These Slow Cooker Fried Apples are tender, buttery, and full of warm cinnamon flavor. Inspired by the iconic Cracker Barrel side dish, this homemade version is even better — made with fresh Honeycrisp apples, brown sugar, and vanilla for a caramelized, melt-in-your-mouth finish. Perfect on their own or served over pancakes, oatmeal, or ice cream, this dish brings cozy comfort to any meal or occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. Slow cooking enhances the natural sweetness of the apples while creating a soft, caramelized texture. The ingredients are simple and pantry-friendly, and the result is versatile — equally delicious as a side dish, topping, or dessert. Plus, your kitchen will smell like warm apple pie as it cooks.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 3 pounds Honeycrisp apples, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup melted unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
Directions
- Peel and slice the apples into even wedges (about ½-inch thick).
- Add the apple slices to the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the cornstarch, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon over the apples.
- Add the vanilla extract, melted butter, and lemon juice. Toss everything gently to coat the apples evenly.
- Cover and cook on high for 2 hours, stirring once halfway through.
- Once the apples are fork-tender and a light syrup has formed, serve warm.
Optional: Serve over vanilla ice cream, pancakes, waffles, or as a side with pork dishes or breakfast plates.
Servings and timing
- Yield: 5 servings
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 2 hours
- Total time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 319 kcal per serving
Variations
- Spiced apple twist: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or allspice for deeper autumn flavor.
- Maple version: Replace granulated sugar with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup for a richer, more natural sweetness.
- Apple variety: Use a mix of apples (e.g., Honeycrisp and Granny Smith) for contrast in sweetness and texture.
- Bourbon glaze: Add a splash of bourbon (1–2 tablespoons) during cooking for a sophisticated depth of flavor.
- Nuts or raisins: Stir in chopped pecans or golden raisins during the last 30 minutes for added texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store cooled fried apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in airtight bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat until heated through. Add a splash of water if the mixture is too thick.
FAQs
Can I cook these on low instead of high?
Yes, you can cook on low for 3½ to 4 hours, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and tender.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for a softer texture, but you can leave the skin on for added fiber and a more rustic feel.
Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala apples also work well. Choose a firm apple that holds its shape during slow cooking.
How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
If needed, stir in an additional teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of water during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Can I make this recipe without cornstarch?
Cornstarch helps thicken the syrup. You can substitute with arrowroot powder or a small amount of flour if desired.
What is the best way to serve fried apples?
Serve them warm over oatmeal, pancakes, French toast, ice cream, or alongside pork chops for a savory-sweet pairing.
Are these fried apples the same as Cracker Barrel’s?
Yes, this is a slow cooker adaptation of the Cracker Barrel classic — with the same caramelized, cinnamon-rich flavor and a tender texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double all ingredients and cook for an additional 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Will the apples get mushy?
No, as long as you use firm apples and monitor the cook time, they will become tender without turning to mush.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes, fried apples reheat well and the flavor improves after sitting. Prepare them a day ahead and warm before serving.
Conclusion
These Slow Cooker Fried Apples are a deliciously simple way to enjoy the cozy flavors of fall. With their buttery texture, cinnamon sweetness, and caramelized edges, they’re versatile enough to serve as a side dish, topping, or dessert. Whether you’re hosting brunch or preparing a holiday meal, this recipe offers comfort and nostalgia with every bite — and your slow cooker does all the work.
PrintSlow Cooker Fried Apples
Tender, buttery apple slices slow cooked with cinnamon, vanilla, and a touch of lemon. These caramelized fried apples are perfect as a dessert, breakfast topping, or cozy fall side — just like Cracker Barrel, only better.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3 lbs Honeycrisp apples, peeled and sliced
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup melted unsalted butter
- 2 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Add the sliced apples to the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle cornstarch, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract over the apples.
- Pour in the melted butter and lemon juice.
- Toss everything together in the slow cooker to coat the apples evenly.
- Cover and cook on high for 2 hours, or until the apples are tender and caramelized.
- Serve warm on their own, or as a topping for oatmeal, pancakes, waffles, or vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- Use Honeycrisp or a mix of firm, sweet apples for best texture.
- Cooking time may vary slightly based on apple thickness and slow cooker model.
- For thicker syrup, let apples sit uncovered for 10 minutes after cooking.
- Refrigerate leftovers and reheat gently before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 319
- Sugar: 36g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg