Warm, tender, and packed with sweet cinnamon flavor, Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are the ultimate comfort dessert. These delicious apple slices are slowly simmered in a buttery cinnamon-sugar glaze that caramelizes gently, making each bite melt in your mouth. Whether served on their own or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, they capture that down-home flavor you’d expect from Cracker Barrel—right in your own kitchen.

This dish is a nostalgic favorite, often evoking memories of cozy family meals or weekend breakfasts. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make using a slow cooker, meaning your house fills with the irresistible aroma of spiced apples while you go about your day. It’s a perfect recipe for fall gatherings, potlucks, or when you’re craving an easy yet impressive dessert.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples

6 large golden delicious apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
½ cup brown sugar (packed)
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
½ cup apple juice or cider
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Pinch of salt

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by peeling, coring, and slicing the apples into uniform wedges. Golden Delicious apples are perfect for this recipe due to their natural sweetness and ability to hold their shape during cooking. Place the sliced apples into the slow cooker.

Step 2: Mix the Spices and Sugars

In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is well incorporated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apples in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Melt the butter and mix it with the apple juice (or cider), lemon juice, and cornstarch. Stir until smooth and pour this buttery mixture over the apples and sugar.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set your slow cooker to low and cook the apples for about 3–4 hours, stirring occasionally if possible. The apples should be tender but not mushy, and the sauce should be thick and glossy.

Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Once cooked, serve the fried apples warm. They’re perfect as a side dish, dessert, or even over pancakes or waffles for breakfast. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 6 servings)

Calories: 215
Total Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 45mg
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 36g
Protein: 0g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary depending on exact ingredient measurements and brands used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of apples are best for this recipe?

Golden Delicious apples are ideal due to their natural sweetness and ability to hold shape. You can also use Fuji or Honeycrisp for a slightly firmer texture.

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes! You can prepare the apples on the stovetop by simmering all ingredients in a covered skillet over medium-low heat for about 30–40 minutes.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, and make sure your sugar is certified vegan.

Can I add other fruits?

Yes, pears or peaches pair wonderfully. Just make sure to adjust cooking times slightly as their texture differs from apples.

Is this dish meant to be served as a dessert or side?

Both! It’s often enjoyed as a side with pork or breakfast dishes but makes a fantastic dessert as well.

Can I use ground cloves or allspice?

Yes, a pinch of cloves or allspice adds extra depth. Use sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.

What can I serve with fried apples?

They’re great with pancakes, waffles, pork chops, roasted chicken, or just a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Why is lemon juice used in the recipe?

Lemon juice enhances flavor and helps prevent the apples from browning as they cook.

Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples

Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
Total Time: 31 minute
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Ready to make your kitchen smell like a cozy country restaurant? These Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are just what you need. They’re sweet, buttery, perfectly spiced, and oh-so-comforting. This easy recipe is perfect when you’re looking for quick breakfast ideas, a warm dessert, or a cozy side for dinner. Soft apple slices are slow-cooked with brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter until tender and rich with flavor. It’s an easy recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl. Serve them warm on pancakes, beside pork chops, or on their own for a healthy snack that’s still indulgent.

Instructions

Peel, core, and slice the apples, then place them into the slow cooker.
In a bowl, mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the apples evenly.
Combine melted butter with apple juice, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Mix well.
Pour the liquid mixture over the apples in the slow cooker.
Cook on low for 3–4 hours until apples are tender but not mushy.
Stir occasionally during cooking if possible.
Serve warm and enjoy as a side, topping, or dessert.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3–4 hours (low)
Category: Side Dish