If you’ve ever dined at Cracker Barrel, you know their Fried Apples are a beloved side dish that perfectly balances sweetness and warmth. Now, you can recreate this classic recipe at home with just a few simple ingredients. These tender, cinnamon-spiced apples are perfect as a side dish, a topping for pancakes or ice cream, or even as a dessert on their own. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Sweet and Comforting: A perfect blend of cinnamon, sugar, and tender apples.
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Easy to Make: Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal ingredients.
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Versatile: Great as a side dish, dessert, or topping.
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Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
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4 large apples (Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp work well)
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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2 tablespoons cornstarch
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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½ cup water or apple juice
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges or chunks.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, cinnamon, and sugar. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Apples
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced apples and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
- Sprinkle the cornstarch mixture over the apples and stir to coat evenly.
- Pour in the water (or apple juice) and stir gently. The mixture will thicken as it cooks.
Step 5: Simmer
- Reduce the heat to low and let the apples simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and the sauce is thick and glossy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract (if using) during the last minute of cooking.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the fried apples warm as a side dish, dessert, or topping.
Tips for the Best Fried Apples
- Use Firm Apples: Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp apples hold their shape well and provide a nice balance of sweet and tart flavors.
- Adjust Sweetness: Add more or less sugar depending on your preference and the sweetness of the apples.
- Add Spices: Enhance the flavor with a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the fried apples ahead of time and reheat gently before serving.
- Serve with Toppings: Pair with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted pork, chicken, or pancakes.
- For Dessert: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- As a Topping: Use as a topping for oatmeal, waffles, or French toast.
Final Thoughts
These Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are a sweet, comforting, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as a side, a dessert, or a topping, they’re sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. So, grab your ingredients, heat up that skillet, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Cracker Barrel at home.
Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Happy cooking!
Enjoy.