Craving the comforting taste of Cracker Barrel’s Fried Apples without leaving home? This Simple and Easy Cracker Barrel Copycat Pan Fried Apples Recipe brings that warm, cinnamon-spiced goodness straight to your kitchen. Tender apples, caramelized in butter and sugar, create a delightful side dish or dessert that’s sure to please.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Nostalgic Flavor: Recreates the classic taste of Cracker Barrel’s beloved fried apples.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile: Perfect as a side dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, or as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or ice cream.
Origin of Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Cracker Barrel is a restaurant chain known for its homestyle Southern cooking. Their fried apples are a staple on their menu. While the exact origin of their specific recipe is a closely guarded secret, fried apples themselves have been a Southern comfort food for generations. This copycat recipe aims to replicate that authentic, comforting taste.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 medium Golden Delicious apples, cored, cut into 3/4-inch wedges (about 2 lb)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Equipment
- 12-inch nonstick skillet (or cast iron skillet)
- Small cup
- Whisk
How to Make Simple and Easy Cracker Barrel Copycat Pan Fried Apples
- Melt Butter: In a 12-inch nonstick skillet (or cast iron skillet), melt butter over medium heat.
- Add Apples, Sugars, and Spices: Add apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg; stir to coat.
- Cook Apples: Cover; cook 11 to 14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender. Transfer to serving dish; cover to keep warm.
- Make Cider Mixture: In a small cup, beat apple cider and cornstarch with a whisk; add to the same skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly to blend.
- Simmer Sauce: Simmer 30 to 60 seconds or until thickened.
- Pour Over Apples and Serve: Pour mixture over apples and serve.
Cooking Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
- Apple Variety: Golden Delicious apples are recommended, but you can experiment with other varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji for a slightly different flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Cook the apples until they are tender but still hold their shape. Avoid overcooking them to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Adjust Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar to your preference.
- Use a Non-Stick Skillet: Using a non-stick skillet is essential for this recipe.
Serving Tips
- Warm: Serve warm as a side dish or dessert.
- Toppings: Top with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts.
- Breakfast: Serve alongside pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Apples: Good source of fiber and vitamins.
- Cinnamon: Contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.
Interesting Facts
- You can also make these fried apples in a slow cooker.
- A touch of lemon juice can help prevent the apples from browning.
- Adding a pinch of salt enhances the sweetness of the apples.
Summarized Recipe Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 medium Golden Delicious apples
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
- Melt butter in a skillet; add apples, sugars, and spices; stir to coat.
- Cover and cook until tender.
- Simmer cider and cornstarch until thickened.
- Pour over apples and serve.
