Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe

If you’ve ever had the warm, cinnamon-sugar-drenched apples from Cracker Barrel, you know exactly what kind of comfort we’re talking about. These Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are melt-in-your-mouth tender with just the right amount of sweetness and spice—and the best part? They’re ridiculously easy to make! Just toss everything in your slow cooker, let it do its magic, and your kitchen will smell like a cozy fall day. Perfect as a side dish, a dessert, or even a breakfast topping!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless & Hands-Off: Just peel, slice, stir, and let the slow cooker do the work. It’s that easy.
• Cozy & Comforting: Warm, spiced apples with a buttery cinnamon-sugar glaze—like apple pie without the crust.
• Versatile: Serve them with dinner, as a dessert, or even over pancakes or waffles in the morning.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or weekend dinners and gets rave reviews every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather just a few pantry staples and some fresh apples—no fancy ingredients here:

• Apples: Choose firm, tart-sweet varieties like Granny Smith or Golden Delicious—they hold their shape and deliver the perfect texture.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken that luscious syrup so it clings beautifully to the apple slices.
• Brown Sugar: Brings deep, molasses-like sweetness and richness to the mix.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds balance and boosts the overall sweetness.
• Cinnamon: Essential for that classic, warm spiced flavor—don’t skimp!
• Butter: Melted butter gives the apples a silky, buttery finish that’s absolutely irresistible.
• Lemon Juice: A little brightness to keep the apples from becoming overly sweet and to preserve their color.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and rounds out the flavor with a smooth, mellow touch.

Variations

Want to tweak this recipe? Totally doable! Here are a few ideas:

• Add Nutmeg or Allspice: For even more warm spice complexity.
• Use Maple Syrup: Swap out some sugar for maple syrup for a richer, autumn-inspired flavor.
• Make It Boozy: Add a splash of bourbon or spiced rum for a grown-up twist.
• Nut Topping: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts in at the end for a little crunch.
• Go Sugar-Free: Use your favorite sugar substitute to make this diabetic-friendly.

How to Make Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples

This is one of the simplest slow cooker desserts you’ll ever make. Let’s walk through it step by step:

Step 1: Prep the Apples

Peel, core, and slice your apples into wedges. Try to keep the slices uniform for even cooking. Tip: An apple corer/slicer combo makes this job a breeze!

Step 2: Coat with Cornstarch

Add the apple slices and cornstarch to your slow cooker. Stir until the apples are evenly coated—this is key for a beautifully thick sauce later.

Step 3: Add Sugars and Cinnamon

Sprinkle in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Stir gently to distribute everything over the apples.

Step 4: Add the Flavor Boosters

Pour in the melted butter, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Give it one final stir to combine all the goodness.

Step 5: Cook on High

Cover the slow cooker and set it to high. Cook for 2 hours, stirring once halfway through if you’re around.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the apples are fork-tender and swimming in a cinnamon-sugar glaze, they’re ready. Serve warm and bask in the deliciousness!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Uniform Slices: Try to cut the apple wedges about the same size to ensure even cooking.
• Avoid Overcooking: Don’t let them sit in the slow cooker too long, or they may turn mushy. Two hours on high is usually perfect.
• Stir Gently: Stir carefully so the apples don’t break apart—especially toward the end of cooking.
• Use the Right Apples: Softer varieties like Red Delicious can turn to mush. Stick with firm types that hold up well to slow cooking.

How to Serve

These fried apples are incredibly versatile. Here’s how to enjoy them:

On Their Own:

Serve them warm in a bowl with a spoon—pure comfort food.

Over Ice Cream:

A scoop of vanilla ice cream + warm apples = magic. Add a drizzle of caramel sauce if you’re feeling extra indulgent.

Breakfast Treat:

Spoon them over pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, or French toast for a cozy breakfast upgrade.

On the Side:

Pair with pork chops, roasted chicken, or even turkey for a sweet and savory balance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled fried apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight—so leftovers are just as tasty.

Freezing

These freeze surprisingly well! Let them cool, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave in 30-second bursts, or warm them gently in a saucepan over low heat until heated through.

FAQs

Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just make sure your slow cooker has enough room. If it’s packed too tightly, the apples may not cook evenly, so stir a couple of times during cooking.

Do I have to peel the apples?
For the best texture, yes. The peels can become tough and chewy when slow cooked. It’s worth the extra few minutes!

Can I use a different type of apple?
Absolutely. Just choose a firm variety. Fuji, Braeburn, or Honeycrisp all work well, but avoid overly soft apples like McIntosh.

Can I cook them on low instead of high?
Yes, but it’ll take longer—about 3.5 to 4 hours on low. The apples may turn out a bit softer, but still delicious.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving that comforting, nostalgic flavor of Cracker Barrel’s fried apples without the drive—or the fuss—this recipe is for you. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re serving it up for dessert or sneaking a spoonful straight from the fridge (no judgment here), these slow cooker apples are sure to become a go-to favorite. Give it a try and enjoy every warm, cinnamony bite!

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