Description: Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Cracker Barrel’s iconic Fried Apples, recreated in your own kitchen. This recipe combines tart Granny Smith apples with a rich, buttery brown sugar glaze, infused with the aromatic warmth of apple pie spice. A simple yet irresistible side dish or dessert, these fried apples are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 6 medium apples)
- 1/4 cup apple juice or apple cider
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon apple pie spice (or a mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Preparation:
Getting ready to create this comforting dish is straightforward. Make sure you have all your ingredients measured out and within reach. Preparing the apples correctly is key to achieving the perfect texture.
Step 1: Prepare the Apples Peel, core, and slice the Granny Smith apples. Aim for slices that are about 1/4 inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and retain a bit of firmness. You can use a mandoline for consistent slicing, but a sharp knife works just as well. Place the sliced apples in a bowl.
Step 2: Melt the Butter Place a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt completely. Ensure the butter coats the bottom of the skillet evenly to prevent the apples from sticking.
Step 3: Sauté the Apples Add the sliced apples to the melted butter in the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step softens the apples slightly and allows them to absorb the buttery flavor. Be gentle while stirring to avoid breaking the apple slices.
Step 4: Add Flavor and Simmer Pour in the apple juice or apple cider, then add the packed light brown sugar and apple pie spice. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure the apples are evenly coated with the brown sugar mixture. The aroma at this point will be incredibly enticing.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the apples are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The apples should retain some of their shape while being easily pierced with a fork.
Step 6: Thicken the Glaze In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. This creates a slurry that will thicken the sauce without lumps. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the skillet with the apples.
Step 7: Cook and Glaze Increase the heat to medium and cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze. The glaze should coat the apples beautifully and have a rich, syrupy consistency. Be careful not to overcook, as the glaze can become too thick and sticky.
Step 8: Serve Warm Remove the skillet from the heat and let the fried apples cool slightly. Serve warm as a delightful side dish or a comforting dessert. The flavors will meld even further as they cool slightly, enhancing the overall experience.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Cracker Barrel Fried Apples recipe offers a taste of classic Southern comfort food that’s easy to make at home. The combination of tart apples, buttery richness, and warm spices creates a harmonious blend of flavors that’s both satisfying and nostalgic. It’s a simple recipe that delivers a big impact, making it perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or a cozy night in. The ease of preparation and readily available ingredients make it a go-to choice for a quick yet impressive dish. Moreover, the versatility of this recipe means you can enjoy it as a side, a dessert, or even as a topping for other treats like ice cream or pancakes. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that captures the essence of home-style cooking.
Serving Suggestions:
- As a Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted pork, chicken, or ham for a comforting and flavorful meal.
- As a Dessert: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
- Breakfast Topping: Spoon over pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a delightful breakfast upgrade.
- Snack: Enjoy a warm bowl of fried apples on its own as a comforting snack on a chilly day.
- With Oatmeal or Yogurt: Mix into oatmeal or yogurt for added flavor and texture.
- Alongside Biscuits: Serve with warm, fluffy biscuits for a truly Southern experience.
- In Pies or Crumbles: Use as a filling for apple pies or crumbles for a homemade dessert.
- With Cheese: Pair with sharp cheddar cheese for a sweet and savory flavor combination.
Tips:
- Apple Variety: While Granny Smith apples are traditionally used, you can experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter flavor.
- Spice Adjustment: Adjust the amount of apple pie spice to your liking. You can also use a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice if you don’t have apple pie spice on hand.
- Even Cooking: Ensure the apple slices are of uniform thickness to promote even cooking.
- Don’t Overcook: Avoid overcooking the apples, as they can become mushy. They should be tender but still retain some of their shape.
- Freshness: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Brown Sugar: Pack the brown sugar firmly when measuring to ensure the correct amount.
- Butter Quality: Use good quality unsalted butter for a richer flavor.
- Storage: Store leftover fried apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
- Additions: Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
- Presentation: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Protein: 1-2g
- Sodium: 10-20mg
Conclusion:
Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This recipe allows you to recreate that beloved dish in your own kitchen, with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether served as a side, dessert, or topping, these fried apples are sure to delight your taste buds and evoke memories of home-style cooking. The perfect balance of sweet, tart, and spiced flavors makes this recipe a winner every time. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this Southern favorite and share the joy with your family and friends. It’s a recipe that’s not just about food, but about creating moments and memories.
Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of apple?
A: Yes, while Granny Smith apples are traditionally used for their tartness and firm texture, you can experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala. Keep in mind that sweeter apples will result in a sweeter final dish, so you might want to adjust the amount of brown sugar accordingly.
Q2: How can I make this recipe vegan?
A: To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative. Ensure the apple juice or cider is also vegan-friendly (some apple ciders may contain honey). The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan.
Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the fried apples ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving. The flavors often meld together even more when stored, enhancing the taste.
Q4: What if I don’t have apple pie spice?
A: If you don’t have apple pie spice, you can easily create your own blend by combining cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. A good ratio is 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of allspice for every teaspoon of apple pie spice called for in the recipe.
Q5: How do I prevent the apples from becoming too mushy?
A: To prevent the apples from becoming too mushy, make sure to slice them uniformly and avoid overcooking them. Simmer them until they are tender but still retain some of their shape. Also, using a firmer apple variety like Granny Smith helps maintain the texture.
