There’s something magical about the smell of warm apples simmering away with butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar. It’s the kind of aroma that instantly transports you to cozy family gatherings, holidays filled with laughter, or even a slow Sunday morning where comfort food takes center stage. Inspired by the famous side dish at Cracker Barrel, these Slow Cooker Fried Apples bring that same restaurant-style flavor straight to your home kitchen—but with the ease of a set-it-and-forget-it method.
This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want something sweet and comforting without standing over the stove. Whether you serve it as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, as a topping for pancakes, or as a cozy side dish alongside pork chops, this dish always brings a taste of home. Let’s dive in and make this irresistible treat together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with these slow cooker fried apples. Here are just a few highlights:
- Effortless Cooking – The slow cooker does all the work, freeing up your hands for other tasks.
- Restaurant-Style Flavor at Home – Recreate the iconic Cracker Barrel taste without leaving your kitchen.
- Versatile Dish – Works as a dessert, breakfast topping, or even a savory side dish.
- Family Favorite – The warm, spiced apples are always a hit with both kids and adults.
- Perfect for Holidays – Great for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any gathering where comfort food shines.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delicious slow cooker apples, you’ll need just a handful of pantry staples and fresh fruit.
- 6 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced – Granny Smith works best for a balance of tart and sweet, but Honeycrisp or Fuji are great too.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter – Adds richness and helps create a silky caramel-like sauce.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed – Sweetens the apples and brings deep molasses flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Classic warming spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Adds depth and warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Keeps apples bright and adds a touch of tang.
Step-by-Step Directions
Follow these simple steps to make your own slow cooker fried apples:
- Prep the Apples – Peel, core, and slice the apples. Place them directly into the slow cooker.
- Make the Sauce – In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
- Coat the Apples – Pour the butter mixture over the apples and gently stir to coat.
- Add Flavor Boosts – Mix in vanilla extract and lemon juice.
- Slow Cook – Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender and caramelized.
- Serve & Enjoy – Dish out the warm apples as a side dish, dessert, or topping.
Recipe Notes and Tips
- Choose the Right Apples – Tart apples like Granny Smith hold their shape and balance sweetness. Sweeter varieties like Gala or Fuji will make the dish richer.
- Adjust Sweetness – For a less sweet version, reduce the sugar to 1/3 cup.
- Make it Boozy – Add a splash of bourbon or spiced rum for an adult twist.
- Prevent Sticking – Stir once or twice during cooking for even coating.
- Serving Ideas – Pair with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, pancakes, waffles, or roasted pork.
Serving Suggestions
Wondering how to enjoy these fried apples? Here are some mouthwatering ideas:
- As a Dessert – Scoop over vanilla ice cream or cheesecake for an indulgent treat.
- For Breakfast – Spoon over pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal for a cozy start to the day.
- As a Side Dish – Serve alongside pork chops, ham, or roasted turkey for a sweet-and-savory combo.
- Holiday Spread – Add to your Thanksgiving or Christmas table as a nostalgic side dish.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer – Freeze cooled apples in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat – Warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Variations to Try
Want to make these apples your own? Here are some fun variations:
- Maple Fried Apples – Replace brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a different sweetness.
- Spiced Apple Mix – Add allspice or cloves for a more complex flavor profile.
- Cranberry-Apple Twist – Add dried cranberries during the last hour of cooking for a tart pop.
- Nutty Apples – Stir in toasted pecans or walnuts just before serving for crunch.
Why Slow Cooker Apples Are Perfect for Gatherings
When you’re hosting a holiday dinner or a casual brunch, the last thing you want is to be stuck in the kitchen. This recipe allows you to prep in just 10 minutes, then let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting. Plus, the warm cinnamon aroma will fill your home, making guests feel instantly welcome.
The dish also travels well, making it a great potluck option. Simply cook the apples in your slow cooker, unplug it, and take it along to keep warm until serving time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the apples the night before, refrigerate, and reheat in the slow cooker before serving.
2. Do I have to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for the best texture, but if you prefer a rustic dish, you can leave the skins on.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to hold all the apples.
4. What if my apples get too soft?
Cooking times vary by apple type. Check at the 4-hour mark for tender but not mushy apples.
5. Are these fried apples healthy?
They are indulgent, but you can lighten them up by using less butter and sugar.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes – 6 hours 10 minutes
Final Thoughts
These Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are the epitome of comfort food. With tender apple slices, a buttery spiced sauce, and endless serving possibilities, they’re bound to become a staple in your home. Whether you’re recreating your favorite restaurant memory or simply looking for an easy yet impressive dish, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Next time you’re craving something cozy, let your slow cooker work its magic and fill your kitchen with the irresistible scent of cinnamon-spiced apples.