Homemade Slow Cooker Fried Apples
Ever wished you could recreate the warm, comforting flavor of restaurant-style fried apples—like those from Cracker Barrel—right in your own kitchen? Picture the cozy scent of cinnamon and sweet apples filling the air as your slow cooker gently works its magic. This guide will walk you through making your very own slow-cooked fried apples, with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Perfect for any day you want to bring a little comfort to the table!
Ingredients You'll Need
To get started, gather these delicious ingredients:
- Apples: 6 medium Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a blend of both for sweet and tart balance
- Butter: ¼ cup unsalted, melted
- Brown Sugar: ½ cup, packed
- White Sugar: ¼ cup
- Ground Cinnamon: 2 teaspoons
- Nutmeg (optional): ¼ teaspoon for added warmth
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon, freshly squeezed
- Cornstarch (optional): 1 tablespoon to help thicken the mixture
Optional Swaps: Want a healthier twist? Try coconut sugar instead of brown sugar, or use coconut oil in place of butter for a vegan-friendly version.
Estimated Time
This recipe is ready in about 90 minutes, which is faster than many traditional methods:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes on the low setting
How to Make It – Step-by-Step
1. Prep the Apples
Wash, peel, and core the apples. Then slice them into thin pieces—around ¼-inch thick—to ensure even cooking.
2. Make the Sweet Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, blend the melted butter, both sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and lemon juice. Stir until the mixture is smooth and syrupy.
3. Coat the Apple Slices
Add the apple slices to the bowl and toss until every slice is well-coated with the sweet spice blend.
4. Into the Slow Cooker
Transfer everything to your slow cooker. If you’re using cornstarch for a thicker sauce, sprinkle it over the top and give it a light stir.
5. Let It Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for about 75 minutes. Stir gently halfway through to ensure even cooking.
6. Ready to Serve
Once the apples are tender and the mixture is fragrant, they’re done! Let them cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Nutrition Breakdown (per ½ cup serving)
- Calories: ~210
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbs: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 31g
- Protein: 1g
This dish is indulgent and flavorful, but portion control is key for those watching their sugar intake.
Healthier Tweaks You Can Try
- Low-Sugar Option: Replace sugars with stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol
- More Fiber: Keep the apple peels on
- Add Crunch: Mix in a handful of nuts like pecans or walnuts
- Diabetic-Friendly: Use apples with a lower glycemic index and minimize added sweeteners
Delicious Serving Ideas
These slow-cooked apples pair beautifully with a variety of meals and desserts:
- Dessert: Over vanilla ice cream or with whipped cream
- Breakfast: On pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal
- Savory Side: Perfect alongside pork chops, turkey, or roasted chicken
- Bonus: Drizzle with caramel sauce for an irresistible twist!
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Soft Apples: Skip Red Delicious or other mushy apples—they don’t hold up well
- Too Sweet: Taste and adjust sugar to avoid overpowering the apple flavor
- Overcooking: Every slow cooker is different—start checking for doneness around the 60-minute mark
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week
- Freezing: Once cooled, place in freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water for moisture
Final Thoughts
Recreating the nostalgic flavor of Cracker Barrel’s fried apples is simple and rewarding. With just a few ingredients and the help of your slow cooker, you’ll have a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether served as a sweet topping or a savory side, these apples are sure to become a favorite.
FAQs
Q: How do I make it less sweet?
A: Cut back on the sugars or use a sugar alternative to better suit your taste.
Q: Can I try a different apple variety?
A: Definitely—Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Braeburn are all great choices.
Q: How do I keep apples from browning while prepping?
A: Toss them in lemon juice right after slicing to slow oxidation.
Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: Yes, make it a day early and refrigerate until ready to reheat and serve.
Q: What dishes go well with these apples?
A: They're great on their own, but shine with pancakes, yogurt, or roasted meats.
Q: Can I adjust the spices?
A: Of course! Try experimenting with cloves, allspice, or a touch of ginger for variation.
Give this cozy recipe a try—you just might find it becomes your go-to treat. Happy slow cooking!