Easy Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe
Cracker Barrel fried apples are one of those classic comfort side dishes that remind you of home cooked meals and cozy family gatherings. With their tender texture, warm spices, and sweet buttery flavor, these apples are the perfect blend of dessert and side dish. They capture that old fashioned country style taste that makes every bite feel special, just like the ones you would enjoy at the restaurant.
What makes this recipe truly wonderful is how simple it is to prepare at home while still delivering that nostalgic flavor. The apples are slowly cooked until soft and coated with a delicious mix of sugar, cinnamon, and butter. The result is a dish that is warm, sweet, and spiced just right. Whether served alongside breakfast, dinner, or even as a dessert, fried apples bring a touch of southern charm to your table and make any meal feel comforting and memorable.
Why You Need This Recipe
You need this recipe because it delivers the same Cracker Barrel style flavor without leaving your kitchen. It is budget friendly and easy to make with basic ingredients you likely already have at home. Unlike more complicated desserts, this dish requires minimal preparation but still feels indulgent and comforting.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. Fried apples can be served as a side with pork chops, ham, or roasted chicken, or they can double as a sweet treat with biscuits, pancakes, or even ice cream. This means you can prepare one dish and enjoy it in multiple ways. The warm cinnamon aroma filling your kitchen will remind you of cozy breakfasts and fall evenings, making it a recipe you will want to return to again and again.
Ingredients
This recipe uses simple pantry staples that come together beautifully. Below is a table with the main ingredients and their calorie count to give you an idea of the nutritional value.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Apples sliced | 6 medium | 570 |
| Butter | 4 tbsp | 400 |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup | 720 |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup | 200 |
| Cinnamon | 2 tsp | 12 |
| Nutmeg | 1/4 tsp | 6 |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | 4 |
This recipe makes about six servings with an average of 318 calories per serving, making it both satisfying and wholesome.
How to Prepare
Begin by washing, peeling, and slicing the apples into uniform wedges so they cook evenly. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it becomes bubbly and aromatic. Add the apple slices and stir to coat them well in the melted butter. Cook for a few minutes until the apples begin to soften slightly.
Next, add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir everything together until the apples are evenly coated with the spiced sugar mixture. Reduce the heat to low and allow the apples to simmer gently. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened into a rich syrup. This usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavor of homemade fried apples.
Pro Tips
Choose firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji to get the best texture since softer apples may become mushy during cooking. If you want a deeper flavor, try adding a splash of apple cider or vanilla extract to the sauce. For those who prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the sugar slightly without losing the delicious flavor. Cooking the apples slowly on low heat is key because it allows the spices to infuse into the fruit while creating a thick syrupy sauce that clings to every slice.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Fried apples pair beautifully with both savoury and sweet dishes. They make a classic side dish with pork chops, roasted chicken, or baked ham, balancing savoury flavours with sweetness. For breakfast, serve them over pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a comforting start to the day. If you want to turn them into dessert, top the warm apples with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or even use them as a filling for pies and turnovers. A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts can also add a lovely crunch that contrasts the tender apples.
Conclusion
Cracker Barrel fried apples are a timeless recipe that brings the warmth and sweetness of southern cooking straight to your table. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy a dish that works equally well as a side or a dessert. Whether you are making them for a family dinner, a cozy breakfast, or a special occasion, these fried apples will quickly become a favourite recipe that everyone looks forward to enjoying.
