Slow Cooker Fried Apples – Cracker Barrel Copycat Recipe
Introduction
Slow Cooker Fried Apples are a comforting, sweet treat that’s perfect as a side dish or dessert. This Cracker Barrel copycat recipe uses simple ingredients and a slow cooker to create tender, caramelized apples with warm cinnamon flavor.
Ingredients
- 6 medium honey crisp apples, sliced into approximately ¼ inch pieces (about 3 pounds)
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ cup butter, cubed
Instructions
- Step 1: Wash, peel, and slice the apples into approximately ¼ inch pieces.
- Step 2: Arrange the sliced apples evenly across the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Step 3: Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, cornstarch, and cubed butter on top of the apples. Stir gently until the apples are evenly coated.
- Step 4: Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized.
- Step 5: Once tender, turn the slow cooker to WARM and serve the fried apples warm as a side dish or dessert.
Tips & Variations
- Use Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast or a mix of apple varieties for depth of flavor.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves for extra warmth and spice.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to make it a decadent dessert.
- If the mixture is too thin, stir in a little extra cornstarch dissolved in water during cooking to thicken.
Storage
Store leftover fried apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, you can substitute with other firm, sweet, or tart apples such as Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith depending on your preference.
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
Absolutely! Cook the apples in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until tender and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
PrintSlow Cooker Fried Apples – Cracker Barrel Copycat Recipe
This Slow Cooker Fried Apples recipe is a comforting Cracker Barrel copycat that delivers tender, caramelized apples with a sweet cinnamon-butter glaze. Using a slow cooker allows the apples to cook gently to perfection, making it an effortless, flavorful side dish or dessert that pairs exceptionally well with fall meals or holiday feasts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Apples
- 6 medium honey crisp apples (sliced into approximately ¼” pieces; about 3 pounds)
Other Ingredients
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ cup butter (cubed)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Wash, peel, and slice the honey crisp apples into approximately ¼ inch pieces, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
- Arrange Apples in Slow Cooker: Spread the sliced apples evenly across the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker to allow for consistent cooking.
- Add Flavorings: Sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and cornstarch over the apples, then scatter the cubed butter on top. Stir gently until all apple pieces are evenly coated with the mixture.
- Cook the Apples: Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the apples become tender and caramelized.
- Serve Warm: Once the apples are tender and flavorful, switch the slow cooker to WARM setting. Serve the slow cooker fried apples as a delicious side dish or dessert while still warm.
Notes
- Honey crisp apples are preferred for their balance of sweetness and tartness, but Granny Smith or Fuji apples can be used as alternatives.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to avoid apples sticking to the slow cooker and to promote even caramelization.
- Adjust the brown sugar quantity based on desired sweetness level.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream or pancakes for a delightful dessert or breakfast option.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Keywords: Slow Cooker Fried Apples, Cracker Barrel Apples, Slow Cooker Apples, Cinnamon Apples, Caramelized Apples Side Dish, Easy Slow Cooker Dessert
