Introduction to Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
There’s something magical about the aroma of Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples wafting through your home. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly day, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This recipe is perfect for those busy days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a delightful dish that serves as both a side and a dessert. Trust me, your family will be begging for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
Let’s be honest—who doesn’t love a dish that practically cooks itself? These Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are not only easy to make, but they also fill your home with a sweet, comforting aroma. The best part? You can set it and forget it! In just a few hours, you’ll have a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Granny Smith apples: These tart apples are perfect for balancing the sweetness of the sugars. Their firm texture holds up beautifully during cooking.
- Granulated sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create that delicious syrupy sauce.
- Brown sugar: Packed brown sugar brings a rich, caramel-like flavor that elevates the dish.
- Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that adds depth and a cozy aroma to the apples.
- Ground nutmeg: Just a pinch of nutmeg enhances the overall flavor profile, giving it a hint of warmth.
- Lemon juice: This brightens the flavors and prevents the apples from browning too quickly.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter adds richness and helps the sugars dissolve, creating a luscious sauce.
- Cornstarch (optional): If you prefer a thicker syrup, cornstarch can be used to achieve that desired consistency.
- Water (if using cornstarch): This is mixed with cornstarch to create a slurry for thickening the sauce.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
Prepare the Apples
First things first, let’s get those apples ready! Start by peeling the Granny Smith apples. Their tartness is key to balancing the sweetness of the sugars. Next, core them and slice into thick wedges. Aim for about half an inch thick. This thickness ensures they hold their shape while cooking, giving you that perfect bite. Trust me, the texture is just as important as the flavor!
Make the Sauce
Now, let’s whip up that delicious sauce! In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Add the lemon juice and melted butter to the mix. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended. The aroma of cinnamon and sugar will make your mouth water! This sauce is what transforms the apples into a sweet, sticky delight.
Combine Ingredients
Time to bring it all together! Pour the sauce over the prepared apple wedges in your slow cooker. Gently toss the apples to ensure every slice is coated evenly. This step is crucial for that burst of flavor in every bite. You want each apple to soak up that sweet goodness!
Cook the Apples
Cover your slow cooker and set it to LOW. Let those apples cook for 3 to 4 hours. The magic happens here! Stir the apples once or twice during cooking to ensure even heat distribution. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender but not mushy. The smell will be heavenly, and your kitchen will feel like a cozy retreat!
Optional Thickening
If you prefer a thicker syrup, here’s a little trick! Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. About 15 minutes before the cooking time is up, stir this mixture into the apples. This will help thicken the sauce beautifully. Just remember to give it a good stir to incorporate it well. You’ll end up with a luscious, syrupy goodness that’s hard to resist!
Tips for Success
- Use firm Granny Smith apples for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice; it brightens the dish and keeps apples fresh.
- Stir the apples occasionally for even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Adjust the sugar levels to suit your taste; feel free to experiment!
- Serve warm for the best experience, especially with ice cream!
Equipment Needed
- Slow Cooker: A must-have for this recipe. If you don’t have one, a heavy pot on low heat can work too.
- Peeler: For peeling the apples. A paring knife can also do the trick.
- Mixing Bowl: To whisk the sauce together. Any bowl will suffice!
- Whisk: For mixing the sauce. A fork can work in a pinch.
Variations
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture contrast.
- Maple Twist: Substitute maple syrup for granulated sugar for a unique, rich sweetness.
- Vegan Option: Use coconut oil instead of butter and maple syrup instead of sugar for a plant-based version.
- Fruit Medley: Mix in other fruits like pears or peaches for a delightful twist on the classic recipe.
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
- Serve warm over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
- Pair with roasted pork or chicken for a sweet and savory side dish.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
- Enjoy with a cup of hot cider or coffee for a cozy experience.
FAQs about Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
While Granny Smith apples are my go-to for their tartness, you can experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Just keep in mind that the sweetness and texture may vary!
How do I store leftovers of Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Just reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stove before serving!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the apples and sauce the night before. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine them in the slow cooker the next day. It’s a great time-saver!
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples?
These apples are fantastic on their own, but they shine when paired with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even alongside roasted meats. The sweet and savory combo is simply divine!
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes! You can easily make a vegan version by substituting coconut oil for butter and using maple syrup instead of granulated sugar. It’s just as delicious!
Final Thoughts
Making Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience that fills your home with warmth and joy. The sweet aroma wafting through the air brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that dances on your palate, making it hard to resist going back for more. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a dessert, this dish is sure to create smiles around the table. So, roll up your sleeves and let the magic of these apples brighten your day!
Print
Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe Revealed!
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and easy recipe for Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples, perfect as a side dish or dessert.
Ingredients
- 6 large Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored, and sliced thick)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 Tbsp water (if using cornstarch slurry)
Instructions
- Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thick wedges. Place them in your slow cooker.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together both sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and melted butter.
- Combine: Pour the mixture over the apples. Toss gently to coat all slices evenly.
- Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or until apples are tender but not mushy. Stir once or twice during cooking.
- Optional thickening: If you’d like a thicker syrup, whisk cornstarch and water into a slurry. Stir it into the apples during the last 15 minutes of cooking and allow the sauce to thicken.
Notes
- Serve warm as a side dish or dessert.
- Great with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
