Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
I grew up eating fried apples and then as an adult I discovered Cracker Barrel and their fried apples. This recipe is from another site and is as close as I have seen to Cracker Barrel. The recipe says you can freeze the cooked apples. I have never done this as there is never any left.
I grew up eating fried apples and then as an adult I discovered Cracker Barrel and their fried apples. This recipe is from another site and is as close as I have seen to Cracker Barrel. The recipe says you can freeze the cooked apples. I have never done this as there is never any left.
- Carbohydrate 34.0329333341161 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.388066666667095 g
- Fiber 3.7926668110567 g
- Protein 0.495066666668897 g
- Saturated Fat 0.0645400000000772 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving(s) (260g)
- Sodium 2331.28000471811 mg
- Sugar 30.2402665230594 g
- Trans Fat 0.18998 g
- Calories 132 calories
Step-by-step
- In a medium skillet, combine the 2 cups apple juice and sliced apples.
- Simmer gently until apples are fork tender but not mushy, turning apples frequently.
- Remove apples from juice using a slotted spoon and place in an oven safe dish.
- In a blender, combine the remaining 1/2 cup apple juice, cornstarch, apple pie spice and sugar.
- Blend a few seconds until smooth.
- Whisk mixture into hot apple juice in skillet and cook, stirring constantly on medium high heat until it bubbles and becomes thickened and smooth.
- Pour thickened mixture over apples and serve.
My Secret to Perfectly Crispy Cracker Barrel-Style Fried Apples
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and comforting meals can be a challenge. But sometimes, a simple, nostalgic dish is exactly what I crave. That’s where these Cracker Barrel-style fried apples come in. They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and even less time, yet they deliver a burst of sweet, tart, and perfectly crispy flavor that's guaranteed to satisfy the entire family. I’ve tweaked a few recipes over the years, and this is the one that consistently hits the sweet spot – perfectly mimicking that Cracker Barrel taste I fell in love with years ago.
The key to these apples is the balance of sweetness, tartness, and that magical crispy texture. The golden delicious apples provide a wonderfully sweet and slightly tart base. The apple juice adds moisture and flavor, preventing the apples from becoming dry during cooking. And the cornstarch and sugar mixture creates a luscious, thick sauce that perfectly coats the apples, resulting in that delightful crispy exterior. The apple pie spice adds a warm, autumnal touch that perfectly complements the sweet and tart flavors of the apples. Honestly, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of these apples simmering on the stove; it instantly fills my kitchen with warmth and comfort.
Beyond the delicious taste, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less sugar. Feel free to experiment with different types of apples, too. While golden delicious apples are my personal favorite for their perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, other varieties such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp could work well depending on your preference. For an extra touch of flair, you could add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the spice blend. But even without any extra additions, these apples are remarkably delicious. They're a fantastic side dish for pancakes, waffles, French toast, or even just a scoop of vanilla ice cream. I often make a big batch and store them in the fridge to enjoy throughout the week – though, let’s be honest, there’s usually none left over!
These fried apples are more than just a recipe; they’re a little piece of comfort food. They transport me back to simpler times, reminding me of family breakfasts and cozy autumn evenings. They're a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. So, the next time you're looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious side dish, give this recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed. And who knows, you might even discover your own new favorite comfort food.
Ingredients you will need:
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 cup apple juice
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 2 cups apple juice plus
- 4 large golden delicious apples with peel, cut into 1/2 inch wedges
- 1 teaspoon apple pie spice
Tips and variations:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of apple juice and cider.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the spice blend for extra warmth.
- Serve warm over pancakes, waffles, French toast, or ice cream.
- These apples can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days.
Making these fried apples is a simple and enjoyable process that even beginner cooks can master. It's a recipe that’s both quick and rewarding, producing a taste that far surpasses its ease of preparation. They're a testament to the fact that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most satisfying.
