Cracker Barrel Fried Apples

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These fried apples capture that classic Cracker Barrel flavor soft, sweet, and perfectly spiced. The combination of brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter creates a luscious caramel-like coating that complements the tartness of Granny Smith apples. They’re quick to make, versatile, and a comforting treat for fall or anytime you crave a sweet, fruity dish.

Ingredients

• 4 large green Granny Smith apples, cored and sliced (peeled or unpeeled)
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon (or apple pie spice)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Lemon juice (optional, to prevent browning)

Directions

1. Prepare the apples: Core and slice apples. Optionally, peel them and toss lightly with a few drops of lemon juice to prevent browning.
2. Melt butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
3. Add sugars and spices: Stir in granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon (or apple pie spice), and salt until well combined.
4. Cook the apples: Add apple slices to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the butter-sugar mixture. Cook for 8–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender but not mushy.
5. Serve: Serve warm as a side dish, topping for pancakes or waffles, or with ice cream for dessert.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 12 minutes
• Total time: 22 minutes

Variations

• Use a mix of apple varieties for a more complex flavor.
• Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
• Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
• Serve over oatmeal, pancakes, French toast, or ice cream for a dessert twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover fried apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Make it earlier in the day and reheat gently before serving.

Can I use other sweeteners instead of sugar?

Yes, maple syrup or a low-carb sweetener can be used, though texture and sweetness may vary.

Can I freeze fried apples?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may become mushy upon thawing.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, use a plant-based butter alternative.

How do I prevent apples from becoming too mushy?

Cook apples until just tender, and avoid over-stirring. Slightly firmer slices hold their shape better.

Conclusion

Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are a quick and delicious way to enjoy tender, sweet, and spiced apples any time of year. Perfect as a dessert topping, side dish, or breakfast accompaniment, they bring warmth, flavor, and a touch of Southern charm to your table.

Cracker Barrel Fried Apples

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Enjoy the sweet, warm flavors of the South with these Cracker Barrel Fried Apples. Tender slices of Granny Smith apples are caramelized in butter and brown sugar, spiced with cinnamon, and finished with a touch of sweetness. Perfect as a side dish, dessert topping, or over pancakes or oatmeal.

• Author: Julia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings
• Category: Side Dish / Dessert
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

4 large green Granny Smith apples, cored and sliced (peeled or unpeeled)

1/2 cup butter

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

1 tablespoon cinnamon (or apple pie spice)

1/2 teaspoon salt

Lemon juice (optional, to prevent browning)

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Instructions

1. Core and slice apples. Optionally peel and toss lightly with a few drops of lemon juice to prevent browning.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
3. Stir in granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon (or apple pie spice), and salt until well combined.
4. Add apple slices, stirring to coat in the butter-sugar mixture. Cook for 8–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender but not mushy.
5. Serve warm as a side dish, topping for pancakes or waffles, or with ice cream for dessert.

Notes

Use a mix of apple varieties for a more complex flavor.

Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.

Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.

Serve over oatmeal, pancakes, French toast, or ice cream for a dessert twist.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg