If you’ve ever been charmed by the sweet, tender, and lightly spiced goodness of Cracker Barrel’s fried apples, you’re going to absolutely adore making this Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe right in your own kitchen. This dish is the perfect blend of buttery richness, cinnamon warmth, and naturally sweet apples cooked to tender perfection. It’s a nostalgic treat that brings a comforting, homemade feel to your table — whether you’re serving it alongside breakfast classics or enjoying it as a cozy dessert. Once you try this recipe, those fried apples will become your new favorite go-to for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe is beautifully simple, and each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that iconic flavor and texture you crave. From the soft sweetness of Golden Delicious apples to the inviting aroma of cinnamon, every component enhances the dish in its own special way.
- Salted butter: Four tablespoons impart that rich, creamy base that helps everything blend and caramelize perfectly.
- Granulated sugar: A quarter cup adds a straightforward sweetness that balances the tartness of the apples.
- Light brown sugar (packed): A quarter cup brings deep caramel notes and moisture to the mix.
- Ground cinnamon: One teaspoon infuses warmth and the signature spice that makes this dish irresistibly cozy.
- Golden Delicious apples (peeled and cored, 1/2 inch slices): Two and a half pounds offer a tender, sweet, and mellow apple base that softens just right.
- Apple juice: Half a cup adds a natural fruitiness and moisture to help the apples simmer gently.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon): This thickens the mixture into a luscious glaze that coats the apples perfectly.
How to Make Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe
Step 1: Melt Butter with Sugars and Spices
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the salted butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir constantly as the butter melts and the sugars dissolve, until the mixture becomes smooth and beautifully combined. This step builds that deep caramelized flavor base that’s essential for authentic Cracker Barrel fried apples.
Step 2: Add Apples and Simmer Gently
Once your buttery sugar and cinnamon mixture is ready, toss in the peeled, cored, and sliced Golden Delicious apples. Stir carefully to coat every slice in the sweet cinnamon glaze. Cover the skillet with a lid and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow the apples to cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring gently every few minutes to keep the slices intact. The apples will soften and absorb the flavorful syrup but still hold a tender-crisp texture, which is key to nailing this dish.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the apple juice and cornstarch until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the skillet with the simmering apples, stirring constantly. Continue to cook for another minute or so until the sauce thickens into a glossy, delicious glaze that clings to every apple slice. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture experience.
How to Serve Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a pinch of freshly ground cinnamon or a small handful of chopped toasted pecans on top to add a little visual appeal and crunch. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate this humble dish into a decadent dessert.
Side Dishes
These fried apples aren’t just a dessert — they pair wonderfully with savory dishes like pork chops, roasted chicken, or even as a sweet complement to breakfast staples like pancakes, waffles, or French toast. Their versatile flavor profile adds a cozy, down-home charm to almost any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe atop a warm biscuit or mix them into oatmeal for a fruity, flavorful treat. You can also layer them with yogurt and granola for a delightful parfait that’s perfect any time of day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your fresh fried apples, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making them a convenient option for quick breakfasts or snacks.
Freezing
If you want to extend the life of this delightful dish, you can freeze it. Place the cooled fried apples in a freezer-safe container, leaving a bit of space for expansion. They’ll maintain good quality for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat the fried apples gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave them in short bursts, stirring in between, until they’re heated through. Adding a splash of apple juice or a small knob of butter can help refresh the sauce’s silky texture during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Golden Delicious apples are ideal due to their sweetness and texture, you can experiment with Granny Smith for a tangier flavor or Fuji apples for extra juiciness. Just keep an eye on cooking time since firmer apples may take a bit longer to soften.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the salted butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil to keep it vegan-friendly. The flavor and texture will still be deliciously close to the original.
How can I make the fried apples less sweet?
Simply reduce the amount of granulated and brown sugar by half or to your taste preference. You can also balance the sweetness by adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice during cooking to brighten the flavors.
What other spices can I add besides cinnamon?
For a warm and complex twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or allspice. These spices complement the apples beautifully and deepen the flavor profile.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free as long as you use pure cornstarch and verify that all your ingredients (especially spices and sugars) haven’t been cross-contaminated. It’s a perfect treat for gluten-sensitive diets.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a warm, comforting dish that’s sure to bring smiles around your table, you simply must try this Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe. It’s a nostalgic favorite that’s easier to make than you’d think, and the buttery, cinnamon-spiced apples will fill your kitchen with heavenly aromas. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy breakfast side, a sweet snack, or a delightful dessert, these fried apples are guaranteed to become a beloved tradition in your home.
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Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are a sweet and tender skillet-cooked dessert made with Golden Delicious apples simmered in a rich butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar mixture, finished with a thickened apple juice glaze. This classic Southern-style side or topping captures the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth, ideal for breakfasts, desserts, or alongside savory dishes.
Ingredients
Apples
- 2 1/2 pounds Golden Delicious apples, peeled, cored, and sliced 1/2 inch thick
Syrup Mixture
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Thickening Sauce
- 1/2 cup apple juice
- 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Prepare the Syrup Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir constantly until the butter has melted and the sugars have dissolved completely, creating a smooth syrup base.
- Cook the Apples: Add the peeled and sliced apples to the skillet, ensuring they are evenly coated with the syrup mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring gently every few minutes to prevent the apples from breaking apart, until they become tender-crisp.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the apple juice and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually pour this mixture into the simmering apples, stirring constantly. Continue cooking for about one minute until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the fried apples immediately, either warm as a side dish, topping, or dessert.
Notes
- Use Golden Delicious apples for a naturally sweet flavor and firm texture that holds well during cooking.
- Simmer gently to avoid turning the apples into applesauce; aim for tender-crisp slices.
- If desired, add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg for additional warmth.
- Serve fried apples over pancakes, oatmeal, or ice cream for a comforting treat.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
