There’s just something so comforting about a warm bowl of Cracker Barrel fried apples, isn’t there? This simple recipe is not only a nod to that classic Southern charm, but it’s also perfect for beginners who want to whip up something truly delightful! With sweet, tender apples bathed in rich butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon, you can enjoy these as a cozy side dish for dinner or a delightful dessert. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll find yourself craving these delicious, cinnamon-flavored apples again and again. Let’s dive into this easy, scrumptious recipe!
Ingredients List
- 4 medium apples, peeled and sliced (I love using Granny Smith or Fuji for their nice tartness!)
- 1/4 cup (that’s half a stick) of butter, for that rich, creamy flavor
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, to give that lovely sweetness
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, because cinnamon makes everything better!
- 1/4 cup water, to help soften those apples as they cook
How to Prepare the Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get those apples sizzling! This recipe is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll have deliciously tender fried apples in no time. First, you’ll want to prepare your apples, then cook them just right, and finally, bring it all together. Ready? Let’s go!
Preparing the Apples
Start by peeling your apples. I like to use a vegetable peeler for this—it makes it a breeze! Once peeled, slice them into thin wedges. You want them to be about a quarter-inch thick so they cook evenly. Firm apples like Granny Smith or Fuji work best because they hold their shape and provide that perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. Now, set those aside; we’ll be using them soon!
Cooking the Apples
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. You want it to be bubbly and fragrant—oh, the smell already is so good! Next, toss in those sliced apples. Stir them gently to coat them in that luscious butter. Now, sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon over the apples, and stir again to combine everything. This is where the magic happens, my friends—those apples will start to glisten!
Final Cooking Stage
Now it’s time to add the water. Pour it in and give it a good stir to mix it all together. Cook the apples for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them tender but not mushy—so keep an eye on them! Just poke a fork into a slice to check for tenderness. Once they’re ready, remove them from the heat, and you’re all set. Serve them warm, and get ready to enjoy the comfort of these delightful fried apples!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Cracker Barrel fried apples turn out absolutely perfect, I’ve got some handy tips! First, don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness to your liking. If you prefer your apples a little less sweet, just cut back on the brown sugar. You can always taste as you go—it’s the best part of cooking, right?
Also, for an extra special touch, consider serving your fried apples with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The cold creaminess pairs beautifully with the warm, cinnamon-flavored apples. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
And remember, stirring occasionally while they cook is key to getting that perfect tender texture. If you notice they’re browning too quickly, lower the heat a bit to ensure they cook evenly without burning. Trust me, these little tweaks will elevate your dish and impress your family or guests!
Serving Suggestions
These Cracker Barrel fried apples are so versatile, and I can’t wait to share some delicious serving ideas with you! First off, they make a fantastic warm side dish for savory meals. Picture them alongside a juicy pork chop or a hearty roasted chicken—oh, the flavors just meld together beautifully! The sweet and cinnamon-spiced apples add a comforting touch that pairs perfectly with all those savory notes.
But wait, there’s more! If you’re in the mood for dessert (who isn’t?), these fried apples shine all on their own. Just serve them warm in a bowl, and feel free to top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. That delightful contrast of warm apples and cold ice cream is pure bliss! You can even drizzle a little caramel sauce on top for an extra touch of indulgence. Seriously, it’s like a cozy hug for your taste buds!
Whether as a side or a sweet treat, the warmth and comfort of these fried apples will make any meal feel extra special. So go ahead, dig in and enjoy every last bite—you deserve it!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk nutrition! While these Cracker Barrel fried apples are definitely a treat, it’s good to know what you’re getting. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values for one serving (about 1/2 cup) of these delicious apples:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Sugar: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But don’t worry too much about the numbers—just enjoy the delightful flavors and the cozy feeling these apples bring to your table!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While I love Granny Smith and Fuji for their flavor and texture, you can use other varieties like Honeycrisp or Braeburn. Just make sure they’re firm so they hold up well during cooking.
How do I store leftover fried apples?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), just place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stove before serving again!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apples ahead of time! Just cook them as directed and let them cool before storing. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them on the stove with a splash of water to get them nice and warm again.
What can I serve with Cracker Barrel fried apples?
These fried apples are so versatile! They pair beautifully with pork chops, roasted chicken, or even pancakes for breakfast. And if you’re feeling indulgent, serve them over vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert!
How can I adjust the sweetness of the fried apples?
Great question! If you prefer a less sweet version, feel free to reduce the amount of brown sugar. You can always taste as you go to find that perfect balance that works for you!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
Let’s talk about the ingredients and a few substitutions you can consider to make this Cracker Barrel fried apples recipe your own!
- Apples: While I adore using Granny Smith or Fuji apples for their perfect combination of tartness and sweetness, feel free to experiment with other firm varieties! Honeycrisp and Braeburn are also fantastic options that will hold up nicely during cooking. Just make sure whatever apples you choose are fresh and firm!
- Butter: If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can swap out the butter for coconut oil or even a plant-based butter. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor, but it can still be delicious!
- Brown Sugar: For a healthier alternative, you can use coconut sugar or even maple syrup to sweeten your apples. If you’re watching your sugar intake, consider using a sugar substitute like Stevia or erythritol. Just remember to adjust the amount since they can be sweeter than regular sugar!
- Cinnamon: For a fun twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon for a little extra warmth and spice. It’s a delightful way to change up the flavor profile!
- Water: If you want to add a bit more flavor to the apples, you could use apple juice instead of water. It’ll give your fried apples an even fruitier kick!
Remember, cooking is all about having fun and making the dish your own. Don’t hesitate to try out different combinations based on what you have in your kitchen or what you enjoy most! Happy cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s super quick and easy to whip up—perfect for beginners or those busy weeknights!
- Full of flavor with that delightful combination of sweet apples and warm cinnamon.
- Versatile enough to be served as a cozy side dish or a delicious dessert.
- Uses simple, everyday ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
- Can be easily customized to fit your taste—like adjusting the sweetness or trying different apple varieties!
- Brings that warm, comforting feeling to your table, making every meal feel special.
- Pairs beautifully with ice cream, adding a touch of indulgence to your dessert!
For more delicious dessert ideas, check out Christmas dessert recipes made easy or apple pie sandwich cookies recipe!
Print
Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe: 7 Steps to Comfort
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This recipe for Cracker Barrel fried apples is simple and delicious. You can enjoy sweet, cinnamon-flavored apples as a side dish or dessert.
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Peel and slice the apples.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced apples to the skillet.
- Stir in the brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Add the water and stir to combine.
- Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender.
- Serve warm as a side or dessert.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Fuji for best results.
- Adjust the sugar based on your taste preference.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream for a tasty dessert.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: cracker barrel fried apples recipe
