Slow Cooker Fried Apples Delight

Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are a comfort food classic you can recreate in your own kitchen with almost no effort. The slow cooker turns everyday apples and simple ingredients into a gooey sweet side dish or dessert. Their cinnamon scent fills the whole house and takes me straight back to cozy road trips and lazy Sunday brunches.

I first made this recipe for a chilly autumn brunch and could not believe how quickly it disappeared. The warm apples and sweet buttery glaze make everyone smile.

Ingredients

• Granny Smith or Golden Delicious apples: Provide just the right balance of tart and sweet and hold their shape through long cooking. Select apples that feel firm with smooth skins to avoid mushy results.
• Cornstarch: Ensures the glaze thickens to a silky texture. Use fresh cornstarch with no clumping.
• Brown sugar: Gives rich caramel notes and depth of flavor. Choose a bag that is soft and slightly moist.
• Granulated sugar: Brightens the overall sweetness and helps make the apples glossy.
• Ground cinnamon: Creates warmth and a classic apple pie aroma. Opt for freshly opened spice for the most aromatic result.
• Melted butter: Adds creaminess and helps everything meld together. I use salted butter for a little savory contrast.
• Lemon juice: Balances the sweetness and prevents browning. Pick a fresh lemon for the best flavor.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor and gives a cozy homemade taste. Pure vanilla extract works best here.

Instructions

Prep the Apples:

Peel core and cut the apples into even slices about half an inch thick. Uniform pieces ensure even cooking and keep your fried apples from falling apart.

Coat with Cornstarch:

Add the apple slices to your slow cooker and sprinkle them with the cornstarch. Toss the apples so every piece gets coated evenly which helps the glaze set up perfectly later.

Add Sweeteners and Cinnamon:

Pour in the brown sugar granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Gently mix everything together so the apples get sticky and fragrant.

Add the Wet Ingredients:

Drizzle in the melted butter lemon juice and vanilla extract. Stir until the apple slices are well coated and the sugars are starting to dissolve.

Slow Cook to Perfection:

Cover the slow cooker and set it to high heat. Let the apples cook for two hours stirring once halfway through. The apples will get tender and the syrup will start to thicken.

Finish and Serve:

Check that the apples are fork tender and coated in a glossy glaze. Serve the apples warm straight from the slow cooker or spooned over pancakes or ice cream.

I absolutely love how the cinnamon fills my house while these are cooking. My daughter always comes wandering into the kitchen asking if she can have a little taste while they are still warm. You will not believe how comforting a simple apple dish can be until you try it homemade.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in a sealed glass container in the refrigerator. These apples keep well for four to five days and taste amazing reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave. They will thicken the longer they chill.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the type of apples depending on what you have at home. Honeycrisp and Fuji work well for sweeter fruit while Pink Lady adds a tart kick. If you need a dairy free version use coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative instead of traditional butter.

Serving Suggestions

These apples shine alongside pancakes or waffles but are just as wonderful spooned over oatmeal or vanilla yogurt. Try using them as a topping on pound cake or even serving on the side with roasted pork for a southern twist.

Cultural and Historical Context

Fried apples are a beloved southern staple thanks to their comfort and versatility. Cracker Barrel made them famous as a homey side on their menu. Traditionally prepared in a skillet this slow cooker version makes it super simple for anyone to enjoy a genuine taste of the South no road trip required.

Seasonal Adaptations

Great with a touch of ground cloves in the fall months. Switch brown sugar for maple syrup for extra autumn flavor. In summer try serving over vanilla ice cream with fresh berries.

Success Stories

I have served these slow cooker apples at holiday gatherings and potlucks and they always draw recipe requests. Friends love how nostalgic and flavorful they are. Sometimes we double the batch for big family breakfasts and not a single bite goes to waste.

Freezer Meal Conversion

The cooked apples freeze beautifully. Simply let them cool and portion into freezer safe bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently for a make ahead treat that retains all the spice and sweetness.

Homemade fried apples are pure comfort in a bowl. You will want to make these again and again for any meal of the day.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of apples work best?

Firm varieties like Granny Smith or Golden Delicious hold shape and deliver balanced tartness and sweetness.

→ Can I prepare this without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can bake covered in an oven-safe dish at low heat, checking for fork-tender apples and saucy glaze.

→ How do I prevent apples from becoming mushy?

Use firm apples, slice them evenly, and avoid overcooking. Stir gently once during cooking.

→ What can I serve with these apples?

Try pairing with pancakes, ice cream, oats, or as a topping for pork dishes or French toast.

→ Is it possible to make ahead?

Absolutely. Reheat gently before serving, adding a splash of water if needed to refresh the glaze.