Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples

There’s something deeply comforting about the aroma of cooking apples, especially when they’re combined with cinnamon and sugar. Inspired by the down-home delight that Cracker Barrel is famous for, these slow cooker fried apples are a treat that’s simple to make and delightful to eat. Whether you’re aiming to recreate that nostalgic flavor or simply looking for a cozy addition to your meal, this recipe promises to satisfy your cravings with minimal fuss. Here’s how you can whip up a batch of these scrumptious fried apples right in your slow cooker.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 lbs apples (Granny Smith or Golden Delicious recommended), peeled and sliced into wedges
• 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Apples: Begin by coring, peeling, and slicing your apples into wedges. Although this might be the most time-consuming step, using an apple slicer and corer can significantly speed up the process.
2. Coat with Cornstarch: Place the apple slices in the slow cooker and sprinkle with cornstarch. Stir the apples to ensure they are evenly coated. This helps in thickening the sauce they will cook in.
3. Add Sugars and Cinnamon: Pour the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon over the apples. Stir well to combine, making sure the apples are well coated with this sweet mixture.
4. Mix in Liquids and Butter: Add the melted butter, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the cooker. Stir everything together to ensure the apples are evenly seasoned.
5. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on high for 2 hours. This duration is perfect for the apples to become tender and for the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the cooking time is complete, give the apples a good stir. They should be glossy, tender, and wonderfully fragrant. Serve them warm as a delightful dessert or as a side dish.

Serving Suggestions:

These fried apples are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

• As a dessert: Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic treat.
• As a side: They pair beautifully with pork chops or roasted meats.
• With breakfast: Add them to your morning oatmeal or spoon over pancakes for a sweet start to your day.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Servings: 8

Conclusion:

This Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples recipe brings a touch of Southern charm to your table with ease. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to enjoy the rich, comforting taste of fried apples without any fuss. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just treat yourself, this recipe guarantees a mouthwatering experience. Happy cooking!