Copycat Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe
Introduction
These Copycat Cracker Barrel Fried Apples capture the perfect balance of sweet and spiced flavors. Tender slices of Golden Delicious apples are cooked in a buttery cinnamon sugar sauce, making a delightful side dish or dessert.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 ½ pounds Golden Delicious apples (peeled and cored, ½ inch slices)
- ½ cup apple juice
- 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon, stirring constantly until smooth and blended.
- Step 2: Add the sliced apples to the skillet and stir to coat them evenly. Cover with a lid and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring gently every few minutes to keep the apples intact and tender-crisp.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the apple juice and cornstarch, mixing well. Slowly pour this mixture into the skillet while stirring constantly. Cook for an additional minute until the sauce thickens, then serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Use Granny Smith apples for a tarter twist, or a mix of apple varieties for more depth of flavor.
- For extra warmth, add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves along with the cinnamon.
- Serve warm over pancakes, waffles, or vanilla ice cream for a comforting treat.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving to maintain the tender texture and warm flavors.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, you can substitute with other firm apples like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith depending on whether you prefer a sweeter or tarter taste.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, replace the salted butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan.
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Copycat Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Copycat Cracker Barrel Fried Apples recipe delivers tender, cinnamon-spiced apples cooked in a buttery sugar glaze, closely mimicking the beloved restaurant’s classic side dish. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack, these fried apples are easy to prepare on the stovetop and feature a perfect balance of sweetness and warm spices.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 4 Tablespoons salted butter
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 ½ pounds Golden Delicious apples (peeled and cored, cut into ½ inch slices)
- ½ cup apple juice
- 1 Tablespoon + 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Prepare sugar and butter mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir constantly until the butter melts and the sugars dissolve, creating a smooth glaze.
- Cook the apples: Add the peeled and sliced apples to the skillet, coating them evenly in the sugar and butter mixture. Place a lid on the pan and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow the apples to cook for 15-20 minutes until they become tender but remain crisp, stirring gently every few minutes to prevent the apples from breaking apart.
- Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the apple juice and cornstarch, mixing well to dissolve the cornstarch completely. Gradually pour this mixture into the skillet with the simmering apples while stirring constantly. Continue cooking for about one minute until the sauce thickens and coats the apples nicely.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the fried apples warm immediately as a delicious side or dessert.
Notes
- Use Golden Delicious apples or any firm, sweet apple variety for the best texture and flavor.
- Peeling the apples ensures a smooth and tender final texture, but you can leave the skins on for added fiber and color if preferred.
- Adjust the brown and granulated sugar proportions for a sweeter or less sweet dish according to taste.
- Be gentle when stirring to keep apple slices intact and avoid mashing.
- This dish can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave; add a splash of apple juice if the sauce thickens too much after cooling.
- For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract along with the cinnamon.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: fried apples, Cracker Barrel copycat, cinnamon apples, apple side dish, autumn recipe, easy fried apples
