Copycat Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe
Introduction
These Copycat Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are a delightful blend of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples perfect as a dessert or a savory side. With a buttery, sweet sauce and warm spices, they bring a comforting Southern touch to any meal.
Ingredients
- 4 large firm baking apples (Granny Smith or Golden Delicious)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 3/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Step 1: Rinse the apples, then peel, quarter, and core them using a sharp knife. Slice the apples thinly and toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Step 2: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until bubbly. Add the apple slices and stir to coat them in butter. Cook for about 3 minutes until the juices start to thicken slightly and the apples begin to soften.
- Step 3: Stir in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Reduce the heat to medium and cook gently until the apple slices are fork-tender, being careful not to overcook.
- Step 4: If the sauce hasn’t thickened enough, remove the apple slices with a slotted spoon. Whisk the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then add it to the sauce and simmer until thickened. Return the apples to the skillet and stir gently to coat.
- Step 5: Taste and adjust spices if needed. Serve warm alongside whipped cream or ice cream for a dessert, or pair with pork chops for a sweet and savory combination.
- Step 6 (Optional Crock Pot Method): Combine all ingredients, including cornstarch, in a slow cooker. Cook on high for 1 1/2 hours until the apples are tender. Check the texture after 1 hour to avoid overcooking.
Tips & Variations
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a tangier flavor or Golden Delicious for a sweeter result.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract for extra warmth and complexity.
- Serve over pancakes or oatmeal for a tasty breakfast twist.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.
Storage
Store leftover fried apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. They do not freeze well because of the soft texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, you can use any firm baking apples, but keep in mind that tart apples like Granny Smith will give a tangier flavor, while sweeter varieties like Golden Delicious will produce a softer, sweeter dish.
What can I serve with fried apples besides pork chops?
Fried apples are delicious served with breakfast items such as pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal. They also pair well with roasted meats like chicken or turkey, or as a warm dessert topped with ice cream or whipped cream.
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Copycat Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Copycat Cracker Barrel Fried Apples recipe delivers tender, sweet, and warmly spiced apples cooked to perfection. Featuring a buttery, cinnamon and nutmeg-infused sauce, these fried apples make a delightful dessert when served with ice cream or a perfect sweet side with pork chops.
Ingredients
Fried Apples
- 4 large firm baking apples (Granny Smith or Golden Delicious)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 3/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Rinse the apples thoroughly, then peel, quarter, and core them using a sharp knife. Slice the apples thinly and toss them with freshly squeezed lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Melt Butter and Begin Cooking Apples: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium-high heat until it becomes bubbly. Add the apple slices to the pan, stirring to coat them evenly with the melted butter. Cook for about 3 minutes until the juices thicken slightly and the apples begin to soften.
- Add Sugars and Spices: Stir in the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, freshly grated nutmeg, and kosher salt. Reduce the heat to medium, and continue cooking the apples gently until they become fork-tender, taking care not to overcook them to maintain texture.
- Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce is not thick enough, remove the apple slices with a slotted spoon. Mix the cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry, then whisk it into the sauce. Simmer until the sauce thickens, then gently stir the apples back into the thickened sauce.
- Final Taste and Serve: Taste the fried apples and adjust the spices if desired. Serve the warm fried apples as a dessert with whipped cream or ice cream, or pair them with pork chops for a delicious sweet and savory meal.
- Optional Crock Pot Method: Combine all ingredients, including cornstarch, into a slow cooker. Cook on high for 1 1/2 hours, checking after 1 hour, until apples are tender.
Notes
- Use firm baking apples like Granny Smith or Golden Delicious to hold their shape well during cooking.
- Tossing apples in lemon juice prevents them from oxidizing and turning brown.
- Adjust the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg based on your preferred spice level.
- For a smoother sauce, ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved before adding.
- These fried apples pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or pork dishes.
- If using the crock pot method, stirring occasionally can help even cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Copycat Cracker Barrel Fried Apples, fried apples recipe, spiced apples, dessert apples, cinnamon apples, apple side dish, southern fried apples
