Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and slice apples into 1/4-inch thick slices or wedges. Using a mix of tart Granny Smith and sweeter varieties creates the perfect balance of flavors, just like the restaurant version.
Step 2: Mix the Spice Blend
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves if using, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
Step 3: Layer in Slow Cooker
Place sliced apples in a 4-6 quart slow cooker. Pour melted butter over the apples, then sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture evenly over the top. Drizzle with lemon juice to prevent browning and add brightness.
Step 4: Toss to Coat
Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss the apples to coat them evenly with the butter, sugar, and spices. Make sure all apple slices are well covered.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. The apples should be tender but not mushy, and the liquid should be syrupy. Stir gently once halfway through cooking if possible.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry. About 30 minutes before the end of cooking time, stir the cornstarch mixture and vanilla extract into the apples. This thickens the sauce to a beautiful glaze consistency.
Step 7: Final Cook
Continue cooking uncovered for the last 30 minutes on HIGH to allow excess liquid to evaporate and the sauce to thicken. Stir occasionally during this time.
Step 8: Check Consistency
The fried apples are done when the apples are tender, the sauce is thick and syrupy, and coats the back of a spoon. If too thin, leave uncovered a bit longer. If too thick, add a tablespoon of water.
Step 9: Add Final Touch
Stir in vanilla extract if you haven’t already. Taste and adjust sweetness or spices if needed.
Step 10: Serve Warm
Serve the fried apples warm as a side dish or dessert. They’re especially delicious straight from the slow cooker.
Secrets to Perfect Fried Apples
Apple Selection: Granny Smith apples hold their shape and provide tartness that balances the sweetness. Adding sweeter apples like Gala creates depth of flavor.
Don’t Overcook: Check apples at the minimum time. Overcooked apples become mushy applesauce rather than tender slices.
Cornstarch Slurry: This is the secret to achieving that signature thick, glossy sauce that clings to each apple slice.
Slow Cooker Size: A 4-6 quart slow cooker works best. Too large and the apples spread thin and dry out.
Butter is Essential: Don’t reduce the butter – it creates the rich, caramelized flavor that makes these special.
Serving Suggestions
These fried apples are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a side dish with pork chops, ham, bacon, or sausage for breakfast or dinner. They’re perfect alongside pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a special brunch.
For dessert, serve warm fried apples over vanilla ice cream, pound cake, or biscuits. Top with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence. They also make an excellent topping for oatmeal or yogurt.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover fried apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors actually deepen and improve after a day or two. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
These fried apples freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Variations
Caramel Apple: Add 1/4 cup caramel sauce during the last 30 minutes
Apple Pie Fried Apples: Increase cinnamon and add 1/4 teaspoon allspice
Bourbon Apples: Stir in 2 tablespoons bourbon with the vanilla
Cranberry Apple: Add 1/2 cup dried cranberries for the last hour of cooking
Pecan Topped: Sprinkle toasted pecans on top before serving
Maple Cinnamon: Replace half the brown sugar with pure maple syrup
Apple Crisp Style: Top with granola or oat crumble during last 30 minutes
Holiday Spice: Add 1/4 teaspoon cardamom and increase cloves
Make It a Complete Breakfast
Transform these fried apples into a complete breakfast spread. Serve them alongside scrambled eggs, crispy bacon or sausage, buttermilk biscuits with gravy, and cheese grits for an authentic Southern breakfast that rivals any restaurant.
These slow cooker fried apples bring the beloved Cracker Barrel experience right to your home kitchen!
