Copycat Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe

Introduction

These Copycat Cracker Barrel Fried Apples bring the comforting sweetness and warm spices of a classic Southern side dish right to your kitchen. Made with tender apples cooked in a buttery cinnamon sauce, they’re perfect for breakfast or as a tasty dessert topping.

Ingredients

• 12 cups sliced apples (peel on; sour varieties like Granny Smith or homegrown are best)
• 3 tablespoons cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons corn starch
• 3/4 cup salted butter (melted)
• 1/2 cup apple juice

Instructions

1. Step 1: For slow cooker method, spray the crock pot with cooking spray and add the sliced apples.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, brown sugar, and cornstarch until well combined.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle the spice and sugar mixture over the apples. Pour melted butter and apple juice on top, then stir until apples are evenly coated.
4. Step 4: Cook on high for 3-4 hours or until apples are tender and the sauce thickens.
5. Step 5: Serve the fried apples hot for the best flavor.
6. Step 6: For Instant Pot, place coated apples mixture into the pot.
7. Step 7: To slow cook in Instant Pot, use the slow cook setting for 4-5 hours or until soft.
8. Step 8: To pressure cook, choose high pressure and cook for 3 minutes (thin slices), 5 minutes (medium slices), or 8 minutes (thick slices), then manually quick release pressure.
9. Step 9: Serve immediately or keep warm until ready to serve.

Tips & Variations

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for balance against the sweetness, or mix apple varieties for a more complex flavor.
• Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
• For a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch slightly or cook a bit longer on low heat.
• Serve over pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, or vanilla ice cream for a delicious treat.

Storage

Store leftover fried apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat or microwave until warmed through. Stir occasionally to maintain the sauce consistency.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh apple juice or store-bought?

Both fresh and store-bought apple juice work well. Choose unsweetened apple juice for better control over sweetness.

Can these fried apples be made on the stove instead of slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes, cook the apples in a large skillet over medium heat with the same ingredients, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the sauce thickens, about 15-20 minutes.

Copycat Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 65 reviews

• Author: lilan
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes to 5 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Copycat Cracker Barrel Fried Apples recipe recreates the sweet, cinnamon-spiced, tender fried apples classic from the beloved restaurant, made easy at home using either a slow cooker or an Instant Pot. Featuring a perfectly balanced blend of cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, brown sugar, and butter, this dish is a comforting and flavorful side or topping that pairs wonderfully with breakfast or desserts.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Apples

• 12 cups sliced apples (preferably peel on, Granny Smith or home grown sour apples)

Spices and Sweeteners

• 3 tablespoons cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons corn starch

Liquids and Fats

• 3/4 cup salted butter (melted)
• 1/2 cup apple juice

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray the inside of the crock pot with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, place the sliced apples into the crock pot evenly.
2. Combine Seasonings: In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix the cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, brown sugar, and cornstarch until well blended.
3. Coat the Apples: Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the apples. Pour the melted butter and apple juice on top. Stir gently to ensure all apples are coated with the spices and liquids.
4. Cook in Slow Cooker: Set the crock pot on high and cook for 3 to 4 hours, or until the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
5. Serve: Serve the fried apples hot for optimum flavor and texture.
6. Instant Pot Option – Mix Ingredients: Prepare the cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, brown sugar, and cornstarch mixture as above. Add to the sliced apples, pour melted butter and apple juice over, and mix well.
7. Choose Cooking Mode on Instant Pot: Place the mixture inside the Instant Pot. Select either slow cook or pressure cook as preferred.
8. Slow Cook in Instant Pot: Use the slow cook function and cook for 4-5 hours until apples are soft.
9. Pressure Cook in Instant Pot: Use high pressure cooking. Cook times are 3 minutes for thin sliced apples, 5 minutes for medium slices, and 8 minutes for thick slices (such as those cut with an apple slicer). After cooking, manually quick release the pressure.
10. Serve or Keep Warm: Either serve immediately or keep the apples warm in the Instant Pot’s keep warm setting.

Notes

• Using sour apples like Granny Smith is preferred as they hold texture better and offer a nice tangy contrast to the sweet sauce.
• Adjust the brown sugar amount to taste for more or less sweetness.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add an extra half tablespoon of cornstarch.
• For thinner apples, reduce pressure cooking time to avoid overcooking.
• These fried apples can be served over pancakes, waffles, pork chops, or enjoyed on their own as a warm dessert.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 to 5 hours depending on method
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: fried apples, cracker barrel, slow cooker fried apples, instant pot fried apples, cinnamon apples, comfort food, fall recipe