Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples

Introduction

Nothing says comfort food quite like warm, tender apples simmered in butter, sugar, and spices. Inspired by the beloved Cracker Barrel restaurant side dish, this slow cooker version makes it incredibly easy to bring that Southern classic into your home. Whether served alongside pork chops, piled over pancakes, or enjoyed as a warm dessert with ice cream, these fried apples are versatile, cozy, and irresistible.

This recipe takes the fuss out of stovetop cooking—your slow cooker does all the work. The result? Perfectly tender apples infused with sweet cinnamon, a hint of nutmeg, and a buttery glaze that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

• 6 large Granny Smith apples – peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Apples:
   Peel, core, and slice apples into wedges. Place them into the slow cooker.
2. Season the Apples:
   In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle evenly over the apples.
3. Add the Butter and Water:
   Pour melted butter and water over the apples. Gently stir to coat.
4. Slow Cook:
   Cover and cook on low for 3 hours (apples should be tender but not mushy).
5. Thicken the Sauce:
   In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and lemon juice. Stir this mixture into the apples. Increase heat to high and cook for an additional 10–15 minutes until sauce thickens.
6. Serve:
   Enjoy warm on their own, or serve with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, pancakes, waffles, pork chops, or biscuits.

Methods

• Slow Cooker Method (Recommended): Produces soft, tender apples with minimal effort.
• Stovetop Method: Simmer apples in a skillet with butter, sugars, and spices over medium-low heat for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add cornstarch slurry at the end to thicken.
• Oven-Baked Method: Combine all ingredients in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes, stirring halfway through.

History

Fried apples have long been a staple in Southern kitchens, often served as a side dish with hearty breakfasts or dinners. Cracker Barrel helped popularize them nationwide, turning this humble dish into a household favorite. The slow cooker version modernizes the tradition, keeping the old-fashioned flavor but making the process easier.

Benefits

• Comforting & Nostalgic: Brings back homestyle Southern flavors.
• Versatile: Works as a side dish or a dessert.
• Economical: Apples are inexpensive and readily available.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Healthier Option: Compared to pies and cakes, it’s lighter but still satisfies sweet cravings.

Serving Ideas (Formation)

• As Dessert: Over vanilla ice cream, with whipped cream, or layered into parfaits.
• At Breakfast: Spoon over pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
• With Dinner: A sweet-savory pairing with pork chops, roasted chicken, or turkey.
• Baked Goods: Use as a filling for pies, cobblers, or turnovers.

Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 220
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Sugars: 38g
• Fat: 6g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 4g

Conclusion & Lovers of This Dish

Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are a crowd-pleaser—beloved by families, kids, and anyone who craves the cozy flavors of apple pie without the crust. From casual weeknight dinners to holiday gatherings, this recipe fits right in.

Food lovers who enjoy apple pie, cobblers, or warm Southern desserts will absolutely fall for this dish. It’s simple, comforting, and always tastes like home.