Easy Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples: A Timeless Delight

Indulge in the sweet, comforting flavors of Easy Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples, a quintessential Southern dish that brings warmth to any meal. This recipe captures the essence of homemade goodness, providing a perfect balance of tart apples and a sugar-cinnamon glaze, all effortlessly cooked in a slow cooker.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. With minimal preparation time, you can enjoy a delightful dessert or side dish that’s synonymous with comfort. The Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for a touch of nostalgia and sweetness. The aroma that fills your kitchen as the apples cook is simply irresistible!

Not only is this dish easy to make, but it also requires just a few ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. This makes it a go-to recipe for last-minute occasions or when you want to impress guests without the fuss. Enjoy these fried apples over breakfast pancakes, as a dessert topping, or on their own as a delightful treat.

Context/Background

Cracker Barrel Fried Apples have become a beloved side dish known for their rich, buttery flavor and tender texture. Traditionally served in rustic diners, this recipe brings the classic charm of homestyle dining to your home. The technique of slow cooking allows the apples to soak up the sweet, spiced syrup, elevating their natural flavors. This method harkens back to traditional Southern cooking, where time and patience result in something deliciously rewarding.

Recipe Details

Serves: 6-8

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 4 hours

Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 6 cups sliced tart apples (such as Granny Smith)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup apple juice or cider

Directions

1. Peel, core, and slice the apples into 1/4 inch thick slices.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Place the apple slices in the slow cooker and drizzle with melted butter and vanilla extract.
4. Sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture evenly over the apples.
5. Pour the apple juice or cider over the apples.
6. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the glaze is thick.
7. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors.

Tips for Perfect Easy Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples

• Choose firm, tart apples to maintain texture and balance sweetness.
• For an extra caramelized flavor, you can sauté the apples in butter before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Adjust the spices according to taste, adding more cinnamon or a pinch of clove for added warmth.
• For a thicker sauce, cook the apples uncovered for the last 30 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

These fried apples pair beautifully as a topping on vanilla ice cream, alongside pancakes or waffles, or as a side to roasted pork or chicken. They also make a delightful topping for oatmeal or yogurt at breakfast.

Storage and Leftovers

Store leftover fried apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and warm them in the microwave, or gently heat them on the stove over low heat. These can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw and reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

Easy Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are a timeless dish that you’ll want to make time and again. Their comforting flavor and ease of preparation make them a staple in any kitchen. Whether as a dessert or a side, these fried apples bring a taste of the South to your table, inviting warmth and nostalgia. Try this recipe today and discover why it’s a favorite among apple lovers.

Recipe Notes

• Feel free to add a splash of lemon juice for added tartness.
• If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of sugar slightly.
• For a richer flavor, you might substitute some of the apple juice with cider vinegar for a subtle tang.