Description
This slow cooker version of Cracker Barrel’s famous fried apples delivers the same sweet, cinnamon-spiced flavor with minimal effort. Perfect as a comforting side dish, dessert, or topping for pancakes and waffles.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 6 large apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) apple juice or apple cider
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the apples:
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into 1/2-inch thick wedges. Place them in the slow cooker.
2. Mix the dry ingredients:
- In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and cornstarch. Sprinkle the mixture over the apples and toss to coat evenly.
3. Add the liquid and butter:
- Pour the apple juice or cider over the apples. Dot the apples with the cubed butter.
4. Cook the apples:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours, or on high for 2–3 hours, until the apples are tender but not mushy. Stir gently halfway through cooking.
5. Add vanilla and serve:
- Stir in the vanilla extract. Serve warm as a side dish, dessert, or topping.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over vanilla ice cream or pound cake for dessert.
- Use as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal.
- Pair with pork chops or roasted turkey for a sweet and savory combo.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to hold their shape during cooking.
- Add 1/4 cup of raisins or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.