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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

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.
Combine Seasonings: In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix the cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, brown sugar, and cornstarch until well blended.
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.
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.
Serve: Serve the fried apples hot for optimum flavor and texture.
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.
Choose Cooking Mode on Instant Pot: Place the mixture inside the Instant Pot. Select either slow cook or pressure cook as preferred.
Slow Cook in Instant Pot: Use the slow cook function and cook for 4-5 hours until apples are soft.
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.
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