Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples

These slow cooker Cracker Barrel fried apples are tender, buttery, and sweet with just the right touch of cinnamon. I love making them at home because they remind me of the comforting side dish served at the restaurant, but with the ease of a slow cooker.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s simple to put together with just a handful of ingredients. The apples come out perfectly soft without turning mushy, and the combination of butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon creates a rich sauce that coats every slice. I enjoy serving them as a side dish, a dessert with vanilla ice cream, or even as a topping for pancakes or waffles.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 6 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

1. I start by peeling, coring, and slicing the apples.

2. I place the apple slices into the slow cooker.

3. I melt the butter and mix it with the brown sugar and cinnamon.

4. I pour the mixture over the apples and stir to coat them well.

5. I cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3–4 hours, or until the apples are tender.

6. Once done, I stir gently and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. It takes just 10 minutes to prepare and about 3–4 hours of cooking time in the slow cooker.

Variations

I sometimes add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a deeper flavor. If I want a lighter version, I use less butter and substitute part of the brown sugar with honey. For extra indulgence, I add a splash of vanilla extract right before serving.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, I warm the apples gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. If they thicken too much, I stir in a splash of water or apple juice.

FAQs

Can I leave the apple skins on?

Yes, I can leave the skins on if I prefer more texture, though peeling gives a softer result.

What type of apples works best?

I like to use firm apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji because they hold up well during slow cooking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it a day in advance and reheat before serving. The flavors deepen as it sits.

Do I need to stir the apples while cooking?

No, I don’t usually stir them while they cook. I just let the slow cooker do its job until they’re tender.

Can I freeze fried apples?

Yes, I can freeze them for up to 3 months. I let them cool completely, store in a freezer-safe bag or container, and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

I love how easy and comforting these slow cooker Cracker Barrel fried apples are to make. They’re versatile enough to serve as a side dish, dessert, or topping, and they always bring a cozy, homestyle flavor to the table. This is a recipe I find myself returning to whenever I want something sweet, warm, and satisfying.