Copycat Cracker Barrel Fried Apples (Easy Side Dish)

Cracker Barrel’s fried apples are pure comfort – tender, cinnamon-spiced apples in a buttery brown sugar glaze that works as a side dish or a dessert. This copycat recipe nails that cozy flavor in just 30 minutes with a handful of pantry ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 30 minutes in one skillet
• Tastes just like the Cracker Barrel side
• Works as a side dish or a dessert topping
• Naturally simple, comforting ingredients

Copycat Cracker Barrel Fried Apples

Cracker Barrel's beloved fried apples made at home - tender apple slices simmered in butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until glossy and rich.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 190

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 Golden Delicious apples cored and sliced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup apple cider or water

Equipment

• Skillet
• wooden spoon

Method

 

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the apple slices and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cover and cook 8-10 minutes until the apples are tender.
4. Whisk the cornstarch into the apple cider, then stir it into the skillet. Cook 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and turns glossy.
5. Serve warm as a side dish or spooned over pancakes, ice cream, or pork.

Notes

Firm apples like Golden Delicious or Honeycrisp hold their shape best. A cornstarch slurry thickens the sauce into that signature glaze.

Tips for the Best Cracker Barrel Fried Apples

• Use firm apples like Golden Delicious or Honeycrisp so they hold their shape
• Slice the apples evenly so they cook at the same rate
• The cornstarch slurry creates that signature glossy glaze
• Do not overcook – you want tender, not mushy, apples

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.

Variations to Try

• Add a splash of vanilla at the end for extra warmth
• Spoon over vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert
• Stir in a handful of raisins or chopped pecans

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of apples are best for fried apples?

Firm, sweet-tart apples like Golden Delicious, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith hold their shape and balance the sweet sauce.

Do you peel the apples for Cracker Barrel fried apples?

The restaurant leaves the peels on. You can peel them for a softer texture if you prefer.

Can I serve fried apples as dessert?

Absolutely. They are wonderful warm over ice cream, pancakes, waffles, or pound cake.

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