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There is nothing like the scent of butter, sugar, and cinnamon filling the kitchen, and these Cracker Barrel Fried Apples fit the bill! This easy copycat recipe brings back memories of visiting Cracker Barrel and ordering a side of their famous fried apples.
Tender apple slices simmer in a rich buttery sauce flavored with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until they’re perfectly soft and caramelized. The result is a warm, cozy dish that’s simple to make and absolutely delicious.
Serve these fried apples alongside pork chops, ham, or meatloaf, spoon them over pancakes or waffles for breakfast, or enjoy them for dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
✨ Before You Begin
✨ Choose the right apples. Golden Delicious apples are the closest match to Cracker Barrel’s famous fried apples because they become tender and buttery as they cook. Granny Smith apples work well too if you prefer a slightly tart flavor.
✨ Cut the apples evenly. Slice the apples into similar-sized wedges so they soften at the same rate and cook evenly.
✨ Use a large skillet. A wide skillet gives the apples room to cook without overcrowding, helping them become tender while maintaining their shape.
✨ Watch the cooking time. The apples are ready when they’re fork-tender but still hold their shape. Overcooking can cause them to become too soft.
✨ Adjust the sweetness if needed. Granny Smith apples are more tart than Golden Delicious, so you may want to add an extra tablespoon or two of sugar to balance the flavor.
✨ Serve them warm. These cinnamon-spiced apples are delicious alongside breakfast favorites, spooned over pancakes or waffles, or served with vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert.
Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Ingredients + Key Notes
Butter: Unsalted butter adds so much flavor to the apples.
Golden Delicious or Granny Smith apples: These varietals will give you the perfect texture and sweetness.
Sugar: Granulated white sugar
Brown sugar: Light brown sugar adds richness and sweet warmth.
Cinnamon: A classic spice that pairs perfectly with apples.
Nutmeg: A warm, nutty spice.
⭐ Pro Tips
⭐ Prevent browning. To keep peeled apples from browning while you prep, place them in a bowl of cold water with a squeeze of lemon juice. A little oxidation won’t affect the flavor, but bright apples make for a prettier finished dish.
⭐ Choose the right apples. Golden Delicious apples are closest to the Cracker Barrel version because they become soft and buttery as they cook. Granny Smith apples provide a slightly firmer texture and a tart flavor.
⭐ Cut apples uniformly. Try to keep the apple wedges about the same size so they cook evenly and become tender at the same time.
⭐ Don’t overcook. The apples should be fork-tender but still hold their shape. Cooking them too long can cause them to break down and become mushy.
⭐ Serve warm. These fried apples are at their best straight from the skillet when the buttery cinnamon sauce is silky and glossy.
How To Make Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
- Melt the butter in a skillet.
- Add the apples, sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the melted butter.
- Stir to coat with butter. Cook and cover for 11-14 minutes. Stir occasionally until the apples are tender.
- Serve and top with vanilla ice cream.
***See the full instructions below.
Storing + Reheating + Freezing + Make-Ahead
Storing: Once cooled, store your Cracker Barrel Fried Apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The apples will continue to soften slightly as they sit.
Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave in 20-second intervals until heated through. You can also reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this recipe. The apples tend to become overly soft and watery once thawed, which affects both the texture and the sauce.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare these fried apples up to 1 day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator, then gently reheat before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
✦ What are the best apples for Cracker Barrel Fried Apples?
Golden Delicious apples are the closest match to the apples served at Cracker Barrel because they become soft, tender, and buttery as they cook. Granny Smith apples are also delicious if you prefer a slightly tart flavor.
✦ Can I make these fried apples ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them up to 1 day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
✦ Why are my fried apples mushy?
Fried apples become mushy when they’re overcooked or sliced too thin. Cook them just until fork-tender and try to keep the wedges about 3/4-inch thick so they hold their shape.
✦ Can I serve fried apples for dessert?
Absolutely! These cinnamon-spiced apples are delicious served warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, pound cake, or cheesecake.
✦ Do I need to peel the apples?
For the most authentic Cracker Barrel-style texture, I recommend peeling the apples. If you don’t mind the texture of apple skins, you can leave them on.
Still have questions? Leave me a comment below and I’ll be happy to help!
More Apple Desserts
- Apple Pie
- Apple Bars
- Caramel Apple Sheet Cake
- Apple Dump Cake
- Apple Bread
- Apple Bread Pudding
- Caramel Apple Dump Cake
More Cracker Barrel Copycat Recipes
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Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4 Golden Delicious or Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and cut into 3/4 inch wedges
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions
- In a large skillet, over medium heat, melt butter (1/2 cup).
- Add apple slices (4), sugar (1/4 cup), brown sugar (1/4 cup), cinnamon (2 teaspoons), and nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon) to melted butter and stir to coat with butter.
- Cook, covered, for 11-14 minutes, stirring occasionally until apples are tender.
Fans Also Made:
Notes
- Prevent browning. To keep peeled apples from browning while you prep, place them in a bowl of cold water with a squeeze of lemon juice. A little oxidation won't affect the flavor, but bright apples make for a prettier finished dish.
- Choose the right apples. Golden Delicious apples are closest to the Cracker Barrel version because they become soft and buttery as they cook. Granny Smith apples provide a slightly firmer texture and a tart flavor.
- Cut apples uniformly. Try to keep the apple wedges about the same size so they cook evenly and become tender at the same time.
- Don't overcook. The apples should be fork-tender but still hold their shape. Cooking them too long can cause them to break down and become mushy.
- Serve warm. These fried apples are at their best straight from the skillet when the buttery cinnamon sauce is silky and glossy.
Have you ever added fresh cranberries to this for a different variation? I have some to use and these apples sound delicious! Thanks
Hi Rhonda. No I haven’t but it sounds like a delicious idea! Let us know if you try it!
I’m not into pies, this one is perfect for me!! The kitchen smelled so so good
Yaaay! That’s so awesome, Marie 🙂 You found the one heheh