with the spiced glaze.
4. Slow Cook
Cover and cook on Low for 3–4 hours or High for 1.5–2 hours, until apples are tender but not mushy.
5. Serve Warm
Serve the fried apples warm as a side dish or dessert. They’re especially delicious over pancakes, waffles, pork chops, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. 🍨
Chef Tips from the Pros
Chef Ree Drummond (The Pioneer Woman): “Use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for depth of flavor.”
Chef Ina Garten: “A splash of fresh lemon juice keeps the apples bright and prevents them from browning.”
Chef Gordon Ramsay: “Balance is key. Don’t overload with sugar—let the natural apple flavor shine.”
Health Tips & Considerations
- 🍏 Opt for less sugar by reducing brown sugar to 1/3 cup.
- 🌱 For a vegan version, replace butter with coconut oil.
- ⚖️ Use fresh apples instead of canned for better texture and nutrition.
- 🥗 Pair with lean proteins like grilled chicken for a balanced meal.
- ⚠️ Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat gently to avoid mushy apples.
Nutrition & Health Benefits
| Ingredient | Amount | Health Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Apples | 6 large | Rich in fiber, Vitamin C, and antioxidants |
| Butter | 1/2 cup | Provides richness and flavor, contains fat-soluble vitamins |
| Brown Sugar | 1/2 cup | Adds sweetness and depth of flavor |
| Cinnamon | 1 tsp | Supports blood sugar control, anti-inflammatory |
| Nutmeg | 1/2 tsp | Aids digestion and enhances warmth in desserts |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with pork chops or roasted chicken for a Southern-style dinner 🍗
- Spoon over pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a cozy breakfast 🥞
- Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for dessert 🍦
- Use as a pie or tart filling for an easy shortcut 🥧
FAQs About Slow Cooker Fried Apples
- What apples work best? Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji, or a blend for balance.
- Can I use canned apples? Yes, but fresh apples yield better flavor and texture.
- Do I need to peel the apples? Yes, peeling prevents tough skins from ruining the texture.
- Can I add other spices? Absolutely—try cloves, allspice, or ginger.
- How do I thicken the sauce? Stir in 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with water at the end.
- Can I make it ahead of time? Yes, store in the fridge and reheat before serving.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, naturally gluten-free.
- Can I use margarine instead of butter? Yes, though butter gives a richer flavor.
- What’s the difference from stovetop fried apples? The slow cooker version requires less monitoring and gives a softer texture.
- How long do leftovers last? Up to 4 days refrigerated in an airtight container.
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Final Thoughts
These Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples bring the iconic restaurant favorite right to your kitchen. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, you’ll have a dish that works as both a side and a dessert. Serve them warm at family dinners, during the holidays, or just when you’re craving cozy Southern comfort. 🍎❤️
