Slow Cooker Fried Apples – Cracker Barrel Copycat Recipe

Introduction

Enjoy the comforting taste of Cracker Barrel’s famous fried apples with this easy slow cooker recipe. Tender, caramelized apples infused with warm cinnamon and vanilla make a perfect side or dessert. Let your slow cooker do the work for a hands-off, delicious treat.

Ingredients

• 6 medium honey crisp apples, sliced into approximately ¼” pieces (about 3 pounds)
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ¼ cup butter, cubed

Instructions

1. Step 1: Wash, peel, and slice the apples into approximately ¼” pieces.
2. Step 2: Arrange the sliced apples evenly across the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
3. 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.
4. Step 4: Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized.
5. Step 5: Once the apples are tender, switch the slow cooker to WARM and serve your slow cooker “fried” apples as a side dish or dessert.

Tips & Variations

• Use Granny Smith apples instead of Honeycrisp for a tarter flavor that balances the sweetness.
• Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or cloves for extra warmth and spice.
• Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delicious dessert variation.
• Stir the apples gently to avoid mashing them and keep nice slices.

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 stovetop over low heat until warmed through. Stir before serving to restore the caramelized sauce texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other varieties like Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala apples. Each will offer a slightly different flavor and texture, with Granny Smith providing a tangier taste and Gala offering sweetness.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for this recipe to achieve the soft, tender texture typical of fried apples. However, if you prefer more texture and nutrients, you can leave the skins on after thoroughly washing the apples.

Slow Cooker Fried Apples – Cracker Barrel Copycat Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 84 reviews

• Author: Hugo
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Slow Cooker Fried Apples recipe is a delicious Cracker Barrel copycat that makes tender, caramelized apples flavored with cinnamon, vanilla, and brown sugar. Cooked low and slow in the crockpot, these apples are perfect as a side dish or dessert with a buttery, sweet glaze.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fruit

• 6 medium honey crisp apples (sliced into approximately ¼” pieces; approximately 3 pounds)

Dry Ingredients

• ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 Tablespoons cornstarch

Wet Ingredients

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup butter (cubed)

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Instructions

1. Prepare Apples: Wash, peel, and slice the apples into approximately ¼” thick pieces to ensure even cooking and a tender texture.
2. Arrange in Slow Cooker: Place the sliced apples evenly across the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker to allow uniform heat distribution during cooking.
3. Add Flavorings: Sprinkle brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and cornstarch evenly over the apples. Add the cubed butter on top and gently stir until all ingredients are well coated.
4. Cook Apples: Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. Cook until the apples become tender and develop a caramelized, rich flavor.
5. Serve: Once the apples are tender, switch the slow cooker to WARM. Serve the slow cooker fried apples warm as a delicious side dish or dessert.

Notes

• Use honey crisp apples for the best balance of sweetness and firm texture.
• Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even caramelization.
• Adjust sugar quantity based on desired sweetness and apple tartness.
• Optional: Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 to 3 hours
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: slow cooker fried apples, Cracker Barrel fried apples copycat, slow cooker apple dessert, caramelized apples, cinnamon apples, easy slow cooker recipes