Cracker Barrel Copycat Homemade Fried Apples
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction: Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
Craving that down home, Southern taste? Ever wonder how to make those amazing cracker barrel fried apples at home? This copycat recipe nails it! Prepare for a taste of comfort food .
This simple southern dessert recipe brings the warmth of the South straight to your kitchen. It's easier than you think! We're talking a quick 40 minutes from start to finish.
This recipe yields 6 servings. Perfect for sharing or sneaking seconds.
A Taste of the South in Your Kitchen
Cracker Barrel fried apples are a beloved apple side dish . They are the stuff of legends, bringing together tender apples, warm spices, and a touch of sweetness.
This dish isn't just tasty; it's also a decent source of fiber thanks to the apples. Serve this warm apple cinnamon recipe at your next brunch, or honestly, any time you want a little hug from the inside.
What makes this recipe special? The way the apples soften and almost melt in your mouth.
The Magic of Caramelized Apples
Okay, so you want to make these caramelized apples , right? You know, that fried apples recipe everyone raves about? The secret is all in the butter and the careful caramelization.
We're using simple ingredients, but the result is pure magic! Honestly, it's an easy apple dessert that's way more impressive than it sounds.
These cinnamon apples work so well with sweet or savoury dishes. You can eat them with ice cream or even with pork chops! Looking for a unique apple breakfast recipe ? Spoon these beauties over pancakes or waffles for a truly special treat.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Ready to Fry!
So, you wanna make some Cracker Barrel fried apples at home? Good choice! It's way easier than you think, and tastes just like the real deal.
Get ready for the best copycat recipe this side of Tennessee!
Main Ingredients: The Apple of Your Eye
Okay, gather 'round. Here's what you'll need:
- 6 medium apples (about 900g ): Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work a treat.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter ( 57g ). Don't even think about margarine!
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar ( 50g )
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar ( 50g )
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon. Go crazy, if you want!
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg. A little goes a long way.
- 1/4 cup water ( 60ml )
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Apple Tip: For the best apple side dish flavor, mix a tart apple (Granny Smith) with a sweeter one (Honeycrisp). It's a right proper flavor explosion!
Seasoning Notes: Spice it Up!
Cinnamon and nutmeg are your foundation for this apple cinnamon recipe . Honestly, they're the spice rack dream team! A touch of ginger or allspice can add extra warmth.
It's like wrapping yourself in a comfort food hug.
No nutmeg? Allspice is your friend! Don't have lemon juice? Apple cider vinegar works fine. We're all about making it work, innit? It's an easy apple dessert , so no stress!
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
You won't need fancy gadgets. Just the basics:
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Vegetable peeler
- Apple corer (optional, but handy)
- Measuring cups and spoons
If you don't have an apple corer, a sharp knife will do the trick. Honestly, who has time for specialist equipment? Don't sweat it! This fried apples recipe is all about keeping things simple.
See? That wasn't so bad, was it? Next up, we're tackling the recipe itself. Get ready for some seriously tasty caramelized apples ! It's a proper southern dessert you can whip up anytime, even for an apple breakfast recipe !
Cracker Barrel Copycat: Homemade Fried Apples Just Like You Remember!
Oh my gosh, are you craving that Cracker Barrel fried apples goodness? Honestly, who isn't? It's like a warm hug in a bowl, that perfect comfort food that just makes everything better.
Forget queuing up for hours. I've cracked the code! My copycat recipe is super easy and delivers that same apple cinnamon recipe flavor you love.
It's the perfect apple side dish to impress your family.
Prep Like a Pro for Perfect Apples
First things first: mise en place, darling! Peel, core, and slice 6 medium apples (about 900g ). I love a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, best of both worlds! Measure out 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter , 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar , and 1/4 cup (50g) packed light brown sugar .
Mix together 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon , 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg , and a pinch of salt. This prep work makes the whole cooking process a breeze.
step-by-step to Fried Apple Heaven
- Melt 1/4 cup (57g) butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add both sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Add the apple slices. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15- 20 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Pour in 1/4 cup (60ml) water and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Stir.
- Simmer for 5 minutes , until the sauce thickens.
Pro Tips for the Best Darn Apples
Don't overcrowd the pan. If you've got too many apples, cook them in batches. The apples will steam instead of caramelizing, and nobody wants that.
The butter is your friend! It adds richness and helps with caramelization, so don't skimp!
And here's a little secret: To deepen the caramelized apples flavour, reduce the heat to low and let them simmer a little longer.
This easy apple dessert is amazing on its own, or spooned over pancakes for a quick apple breakfast recipe . Enjoy a taste of the South with this delightful fried apples recipe!
Recipe Notes: Making Your Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Amazing!
Okay, so you're ready to whip up some cracker barrel fried apples , huh? Awesome! Here are a few extra nuggets of wisdom to help you nail this copycat recipe.
Honestly, these are tips I’ve learned from batches that turned out okay and batches that were "oh my gosh, this is amazing!"
Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Apple Game
Let's talk presentation. Plating matters! Imagine serving these warm, fragrant caramelized apples in cute little ramekins. Or, go rustic and pile them high on a platter.
They are delicious with pancakes or waffles for an apple breakfast recipe .
You can't go wrong with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Seriously, it's the classic pairing for a southern dessert like this one.
A dollop of whipped cream is also a good shout. For a savory twist, serve these as an apple side dish with roasted pork.
It's a flavour explosion, trust me!
Storage Tips: Keeping the Apple Magic Alive
Got leftovers? No worries. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. They'll be good for about 3-4 days.
When you're ready to reheat, just pop them in the microwave for a minute or two.
Freezing is an option, but it can change the texture a bit. The apples might get a little softer. If you do freeze them, let them thaw completely in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating instructions are to heat until are not frozen
Variations: Make it Your Own!
Want to tweak this fried apples recipe ? Go for it.
For a dairy-free version, use a good quality plant based butter alternative. It works like a charm! You could swap out the sugar for a sugar-free alternative for a cinnamon apples diet friendly version.
If you want a seasonal ingredient swap for something else, you could use pears instead of apples.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite
Okay, let's be real. This isn’t a health food. But hey, apples are full of fiber and vitamins! Each serving has around 200 calories.
The apple cinnamon recipe gives you a little boost of antioxidants. Plus, it’s a seriously satisfying comfort food that's good for the soul.
Alright, that's it. Time to get cooking and create your own amazing version of this easy apple dessert . Have fun and don't be afraid to experiment! And remember, even if they aren't perfect , they'll still taste delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best apples to use for Cracker Barrel fried apples?
For the most authentic taste and texture, a mix of tart and sweet apples works best! Granny Smith apples bring that classic tartness that balances the sweetness, while Honeycrisp or Fuji add a touch of honeyed sweetness. Using a blend gives you that complex flavor profile, just like they do at Cracker Barrel.
How do I prevent my Cracker Barrel fried apples from becoming mushy?
Nobody wants mushy apples! The key is to avoid overcrowding the pan. If there are too many apples, they'll steam instead of caramelize. Cook in batches if needed, and don't overcook them. They should be tender but still retain some of their shape, like a perfectly cooked al dente pasta.
Can I make Cracker Barrel fried apples ahead of time?
Yes, you can absolutely prepare these in advance. Let the fried apples cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. Just like a good Sunday roast, they might even taste better the next day!
Are there any substitutions I can make for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! To make these vegan, use a plant based butter substitute. For a sugar-free option, use a calorie free sugar substitute like Stevia or Monk fruit, adjusting the amount according to package directions. If you don't have lemon juice on hand, a splash of apple cider vinegar will do the trick.
It's all about adapting to your needs, a bit like turning a shed into a chic "she shed!"
How should I store leftover Cracker Barrel fried apples?
Store any leftover Cracker Barrel fried apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water if they seem dry. A microwave or a quick sauté in a pan will bring them back to life.
Think of it as giving your tastebuds a little encore performance!
Can I spice up my cracker barrel fried apples in any unique way?
Absolutely! You could add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for a warmer, spicier flavor profile. To get extra deep flavor, reduce heat to low and let the apples caramelize for a long time.
Maybe add a splash of bourbon or rum during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra kick, like a cheeky cocktail hour upgrade!
Cracker Barrel Copycat Homemade Fried Apples
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 200 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 4g |