Homemade Cracker Barrel Fried Apples: Your Cozy Kitchen Classic

Imagine sweet, tender apple slices, perfectly caramelized in a rich, buttery cinnamon glaze. This isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience. Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are a beloved classic that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether you serve them alongside your breakfast pancakes, as a comforting dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or as a unique side dish to a savory meal, these fried apples offer instant satisfaction with their irresistible aroma and delectable taste.

This Cracker Barrel Fried Apples recipe is a true culinary gem, transforming humble apples into a luscious, buttery, and perfectly spiced treat. What makes it even better? You can recreate this iconic restaurant favorite right in your own kitchen using just a few pantry staples, and it comes together in mere minutes.

The versatility of fried apples is truly remarkable. They are a delightful addition to so many dishes. Picture them generously spooned over a stack of fluffy pancakes or crispy waffles for a decadent breakfast. Envision them warm atop a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or paired with a freshly baked biscuit for a simple yet satisfying dessert. Beyond breakfast and dessert, these tender, sweet apples shine as a beloved side dish, complementing everything from roasted pork to grilled chicken. Their warm, inviting flavors make them a perfect accompaniment for any season or occasion.

Expert Tip for Perfect Apple Preparation

To ensure your apple slices remain vibrant and prevent browning while you work, keep them submerged in a bowl of water with a squeeze of lemon juice. This simple step preserves their natural color and freshness. Just remember to thoroughly drain all the water before moving on to the cooking process to avoid diluting your delicious glaze.

Cracker Barrel Fried Apples

This Cracker Barrel Fried Apples recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves that perfect balance of sweet, tart, and spiced flavors. It’s quick, easy, and tastes just like the restaurant version—maybe even better since you can enjoy it fresh at home!

★★★★★

No ratings yet

Print Recipe
Pin Recipe
Rate This

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Diet: Halal

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 4 Servings

Calories: 152 kcal

Author: Amira

Ingredients

• 4-5 medium apples (Granny Smith or Golden Delicious recommended, approximately 4 cups or 500g)
• 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 Tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1 Tablespoon white sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 large lemon (juiced, divided, about 2 tablespoons total)
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons water
• Large bowl of water (optional, for apple prep)

Instructions

1. First, juice your lemon. In a large bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of lemon juice with a generous amount of water. Carefully peel and slice your apples very thinly, aiming for about ¼ inch thick. You’ll need approximately 4 cups (or 500g) of sliced apples. As you slice them, immediately add them to the lemon-water mixture. This crucial step prevents the apple slices from browning, keeping them fresh and appealing. Before proceeding, make sure to thoroughly drain all the water from the bowl.
2. Once drained, transfer the apples to a separate bowl. Toss them gently with the remaining 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg until all the slices are evenly coated. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the glaze.
3. In a large skillet, preferably cast iron, heat it over medium heat. Add the butter, light brown sugar, and white sugar. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon or spatula until the butter is completely melted and the sugars have dissolved, creating a smooth and bubbly glaze. This process should take about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn.
4. Add the seasoned apple slices to the skillet with the glaze. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every apple slice is beautifully coated. Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to cook the apples until they are tender but still hold their shape – avoid overcooking them into a mushy consistency. If, during cooking, the skillet appears too dry or the glaze becomes excessively thick before the apples are fully tender, you may add 1-2 tablespoons of water or apple juice to loosen it slightly. It’s important to add no more than 1-2 tablespoons of liquid to maintain the glaze’s consistency and prevent the apples from becoming watery.
5. To check for doneness, carefully insert the tines of a fork or a toothpick into an apple slice. It should slide in with a slight resistance, indicating tenderness, but the apple slice should not break apart easily.
6. In a small separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a smooth “slurry.” Pour this slurry into the skillet with the apples. Cook gently for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and achieves a beautiful glossy finish. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the fried apples to cool slightly before serving. This brief resting period allows the flavors to meld and the glaze to set perfectly.

Notes for Success

• While 3-4 apples typically yield about 4 cups of chopped apples, apple sizes can vary significantly. It’s always a good idea to have an extra apple on hand, just in case.
• As mentioned in the pro tip, keeping peeled and sliced apples in lemon water prevents oxidation and browning, preserving their fresh appearance. Remember to drain well before cooking!
• For consistently even slices that cook uniformly, consider using a mandolin. This tool helps create perfect ¼-inch slices effortlessly.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 152kcal |
Carbohydrates: 39g |
Protein: 1g |
Fat: 1g |
Saturated Fat: 0.4g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g |
Cholesterol: 2mg |
Sodium: 165mg |
Potassium: 263mg |
Fiber: 5g |
Sugar: 29g |
Vitamin A: 131IU |
Vitamin C: 23mg |
Calcium: 46mg |
Iron: 0.5mg

Tried this Recipe? Pin it for Later!
Mention @AmirasPantry or tag #AmirasPantry!

Mastering the Art of Homemade Fried Apples

Creating these delightful fried apples at home is simpler than you might think, and the payoff is immense. The secret lies in a few key steps that ensure perfect texture and flavor every time. Let’s walk through the process:

Selecting the Right Apples

Choosing the correct apple variety is paramount for achieving the ideal texture in your fried apples. For this recipe, varieties like Granny Smith or Golden Delicious are highly recommended because they hold their shape exceptionally well during cooking, preventing them from turning into an undesirable mush. Granny Smith offers a pleasant tartness that balances the sweetness of the glaze, while Golden Delicious provides a milder, sweeter flavor that still maintains its integrity.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you begin, ensure you have all your ingredients measured and ready. This includes the unsalted butter, both light brown and white sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, fresh lemon, cornstarch, and a little cold water for the slurry. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Preparation is Key: Peel, Slice, and Prevent Browning

Start by juicing your lemon. In a large bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of this fresh lemon juice with plenty of water. Next, carefully peel your apples. Once peeled, thinly slice them – aim for approximately ¼-inch thickness. This uniform thickness is important for even cooking. As you slice each apple, immediately submerge the slices into the lemon-water bath. This simple trick uses the citric acid in the lemon to prevent the apples from oxidizing and turning brown, ensuring your final dish looks as appealing as it tastes. Once all apples are sliced, make sure to drain them thoroughly before moving to the next step. Any excess water will dilute your delicious glaze.

Seasoning the Apples

Once drained, transfer your apple slices to a clean bowl. Drizzle them with the remaining 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, then sprinkle generously with cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gently toss the apples to ensure an even coating of these wonderful spices. The lemon juice not only adds a touch of brightness but also helps the spices adhere beautifully to the apple slices, infusing them with flavor before they even hit the pan.

Crafting the Buttery Glaze

Heat a large, sturdy skillet (cast iron works wonderfully here) over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and white sugar to the pan. Stir continuously as the butter melts and the sugars dissolve, creating a luscious, bubbling glaze. This process typically takes about 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent scorching, ensuring your glaze is smooth and golden.

Frying the Apples to Perfection

Add your seasoned apple slices to the skillet. Gently stir to ensure every single slice is coated in that warm, sugary glaze. Continue to cook over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is for the apples to soften and become tender, but still retain some structure – avoid cooking them until they become mushy. If the glaze starts to thicken too much or the pan seems dry before the apples are done, add just 1-2 tablespoons of water or apple juice to loosen it. This helps maintain the perfect glaze consistency without making the apples watery.

Thickening the Glaze with a Slurry

In a small bowl, combine cornstarch with cold water to form a smooth slurry. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the apples. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens to a beautiful, glossy consistency. The cornstarch gives the glaze a lovely, rich texture that clings to the apples. Once thickened, remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before serving. This brief cooling period helps the glaze set even further and intensifies the flavors.

Choosing the Best Apples for Frying

While Granny Smith is a fantastic choice due to its balance of tartness and firm texture, don’t hesitate to experiment with other varieties to discover your personal favorite. The key is to select apples that hold their shape well under heat.

• Golden Delicious: Known for its mild, sweet flavor, the Golden Delicious apple softens beautifully while still maintaining its shape, making it an excellent candidate for fried apples.
• Fuji: Incredibly sweet and juicy, Fuji apples pair wonderfully with cinnamon. However, because they are less tart, you might consider adding an extra ½ teaspoon of lemon juice to balance the sweetness.
• Honeycrisp: This popular apple boasts a delightful balance of sweetness and subtle tartness. Its firm, crisp texture and juiciness hold up well during cooking, and it maintains a pretty color once peeled.
• Braeburn: With a tartness and flavor profile similar to Granny Smith, Braeburn apples are robust and ideal for spiced apple dishes, ensuring they don’t break down during the frying process.

To Peel or Not to Peel: Your Preference

Absolutely, you can keep the peel on the apples! In fact, the original Cracker Barrel fried apples are often prepared with the skins intact. It truly comes down to personal preference. Leaving the peel on adds a bit of extra texture, fiber, and a rustic charm to the dish. If you choose to keep the skins on, ensure you wash the apples thoroughly before slicing.

Slow Cooker Shortcut: Effortless Fried Apples

Yes, preparing Cracker Barrel-style fried apples in a slow cooker is a fantastic option, especially if you’re looking for a hands-off approach or need to keep them warm for an extended period. It’s perfect for potlucks or holiday gatherings. Here’s how you can do it:

Begin by tossing your peeled and thinly sliced apples with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a tablespoon of lemon juice. Transfer the seasoned apples into your slow cooker. In a separate bowl, melt the butter, then pour it evenly over the apples. Sprinkle both the brown and white sugars along with the salt over the apples. Stir everything gently to ensure all the apple slices are well coated in the buttery sugar mixture. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours, or on high heat for 1 to 1.5 hours, until the apples are delightfully fork-tender. This method yields wonderfully soft and flavorful apples with minimal effort.

Troubleshooting: Preventing Mushy Apples

If your fried apples turned out mushy, it’s a common issue often caused by a few factors. The primary culprit is usually adding too much liquid during the cooking process. When there’s excessive water, the apples tend to “boil” instead of sautéing and caramelizing. Apples already have a high water content, so adding more can cause them to break down quickly. Too much liquid can also wash out the carefully crafted glaze, resulting in a pale, watery, and mushy consistency instead of the rich, glossy finish you’re aiming for. Ensure you stick to the recommended amount of liquid (just 1-2 tablespoons if needed) and use a firmer apple variety for the best results.

Storage and Reheating Best Practices

Enjoying your homemade Cracker Barrel fried apples again is easy with proper storage and reheating techniques.

Storage: Any leftover fried apples should be stored promptly in the refrigerator. First, allow them to cool completely to room temperature. This is crucial to prevent condensation inside the container, which can lead to sogginess. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. An airtight seal will not only keep the apples from drying out but also prevent them from absorbing any unwanted odors from your refrigerator. When stored correctly, these delicious apples will last beautifully for up to 4 days.

Reheat: For the best results, reheat your fried apples on the stove top. Place them in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding just 1-2 teaspoons of water or apple juice. This small amount of liquid will help loosen the glaze and allow the apples to heat through gently without drying out. Stir occasionally until they are warmed to your liking. Alternatively, you can reheat them in your microwave. Place the apples in a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely to prevent splattering. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, which can further soften the apples.

More Ways to Enhance Your Fried Apples

Elevate your fried apple experience with these additional tips and variations:

• Uniform Slices: As mentioned, using a mandolin slicer is a game-changer for achieving uniformly thin apple slices. This ensures that every piece cooks at the same rate, resulting in perfectly tender apples without any undercooked or overcooked bits.
• Sweetener Alternatives: For a different flavor profile, swap out the granulated sugars with 2 to 3 tablespoons of pure maple syrup. Maple syrup offers a natural sweetness with a delightful depth of flavor that complements apples beautifully, adding a rich, earthy note to the glaze.
• Spice It Up: If you’re a fan of complex spice blends, consider substituting the individual cinnamon and nutmeg with a pre-mixed apple pie spice. This blend often includes other warm spices like allspice, ginger, and cloves, adding an extra layer of cozy flavor to your fried apples. You can also add a pinch of ground cloves or a tiny bit of cardamom for a unique twist.
• A Touch of Vanilla: A splash of vanilla extract (about ½ teaspoon) added at the very end of cooking can enhance the overall sweetness and aroma of the dish.
• Add a Crunch: Stir in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts during the last minute of cooking for a delightful textural contrast and nutty flavor.

Explore More Delicious Recipes

Apples, with their natural sweetness, satisfying texture, and cozy aroma, truly enhance every recipe they touch. Don’t you agree? If you enjoyed these homemade Cracker Barrel Fried Apples, you might also love exploring these other comforting and flavorful dishes from our kitchen: