Easy Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples

Introduction

There’s something comforting and nostalgic about the smell of apples cooking in cinnamon and sugar, wafting through the house. This Easy Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples recipe has been a hit in my home, especially during the colder months. The combination of tart apples, cinnamon, and butter creates a warm, flavorful dish that everyone loves. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish with dinner or as a sweet treat for breakfast, it’s incredibly versatile. My family always looks forward to this dish, and I’m sure yours will too!

Why You’ll Love These Easy Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples

If you’ve ever had the chance to visit Cracker Barrel, you may have tasted their famous fried apples. This recipe brings that same delightful flavor right to your home, but with the added convenience of a slow cooker. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

1. Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: With just a few simple ingredients, this dish transforms into a rich, spiced, and delicious dessert or side dish.
2. Perfect for Any Occasion: These slow cooker fried apples can be served at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any time of the year. They’re perfect for family dinners or even as a topping for pancakes or waffles.
3. Kid-Friendly: The natural sweetness of the apples combined with cinnamon and sugar makes this a dessert or side dish that kids will adore.
4. Set It and Forget It: Simply add the ingredients to your slow cooker, set it, and walk away. The slow cooker does all the hard work, making this a no-fuss recipe.

Ingredients

To make these Easy Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 6 large tart apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup butter (cut into small pieces)

These simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. The tart apples balance perfectly with the sweetness of the sugars and the warmth of the spices, while the butter ensures the apples become tender and coated in a rich, sweet sauce.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples:

1. Prepare the Apples: Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples. You can use any type of tart apple, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for the best results.
2. Mix the Sugars and Spices: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Stir until the mixture is well-combined.
3. Add the Apples to the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced apples into the slow cooker.
4. Sprinkle the Sugar Mixture: Evenly sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture over the apples. Toss the apples gently to coat them well with the sugary blend.
5. Add the Butter: Dot the apples with the small pieces of butter. The butter will melt during the cooking process, creating a rich, flavorful sauce.
6. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let the apples cook for about 4 hours, or until they are soft and the sauce is bubbly.
7. Finish and Serve: Stir the apples thoroughly before serving to make sure they’re evenly coated in the spiced syrup. Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

The nutrition information below is an estimate based on the recipe serving 6 people.

• Serving Size: 1/6 of the recipe
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 47g
• Sodium: 10mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

This recipe is a deliciously indulgent treat, so be sure to enjoy it in moderation. The apples themselves provide fiber, while the butter and sugar offer rich flavor.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours (low heat)

This dish is quick to prepare but does require a few hours to cook. The slow cooker is perfect for hands-off cooking, allowing you to focus on other tasks while it works its magic.

How to Serve

These Easy Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are incredibly versatile and can be served in many different ways. Here are some ideas for serving:

• As a Side Dish: Pair these warm apples with roasted meats, like pork or chicken, for a delicious balance of sweet and savory.
• On Top of Pancakes or Waffles: Spoon the warm apples over pancakes or waffles for an indulgent breakfast treat.
• With Ice Cream: Serve these apples as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cinnamon ice cream for a decadent finish.
• On Oatmeal: Stir some of the warm apples into your morning oatmeal for a flavorful twist.
• With Biscuits: Pair the fried apples with homemade biscuits or scones for a comforting snack or breakfast.

Additional Tips

1. Use Tart Apples: Tart apples like Granny Smith are perfect for this recipe because their natural tartness balances out the sweetness of the sugar.
2. Make It Healthier: If you’re looking for a healthier version, try reducing the amount of sugar or using a sugar substitute. You can also opt for light butter.
3. Add a Pinch of Salt: A pinch of salt can enhance the sweetness of the apples and balance the flavors.
4. Try Different Spices: If you like, experiment with different spices, like ground ginger or cloves, to add a little extra flavor to the apples.
5. Double the Recipe: This recipe is easy to double, and the apples keep well in the fridge for a few days, so making a larger batch is a great idea for leftovers.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen apples instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but fresh apples will give you a better texture and flavor. If using frozen apples, ensure they’re thawed before adding to the slow cooker.

2. Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, you can use any type of apple, but tart apples like Granny Smith or Braeburn are best for this recipe because they hold up well during cooking.

3. How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

4. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can make it in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. The apples will still be delicious after a few days in the fridge.

5. Can I use a sweetener instead of sugar?
Yes, you can use a sugar substitute, such as Stevia or erythritol, but the flavor may be slightly different.

6. Can I freeze this dish?
It’s not ideal to freeze this dish, as the texture of the apples may change once thawed. However, you can freeze the sauce and apples separately for later use.

7. What should I serve with these fried apples?
These fried apples pair well with a variety of dishes, such as roasted meats, pork chops, pancakes, or ice cream.

8. Can I make this on high heat in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook it on high heat, but it will take about 2-3 hours instead of 4 hours on low.

9. How can I make this dish even richer?
To make it richer, add a splash of vanilla extract or a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for extra flavor and texture.

10. Can I make this recipe without butter?
While butter adds richness and flavor, you can skip it if you prefer. You might want to add a little extra sugar or cinnamon to make up for the loss of flavor.

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This Easy Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a comforting dessert or side dish. Whether you’re serving it alongside your favorite meal or indulging in a sweet treat, these apples are sure to impress!

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