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

Scale

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