Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are a beloved side dish many enjoy for their sweet, comforting flavors. This slow cooker version captures all the traditional taste with less effort, making it perfect for a fuss-free preparation. Here’s how to make these delightful slow cooker fried apples:
Ingredients:
- 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (choose a soft cooking apple like Golden Delicious, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn for best results)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Apples:
- Start by peeling, coring, and slicing the apples. Aim for even slices so they cook uniformly.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:
- Place the sliced apples in the slow cooker. Pour the melted butter over the apples, ensuring they are well-coated.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture over the buttered apples and stir gently to combine, making sure all apple slices are coated with the spice mix.
- Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook the apples for about 4-6 hours. Alternatively, if you’re short on time, you can set the slow cooker to high and cook them for 2-3 hours. The goal is for the apples to become tender but not mushy, retaining a bit of their structure.
- Serve:
- Once the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly, they’re ready to be served. The apples should be glossy and caramelized from the brown sugar and butter.
Tips:
- Serving Suggestions: These slow cooker fried apples are versatile and can be served as a side dish with pork chops, over oatmeal for breakfast, or as a dessert with ice cream or whipped cream.
- Storage: Leftover fried apples can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm.
- Variations: For added texture, you can stir in some raisins or cranberries during the last hour of cooking. For a less sweet version, reduce the brown sugar or use a sugar substitute.
Conclusion:
Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are a delightful and easy way to enjoy this traditional dish with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving them as a comforting side, a warm breakfast topping, or a sweet dessert, they’re sure to be a hit any time of the day. Enjoy the deep flavors and tender texture of these slow-cooked apples that bring a touch of Southern charm to your table.