Easy Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples

Introduction

I recently tried making Easy Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples for a family dinner, and they were a huge hit! The apples turned out perfectly tender and sweet, with a delightful spiced syrup that was the perfect balance of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of butter. The beauty of this recipe is how simple and hands-off it is, thanks to the slow cooker. You just toss everything in, set it, and forget it, leaving you plenty of time to focus on other parts of your meal. My family couldn’t get enough of these apples, and they disappeared faster than I could have imagined. If you’re looking for an easy yet delicious side dish or dessert, this recipe is definitely one to try.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe

Easy Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are the ultimate comforting dish that combines tender apples with a warm, spiced syrup. This recipe is incredibly simple to make, with only a few ingredients, and the slow cooker does most of the work. The apples become soft and caramelized, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the sugars and the warmth of the cinnamon and nutmeg. Whether you serve them as a side dish with dinner, as a topping for pancakes or ice cream, or even as a dessert on their own, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The best part? It’s a recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. It’s sweet, comforting, and utterly delicious.

Ingredients

• 6 large tart apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions

1. Prepare Apples:
   Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing the apples into thin wedges. You can use any tart variety, such as Granny Smith, for a good balance of sweetness and tartness. Place the sliced apples into your slow cooker.
2. Mix Sugars and Spices:
   In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir the mixture until it’s evenly combined, then sprinkle it over the apples in the slow cooker. Toss the apples gently to ensure they are well-coated with the sugar and spice mixture.
3. Add Butter:
   Cut the butter into small pieces and dot it evenly over the apples. The butter will melt during cooking, adding richness to the sauce and helping to soften the apples.
4. Cook:
   Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Cook for 4 hours, or until the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir the apples occasionally during cooking to ensure they cook evenly and soak in the spiced syrup.
5. Finish and Serve:
   Once the apples are soft and the sauce is bubbly, stir them thoroughly to evenly coat the apples in the delicious spiced syrup. Serve immediately, or let them cool and store them in the fridge for later use.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup
• Calories per Serving: 210 kcal
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 33g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 30g
• Protein: 0g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours (on low)
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes

How to Serve

• As a Side Dish: Serve these fried apples as a comforting side to savory dishes like pork chops, roasted chicken, or even a holiday ham. The sweetness of the apples pairs perfectly with hearty meats.
• On Top of Desserts: Spoon the warm fried apples over a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of warm pie for an extra indulgent treat.
• With Pancakes or Waffles: Use the fried apples as a topping for pancakes or waffles for a cozy, breakfast-inspired dish. The syrupy apples make a delicious and sweet addition.
• As a Snack: These apples also make for a fantastic afternoon snack. Serve them warm for the ultimate comforting treat.
• For a Holiday Feast: Serve these apples at your next holiday dinner. They’re easy to make in bulk, and their festive sweetness will complement any spread.

Additional Tips

1. Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of granulated sugar or brown sugar slightly. You can also add a little more cinnamon or nutmeg to balance the flavor.
2. Use Your Favorite Apples: While tart apples like Granny Smith are best for this recipe, you can experiment with different varieties to suit your taste. Sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp will make a milder, sweeter dish.
3. Add More Spices: Feel free to add other spices like allspice, cloves, or cardamom for a different flavor profile. A dash of vanilla extract also pairs beautifully with the cinnamon and nutmeg.
4. Make it Dairy-Free: If you want a dairy-free version, swap out the butter for a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil. This will still give you a rich, slightly tropical flavor without the dairy.
5. Store Leftovers: Leftover fried apples can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop to enjoy them again later.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
   Fresh apples are recommended, as they hold up better during cooking and give the best texture. Frozen apples can become mushy when cooked.
2. Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
   Yes, you can make this on the stovetop by following the same process in a large saucepan. Cook the apples over low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the sauce thickens.
3. What kind of apples are best for this recipe?
   Tart apples like Granny Smith are ideal for this recipe, as they hold their shape well when cooked and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
4. Can I add nuts to the apples?
   Yes, adding chopped walnuts or pecans would give a nice crunch to the dish. You can stir them in at the end of cooking, or sprinkle them on top before serving.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the apples in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
6. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it only contains apples, sugar, butter, and spices, all of which are gluten-free.
7. Can I make this recipe in a large batch?
   Absolutely! Simply double or triple the ingredients and use a larger slow cooker. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary.
8. Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
   You can experiment with adding pears, peaches, or even berries to the dish for a different fruit flavor. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different fruits may cook at different rates.
9. Can I make this dish spicier?
   If you like a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger to the spice mixture. It will add an extra layer of warmth and complexity.
10. How do I make this recipe less sugary?
    You can reduce the sugar in the recipe by half or substitute with a sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.

Conclusion

Easy Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are the perfect combination of sweet, spiced, and tender, making them an ideal addition to any meal or occasion. Whether served as a side dish with dinner, a topping for desserts, or enjoyed on their own as a comforting snack, these apples are sure to impress. The best part is how simple and hands-off the recipe is, thanks to the slow cooker. This dish is the ultimate fall and winter treat, and it’s one that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this easy and delicious recipe is a must-try!

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