Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples ♥

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s so much to adore about Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples. Here’s why they’re a must-try:

  1. Hands-Off Cooking : The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you free to focus on other tasks.
  2. Sweet and Spiced : The perfect balance of sweetness from sugar and warmth from cinnamon and nutmeg.
  3. Versatile : Serve them as a side dish, topping for pancakes, or dessert with ice cream.
  4. Easy to Make : Simple ingredients and minimal prep—perfect for beginners and busy cooks alike.
  5. Make-Ahead Friendly : Prep in advance and reheat when ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to these fried apples lies in their simple yet indulgent combination of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Fried Apples:

  • 6 medium apples (such as Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp, peeled, cored, and sliced)
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
  • Optional : ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (for extra flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to whip up these sweet, spiced apples? Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Prep the Apples

  1. Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges or chunks. Toss them with lemon juice in a large bowl to prevent browning.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

  1. In your slow cooker, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir gently to coat the apples evenly with the sugar and spices.
  2. Dot the mixture with small pieces of butter.

Step 3: Cook the Apples

  1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours , stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  2. The apples are done when they’re soft and caramelized, with a syrupy sauce forming around them.

Step 4: Add Final Touches

  1. If desired, stir in the vanilla extract during the last 10 minutes of cooking for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve the fried apples warm as a side dish, over pancakes or waffles, or topped with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

The magic of Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples lies in the slow-cooking process, which allows the apples to soften and absorb the flavors of butter, sugar, and spices. The combination of granulated and brown sugar creates a rich, caramel-like sweetness, while the cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth. Together, these elements create a dish that’s as comforting as it is indulgent—a true Southern classic.

Variations to Try

While the classic version is divine, here are some creative ways to switch things up:

  1. Add Nuts : Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
  2. Switch the Apples : Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a tangier flavor.
  3. Gluten-Free Option : This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for dietary restrictions.
  4. Vegan Version : Substitute plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly option.
  5. Spice It Up : Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for extra warmth.




 

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