Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are the coziest way to bring classic comfort flavors right into your kitchen without ever turning on the stove. Imagine slices of tart, crisp apples softened to perfection, cloaked in a glossy cinnamon-sugar glaze with just a hint of buttery richness. Each bite bursts with nostalgia, echoing the warmth and welcoming aroma of a countryside breakfast—all while your slow cooker does the heavy lifting. If you ever craved that signature Cracker Barrel taste at home, this recipe will become your go-to treat for fall mornings, Sunday suppers, or anytime you need a touch of sweet, Southern-inspired happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing fancy here—just a handful of honest, simple ingredients coming together to create the magic that is Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples. Each one plays a special role, whether bringing tang, warmth, or that essential syrupy texture.
- 6-8 firm apples (Granny Smith or Golden Delicious): Firm apples hold their shape and provide a lovely balance between sweetness and tartness—whether you’re into classic green or sweeter yellows, both work beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: This thickens the luscious glaze so it clings perfectly to every apple slice—no runny sauce here.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Brown sugar melts into deep, caramel notes that really amp up the coziness.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: A bit of classic white sugar keeps the sweetness just right and lets the apple’s own flavor shine through.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The smell and taste of cinnamon is the essence of the dish—don’t skimp!
- 1/4 cup melted butter: Butter gives the apples their rich, glossy finish and tons of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: This adds a subtle brightness and helps the apples keep their color and shape.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla ties all the other elements together and brings gentle warmth to the glaze.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Start by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples into even wedges. Uniform slices ensure that each piece cooks at the same rate, so you end up with perfectly tender apples throughout. Firm apples like Granny Smith or Golden Delicious really make all the difference—they stay satisfyingly biteable instead of turning into applesauce.
Step 2: Coat with Cornstarch
Toss the apple slices directly into your slow cooker, then sprinkle the cornstarch right on top. Give them a gentle stir to evenly coat every wedge. This simple move ensures your finished Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples come out with that signature thick and shiny glaze, instead of a watery sauce.
Step 3: Add Sugars and Cinnamon
Sprinkle the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon over the apples. Stir gently, just enough to combine everything. The mix of sugars with cinnamon not only enhances flavor but starts to pull out the apples’ juices, creating the base for your luscious sauce. Avoid over-stirring so the apple slices don’t break up.
Step 4: Pour in Butter, Lemon Juice, and Vanilla
Next, drizzle the melted butter, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract all over the apple mixture. These ingredients melt and mingle as the apples cook, building up a sweet, rich aroma that fills your kitchen. Give everything a soft toss so every slice is enrobed in flavor.
Step 5: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover the slow cooker and set it to high for about 2 hours. Give everything a gentle stir about halfway through. When the apples are fork-tender and bathed in glossy syrup, your Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are ready to enjoy—no fuss, no watching over the stove!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
Garnishes
Serve your Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon, a dollop of whipped cream, or a handful of chopped pecans if you like a little crunch. Even a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side turns this comforting dish into an effortless dessert.
Side Dishes
These apples are the ultimate supporting star for breakfast or brunch. Try them alongside golden pancakes, buttermilk biscuits, or French toast for that farmhouse feast feel. In the evening, they pair beautifully with roast pork or turkey, adding a sweet-tart counterpoint that guests love.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, layer Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples over oatmeal, yogurt parfaits, or even as a topping for cheesecake. You can spoon them into mini mason jars for party-perfect treats or serve as a warm filling in crepes and galettes. The possibilities are as limitless as your imagination.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples (lucky you!), transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to keep the glaze from turning watery.
Freezing
Want to savor those fall flavors a little longer? These apples freeze surprisingly well. Once fully cooled, pack them in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for about three months—perfect for prepping ahead of busy holiday seasons.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the apples gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If they’ve thickened up too much in the fridge, add a splash of apple juice or water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring in between to keep them evenly heated.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples?
Yes! While Granny Smith and Golden Delicious are favorites for their firmness and flavor, you can experiment with other tart, crisp varieties like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. Just avoid softer apples as they tend to lose their shape in the slow cooker.
Is it possible to double the recipe?
Absolutely. If your slow cooker is large enough, simply double all the ingredients. Add about 30 extra minutes to the cooking time and stir gently to ensure even cooking and coating.
What if I want to make Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples less sweet?
You can easily adjust the sugar to suit your preference. Reduce the brown and granulated sugar by a few tablespoons, tasting as you go. If you like a tarter flavor, up the lemon juice just a touch.
Are there optional add-ins that pair well?
Definitely! A bit of freshly grated nutmeg or allspice, a splash of maple syrup, a drizzle of bourbon, or even a handful of chopped nuts gives this dish a whole new dimension. Get creative and make it your own!
Can Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples be made in advance for entertaining?
Yes, they’re actually perfect for make-ahead menus. Prepare and cook the apples as directed, let them cool, and then reheat gently before serving. They’ll taste just as cozy as they did fresh from the slow cooker.
Final Thoughts
If comfort had a flavor, it just might be these Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples. They’re simple, soul-warming, and endlessly versatile—proof that a handful of humble ingredients can create something truly memorable. Try them out, share with loved ones, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself coming back for seconds (or thirds)!
Print
Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These warm, cinnamon-sugar-drenched apples are tender, buttery, and packed with comforting fall flavors—just like Cracker Barrel’s famous fried apples, but easier with a slow cooker.
Ingredients
Apples:
- 6–8 firm apples (Granny Smith or Golden Delicious), peeled, cored, and sliced
Cornstarch Mixture:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Sugar Mix:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Butter Mixture:
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and slice apples into uniform wedges.
- Mix Sugars and Cinnamon: Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Stir gently.
- Combine Butter and Flavorings: Pour in melted butter, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix to combine.
- Serve: Once apples are fork-tender and coated in glaze, serve warm.
Place apple slices in the slow cooker and sprinkle with cornstarch. Stir to coat evenly.
Cover and cook on high for 2 hours, stirring once halfway through.
Notes
- Use firm apple varieties to prevent mushiness.
- Stir gently to maintain apple shape.
- Optional add-ins: nutmeg, allspice, maple syrup, bourbon, or chopped nuts for variations.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
