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Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe

Tender sliced apples slow-cooked with brown sugar, cinnamon, butter, and apple juice until soft and coated in a rich, glossy cinnamon sauce. This beginner-friendly recipe makes a warm Cracker Barrel-inspired side dish or dessert with only 15 minutes of prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 medium firm apples, such as Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, or Honeycrisp
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • ¾ cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • ½ cup apple juice
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water

Equipment

  • 5–6 quart slow cooker
  • Vegetable peeler
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Spatula or large spoon

Method
 

  1. Select 6 medium firm apples without bruises or soft spots.
  2. Peel and core each apple, then cut it into even slices about ½ inch thick.
  3. Place the slices in a large bowl and gently toss with 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
  4. Combine ¾ cup brown sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon salt in a small bowl.
  5. Arrange the prepared apples evenly inside a 5–6 quart slow cooker.
  6. Sprinkle the seasoned brown sugar over the apples. Distribute ¼ cup butter over the top and pour ½ cup apple juice around the edges.
  7. Cover and cook on HIGH for 2–2½ hours. Begin checking at 2 hours. The apples should be tender but still hold their shape.
  8. Whisk 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water until smooth. Gently stir it into the hot apple mixture. Cover and cook on HIGH for another 15–20 minutes.
  9. Turn off the slow cooker and let the apples rest uncovered for 10 minutes before serving warm.

Notes

  • Best apples: Granny Smith holds its shape well and gives the dish a pleasant tart edge. Golden Delicious makes softer, sweeter apples. A mixture of both works especially well.
  • Watch the cooking time: Different slow cookers heat differently. Check the apples early to prevent them from becoming mushy.
  • For thicker sauce: Allow the cornstarch mixture to cook for the full 15–20 minutes, then let the apples rest before deciding whether more thickener is needed.
  • Cooking on LOW: Cook for about 4–5 hours, checking the texture before the end of the cooking window.
  • Storage: Keep cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Serving ideas: Serve warm with pancakes, waffles, biscuits, pork chops, pound cake, or vanilla ice cream.