Introduction

When I first tried making Easy Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples, I was surprised at how effortlessly delicious the recipe turned out. The apples were soft, sweet, and perfectly spiced, and the house smelled amazing as they cooked low and slow. It quickly became a family favorite—whether served as a dessert, a side dish, or simply as a comforting snack. The slow cooker does all the hard work, and the result is a warm, indulgent treat that pairs perfectly with just about anything. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet night in, these fried apples are sure to impress.

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

Effortless to Make: With just a few ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you can prepare this dish with minimal effort.
Perfectly Sweet & Spiced: The combination of granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a sweet and aromatic sauce that perfectly complements the apples.
Comforting and Cozy: This dish is the epitome of comfort food—soft, sweet apples in a warm, spiced sauce.
Versatile: These fried apples are great for breakfast, a side dish, or a dessert. You can enjoy them with pancakes, on top of ice cream, or as a topping for waffles and French toast.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the irresistible flavor, and it’s an easy recipe to make for gatherings and family dinners.

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

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin, uniform pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and become tender in the slow cooker.

Step 2: Mix Sugars and Spices

In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir to blend the ingredients well.

Step 3: Coat the Apples

Place the sliced apples into the slow cooker and sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture over them. Toss the apples gently to coat them evenly with the sugar and spices.

Step 4: Add Butter

Dot the top of the apples with small pieces of butter. This will melt and combine with the sugars to create a rich, flavorful sauce.

Step 5: Cook the Apples

Cover the slow cooker with its lid, set the cooker to low, and let the apples cook for about 4 hours. Stir occasionally, if desired. The apples will soften, and the sauce will become bubbly and thick.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once the apples are tender and the sauce is thickened, give the mixture a good stir to coat the apples evenly in the sauce. Serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 250 kcal (approximately, varies depending on the type of apples used and exact portion sizes)

Preparation Time

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 4 hours (low)
Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes

How to Serve

As a side dish: Serve alongside your favorite roasted meats or barbecue. The sweetness pairs wonderfully with pork or chicken.
On pancakes or waffles: Top off your breakfast favorites with these warm, spiced apples for a comforting start to your day.
With ice cream or whipped cream: For a quick dessert, serve the apples warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
In a pie: Use these apples as a filling for a homemade pie or as a topping for an apple crisp.
As a topping for oatmeal or yogurt: Add a spoonful of fried apples on top of your morning oatmeal or yogurt for a flavorful, healthy breakfast.

Additional Tips

Use Tart Apples: Tart apples, such as Granny Smith or Jonathans, work best in this recipe. Their firmness and tartness balance the sweetness of the sugar and spices.
Customize the Spice Mix: If you love warm spices, try adding a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to the mix for added depth of flavor.
Store Leftovers Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can easily reheat them in the microwave or slow cooker.
Add a Dash of Vanilla Extract: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract along with the spices.
Make Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare it the night before and let the slow cooker do the work the next day.

FAQ

Can I use sweet apples instead of tart apples?
Yes, you can use sweet apples like Fuji or Gala, but the dish will be a bit sweeter and less tangy than using tart apples.
How do I know when the apples are done cooking?
The apples should be soft and tender, and the sauce should be bubbly and thickened. Stirring them occasionally will help ensure they cook evenly.
Can I add nuts to the fried apples?
Yes! Chopped pecans or walnuts would be a great addition to add a little crunch to this dish.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t contain any flour. Just make sure any optional ingredients, like toppings or mix-ins, are also gluten-free.
Can I make this without butter?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version, or simply omit it for a lighter option.
Can I cook these apples on high in the slow cooker?
While it’s best to cook them on low to allow the flavors to meld, you can cook them on high for 2-2.5 hours if you’re short on time.
What’s the best way to peel and core apples?
Use an apple peeler or a sharp knife to peel the apples, and an apple corer or a small paring knife to remove the cores.
Can I make this ahead of time for a party?
Yes! You can prepare this dish in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it in the slow cooker or microwave before serving.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe, but make sure your slow cooker is large enough to hold the extra ingredients. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
Can I freeze these apples?
Yes, you can freeze the apples in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Conclusion

These Easy Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are the perfect dish for anyone looking to bring a warm, comforting touch to their meals this season. The ease of preparation, combined with the incredible flavor, makes this a go-to recipe for both family dinners and special occasions. Whether served as a side dish, dessert, or snack, this dish is sure to warm the hearts and bellies of those who try it. Simple yet incredibly flavorful, it’s a true testament to the magic of slow cooking. Don’t wait for a special occasion—these fried apples are great any time you want to indulge in a little bit of holiday warmth!