Oh my goodness, have you ever tasted the magic of slow cooker Cracker Barrel fried apples? They’re a sweet, cozy hug in a bowl! This recipe is all about simplicity—throw everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. I remember the first time I made these for a family gathering; the kitchen smelled heavenly, and my grandma couldn’t stop raving about them! It was such a hit that I had to share the secret with everyone. Seriously, the combination of tender apples with that warm cinnamon-sugar goodness is pure bliss. Trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful slow cooker fried apples:
- 6 medium apples, peeled and sliced (my favorites are Granny Smith for a tart kick or Honeycrisp for sweetness!)
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (this gives a lovely caramel-like flavor)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (the more, the merrier, if you’re a cinnamon lover like me!)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (trust me, it adds that rich creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (to brighten the flavors and keep those apples from browning)
Feel free to mix it up a bit! You can use different types of apples depending on your taste—maybe even toss in some nutmeg for an extra spice kick. Adjust the sugar based on how sweet you like your apples; I sometimes add a bit more if I’m feeling indulgent!
How to Prepare Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making these heavenly slow cooker fried apples! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how just a few steps can create such a delightful dish. Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by peeling and slicing your apples. Aim for even slices so they cook uniformly—nobody likes mushy bits!
- In a separate bowl, mix together the packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This is where the flavor magic happens!
- Now, place those beautiful apple slices right into your slow cooker. Layer them gently; no need to rush!
- Sprinkle that delicious sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the apples. Make sure every slice gets a taste of that goodness!
- Dot the top with unsalted butter and drizzle in the fresh lemon juice. It adds a fresh zing that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. Trust me, the smell will be irresistible!
- Once the apples are tender and warm, they’re ready to serve. I like to enjoy them straight from the slow cooker, but you can also dish them up in a bowl!
And there you have it! A simple, fuss-free way to enjoy a classic dish. Just remember to taste and adjust the sweetness to your liking—everyone’s palate is different, and I love to tweak it a bit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: Just a few minutes to slice and toss everything in the slow cooker, and you’re done!
- Easy cleanup: The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with minimal dishes to wash—yay!
- Delicious flavor: The combination of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and buttery goodness makes for an incredibly tasty treat.
- Perfect as a side dish or dessert: Whether you serve it alongside savory meals or as a comforting dessert, it fits any occasion.
- Great for gatherings: Impress your friends and family with this crowd-pleaser; everyone loves a warm bowl of fried apples!
Tips for Success with Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
To make sure your slow cooker cracker barrel fried apples turn out perfectly every time, here are some of my go-to tips! First, choose your apples wisely—Granny Smith apples are fantastic for a tart contrast, while Fuji or Honeycrisp are sweet and juicy. You can even mix varieties for a fun flavor combo! Next, don’t be shy with the sugar; if you like your apples sweeter, feel free to add a little extra brown sugar. Just keep in mind that the natural sweetness of the apples will also shine through.
When it comes to your slow cooker settings, low and slow is the name of the game! Cooking on low for 4-6 hours lets the flavors meld beautifully. And remember, you can always check the apples a bit earlier if you’re in a hurry—just make sure they’re tender before serving. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to comfort food like these slow cooker cracker barrel fried apples, it’s nice to know what you’re indulging in! Here’s the estimated nutritional information per serving (about 1/2 cup):
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 5mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 1g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on typical ingredients used, and can vary depending on the specific apples and other ingredients you choose. Enjoy every delicious bite guilt-free!
FAQ About Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any variety of apples you like. I love mixing tart Granny Smith with sweet Fuji or Honeycrisp for a balanced flavor. Just make sure to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your apples!
How do I know when the apples are done cooking?
The apples are ready when they’re tender and easily pierced with a fork. This usually takes about 4 to 6 hours on low. If you’re short on time, you can check them after 4 hours to see if they’re done to your liking!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the apples and store them in the slow cooker insert in the fridge the night before. Just pop it in the slow cooker in the morning and set it to cook. It’s a great way to have a warm treat ready for dinner or dessert!
What can I serve with these fried apples?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! They’re fabulous on their own, but you can also serve them over pancakes, waffles, or even ice cream for a decadent dessert. They make a lovely side for pork chops or roasted chicken, too!
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Definitely! If you prefer less sweetness, just reduce the amount of brown sugar. You can taste the mixture before cooking and adapt it to your preference. The natural sweetness of the apples will still shine through!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftovers? No problem! Storing your slow cooker cracker barrel fried apples is super easy. Just let them cool down to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 5 days—perfect for those late-night cravings or quick snacks!
When it comes to reheating, you have a couple of options. You can simply pop them in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, stirring halfway through, until they’re warmed to your liking. If you prefer, you can also reheat them on the stovetop over low heat. Just be sure to stir gently to avoid breaking the apple slices apart. A splash of water or a bit of butter can help keep them moist and delicious!
And let’s be honest, these fried apples taste just as good reheated as they do fresh out of the slow cooker. You might even find yourself enjoying the flavors even more as they meld together overnight. Yum!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got a delicious batch of slow cooker cracker barrel fried apples, let’s talk about how to elevate your meal even more! These tender, sweet apples are versatile and can complement a variety of dishes. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:
- Pancakes or Waffles: Pour these warm fried apples over a stack of fluffy pancakes or crispy waffles for a heavenly breakfast treat. Trust me, it’s the ultimate way to start your day!
- Ice Cream: Serve them warm over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple yet indulgent dessert. The contrast of hot and cold is just delightful!
- Pork Chops: These fried apples make a fantastic side dish for savory meats, especially pork chops. The sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the pork.
- Oatmeal: Mix them into your morning oatmeal or yogurt for a tasty and nutritious breakfast. You’ll feel like you’re treating yourself every day!
- Biscuits: Try serving them alongside buttery biscuits for a comforting Southern-style brunch. The combination of flavors will have everyone asking for seconds!
Feel free to get creative! These fried apples can enhance any meal, and they’re sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy experimenting with different pairings!
For more delicious apple recipes, check out this Cracker Barrel fried apples recipe for a delightful twist!
Print
Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples: 5 Comforting Tips
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple recipe for making delicious fried apples in a slow cooker, inspired by Cracker Barrel.
Ingredients
- 6 medium apples, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Peel and slice the apples.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Place apple slices in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the apples.
- Add butter and lemon juice on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until apples are tender.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use your favorite apple variety.
- Adjust sugar according to your taste.
- Great as a side dish or dessert.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: slow cooker cracker barrel fried apples
