Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples

Introduction

Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples bring that classic Southern comfort right into your kitchen with almost no effort. Sweet, tender apples simmer slowly in butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar until perfectly soft and syrupy—just like the restaurant favorite. This set-it-and-forget-it recipe is ideal for busy days, holiday meals, or whenever you want a warm, nostalgic side dish or dessert.

Ingredients

3 lbs apples (Golden Delicious or Fuji work best), peeled and sliced
½ cup light brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons water

Preparation

Peel, core, and slice apples into even wedges.
Place apples in the slow cooker.
Sprinkle brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg over the apples.
Add butter pieces evenly on top.
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, stirring once halfway through.
In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch and water to make a slurry.
Stir slurry into the apples during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the sauce.
Stir in vanilla extract before serving.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4–5 hours (LOW)
Total Time: About 5 hours

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 210 kcal
Protein: 1 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fat: 7 g

Values vary based on apple variety and portion size.

Frequently Asked Questions

What apples taste most like Cracker Barrel fried apples?

Golden Delicious apples are closest in texture and sweetness, but Fuji or Gala also work well.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat gently before serving.

Are these fried apples actually fried?

No—despite the name, they’re slow-cooked, creating a soft, caramelized texture.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Absolutely. You can cut the sugar by up to ⅓ without affecting texture.

How should I serve fried apples?

They’re delicious as a side dish, over pancakes or waffles, with pork chops, or served warm over vanilla ice cream.