Name: Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 large apples (Granny Smith or Golden Delicious), peeled, cored, and sliced into wedges; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1/2 cup apple juice or apple cider; 3 tbsp unsalted butter, sliced

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

These slow cooker Cracker Barrel fried apples are a warm, cinnamon-spiced comfort dish I love making when I want something cozy and nostalgic. They’re tender, sweet, and full of flavor—just like the ones served at the restaurant, but even easier to make at home. I let the slow cooker do all the work while my kitchen fills with the most amazing smell.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, hands-off, and always turns out delicious. The apples cook down perfectly in the slow cooker, soaking up all the buttery, sugary spice mixture. Whether I serve them as a side dish, dessert, or even over pancakes , these apples are always a hit. They taste like fall in every bite.

i Ingredients

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

Fresh apples (I like to use Granny Smith or Golden Delicious)
Brown sugar
Granulated sugar
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Cornstarch
Lemon juice
Apple juice or apple cider
Unsalted butter, sliced

Directions

I peel, core, and slice the apples into thick wedges.
I add the apples to the slow cooker.
In a small bowl, I whisk together the sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch.
I sprinkle the sugar mixture over the apples.
I drizzle the lemon juice and apple juice (or cider) on top.
I place the slices of butter over the apples.
I cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours, or until the apples are tender but not mushy.
I stir gently before serving to coat the apples in the syrupy sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. It takes me 10–15 minutes to prep the apples and around 3–4 hours to cook on low in the slow cooker. It’s perfect for making ahead or keeping warm for a dinner party or holiday meal.

Variations

Sometimes I use apple cider instead of apple juice for a deeper flavor. I’ve also added a splash of vanilla extract at the end for extra richness. If I want more texture, I toss in a handful of raisins or chopped pecans. And when I’m serving this as dessert, I like to top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

storage/reheating

I store leftover fried apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When I’m ready to reheat them, I warm them in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat. If they’ve thickened too much, I add a splash of water or juice to loosen them up. They reheat beautifully and taste just as good the next day. Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples

FAQs

Can I use canned apples for this recipe?

I prefer using fresh apples because they hold their shape better, but in a pinch, I’ve used canned apple slices—just make sure to reduce the cooking time since they’re already soft.

What are the best apples to use?

I usually go with Granny Smith for their tartness or Golden Delicious for a softer texture. Sometimes I mix a few types for more depth of flavor.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, I double it all the time for family gatherings. I just make sure my slow cooker is large enough and increase the cooking time slightly.

How do I keep the apples from turning to mush?

I cut the apples into thick slices and keep an eye on the cooking time. I also avoid stirring too much during cooking to help them hold their shape.

Can I make this recipe without cornstarch?

Yes, I’ve used flour as a thickener before. It works, but I find cornstarch gives a glossier, smoother sauce.

Conclusion

Slow cooker Cracker Barrel fried apples are one of my favorite easy comfort foods. I like how they fill my kitchen with warm, cinnamon goodness while cooking, and I always find new ways to serve them—whether it’s with breakfast, dinner, or dessert. This recipe is simple, nostalgic, and full of homemade flavor.