Slow 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
Scale
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
