1. Home
  2. Recipes
  3. Cracker Barrel Apples

Easy Slow Cooked Apples

By: Casey Updated on Mon, 20 Jan 2025 20:06:04 GMT Perfect Sides
Pin it Share it Send it Print it Jump To Recipe
Casey, recipe creator at Cooking with Casey
By Casey

Casey shares simple, delicious recipes and inspiring stories, making cooking fun and accessible for all.

Updated on Mon, 20 Jan 2025 20:06:04 GMT

Read it →
A bowl of caramelized apple slices glistens with syrupy sauce, with whole apples visible in the background. Pin it
A bowl of caramelized apple slices glistens with syrupy sauce, with whole apples visible in the background.

I've been making these Slow Cooker Fried Apples ever since my first bite at Cracker Barrel years ago. The way my kitchen fills with that sweet cinnamon aroma while they cook takes me right back to those cozy restaurant visits. These tender glossy apples swimming in buttery sauce have become my go-to recipe whether I'm making breakfast sides or dessert.

Why This Recipe Works

Your slow cooker does all the work here transforming fresh apples into that amazing Cracker Barrel taste we all love. The apples turn out perfectly tender every time and that warm spiced sauce will have everyone asking for seconds. I love how versatile they are too whether spooned over ice cream or served alongside dinner.

Everything You Need

  • Apples: About 3-4 pounds I like using Granny Smith or Golden Delicious they hold their shape beautifully.
  • Cornstarch: Just 2 tablespoons gives us that perfect sauce thickness.
  • Brown sugar: A quarter cup adds such nice richness.
  • Granulated sugar: Another quarter cup balances everything out.
  • Cinnamon: One teaspoon makes everything cozy and warm.
  • Butter: A quarter cup melted makes everything glossy and rich.
  • Lemon juice: Two teaspoons brightens all the flavors.
  • Vanilla extract: One teaspoon adds that perfect finishing touch.

Let's Get Cooking

Start with Your Apples:
Peel core and slice them into nice wedges. An apple slicer makes quick work of this.
Add Some Thickness:
Pop those apple slices in your slow cooker toss with cornstarch until they're all coated.
Sweet and Spice:
Sprinkle both sugars and cinnamon over your apples give everything a good stir.
Final Touches:
Pour in your melted butter lemon juice and vanilla then stir it all together.
Let it Cook:
Cover and let it go on high for 2 hours then stir one last time for that perfect gloss.

Ways to Enjoy

  • Sweet Treat: We love them warm over vanilla ice cream.
  • Perfect Pairing: They're amazing next to pork chops or roasted meat.
  • Morning Magic: Try them over oatmeal or pancakes for breakfast.
A white bowl filled with glossy, caramelized apple slices, garnished with cinnamon.
A white bowl filled with glossy, caramelized apple slices, garnished with cinnamon.

My Best Tips

  • Pick Good Apples: Firm ones like Granny Smith or Golden Delicious work best.
  • Even Coverage: Make sure every apple slice gets coated in the good stuff.
  • Final Stir: Don't skip that last stir it makes the sauce perfectly glossy.
  • Make it Your Own: Sometimes I add nutmeg or maple syrup for something different.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of apples work best?

Granny Smith or Golden Delicious apples hold their shape well during cooking and provide the perfect balance of tart and sweet.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Yes, peeling is recommended for the best texture. An apple peeler/corer tool makes this task much quicker.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, they keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days and can be reheated when needed.

How can I serve these apples?

Enjoy them alone, over ice cream, with pancakes, or as a side dish with pork or chicken.

Can I make this without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can simmer them on low heat in a covered pot for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4.37 from 329 votes

Cracker Barrel Apples

Prep Time:
15 Minutes
Cook Time:
120 Minutes
Total Time:
135 Minutes
Servings:
8
A bowl of caramelized apple slices glistens with syrupy sauce, with whole apples visible in the background.
Rate recipe Print it Pin it Send it

Sweet, tender apples slowly cooked with cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla. Just like Cracker Barrel's famous fried apples but made in a slow cooker.

Ingredients

  • 3-4 lbs apples, peeled and sliced into wedges.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch.
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted.
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Instructions

1.

1. Add Apples: Add apples and cornstarch to slow cooker. Stir to coat.

2.

2. Mix Sugars: Mix in both sugars and cinnamon.

3.

3. Combine Liquids: Add melted butter, lemon juice, and vanilla. Stir well.

4.

4. Cook: Cover and cook on high for 2 hours.

5.

5. Stir Before Serving: Stir before serving.

Notes

  1. A slow cooker version of Cracker Barrel's famous fried apples. These tender, sweet apples can be served as dessert, breakfast topping, or side dish.

Tools You'll Need

  • Slow cooker.
  • Apple peeler/corer (optional).

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (butter).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 245
  • Total Fat: 6 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 48 g
  • Protein: 1 g