Authentic Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe: Your Southern Comfort Food Guide

There’s nothing quite like the warmth and nostalgia of a classic Southern dish, and Cracker Barrel’s Fried Apples stand out as a beloved icon. This copycat Cracker Barrel Fried Apples recipe brings that exact taste and comforting experience right into your home kitchen. Imagine deliciously soft, perfectly sweet apple slices, shimmering in a rich, spiced sauce, reminiscent of apple pie filling – but even simpler to prepare. You’ll feel like you’re sitting in your favorite Cracker Barrel, enjoying a homemade meal, without ever having to leave the comfort of your own dining room.

While apple recipes naturally gain immense popularity during the fall harvest season, and this copycat recipe is no exception – making it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving side dish spread – these fried apples are a year-round favorite in our household. Their sweet and savory versatility ensures they’re welcome at any meal, any day. This classic Southern side dish has graced the menu of Cracker Barrel restaurants for decades, captivating diners with its irresistible flavor and comforting texture. It’s often cited as a top menu pick, and once you taste these homemade fried apples, you’ll understand exactly why.

This recipe isn’t just about replicating a dish; it’s about capturing a feeling. The delightful aroma of cinnamon and cooked apples will fill your home, inviting everyone to gather around for a taste of pure Southern hospitality. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Cracker Barrel’s version or new to the magic of fried apples, prepare to be amazed by how easy it is to create such a delectable treat from scratch.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Fried Apples Recipe

These delicious fried apples offer incredible versatility and a host of reasons to become a staple in your recipe collection:

• Unmatched Versatility: Unlike many dishes, fried apples can seamlessly transition between sweet and savory roles. Serve them as a comforting sweet side dish alongside a hearty main course like juicy pork chops, roast chicken, or a holiday ham. For a delightful dessert, simply add a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They even make a fantastic addition to breakfast, spooned over pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal.
• Effortlessly Easy: Forget complicated culinary techniques. This recipe requires very few ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. You can achieve restaurant-quality flavor with minimal fuss and in less than 20 minutes from start to finish!
• Universal Appeal: Who doesn’t love fried apples? This dish is the epitome of comfort food, bringing smiles and warmth to everyone who tries it. It’s a fantastic crowd-pleaser for family dinners, potlucks, and holiday gatherings.
• Just Like Apple Pie Filling: The flavor profile of these fried apples is remarkably similar to a homemade apple pie filling. This means you can easily make a larger batch and use it for more than just a side dish – think apple pie, apple crisp, or even apple turnovers. It’s a convenient way to get multiple delicious uses out of one simple preparation.
• Slow Cooker Option: For an even more hands-off approach, these fried apples can be adapted for your slow cooker. This is a fantastic option for busy days or when you want to keep your stovetop free for other dishes, especially during holiday cooking.
• The Ultimate Thanksgiving Side: As a sweet and spiced complement, fried apples pair perfectly with traditional Thanksgiving fare. Imagine them alongside your Thanksgiving turkey, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole – a truly harmonious blend of flavors.
• Homemade Goodness: There’s immense satisfaction in recreating a beloved restaurant dish from scratch. You control the quality of ingredients and can customize the sweetness and spice to your exact preferences, ensuring a fresh and flavorful result every time.

Essential Ingredients for Southern Fried Apples

Crafting perfect fried apples starts with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to achieve that signature Cracker Barrel taste:

• Apples: The star of the show! For this recipe, I highly recommend using firm, tart apple varieties such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Their natural tartness provides a wonderful balance to the sweetness of the dish, and more importantly, they hold their shape beautifully during cooking, preventing them from turning into mush. While other apples can be used, tart and firm varieties yield the best texture.
• White Granulated Sugar: This provides a clean, bright sweetness that complements the tartness of the apples and helps create the glossy sauce.
• Light Brown Sugar: Adding brown sugar introduces a deeper, more complex sweetness with subtle caramel notes thanks to its molasses content. It also contributes to the rich, appealing color and slightly thicker texture of the sauce.
• Unsalted Butter: Butter is crucial for frying the apples, lending a rich, luscious flavor and helping to create that signature golden-brown exterior. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
• Apple Juice: This liquid component forms the base of your sweet, spiced sauce. It also infuses additional apple flavor throughout the dish, making every bite burst with fruity goodness. Ensure you use 100% apple juice for the best results.
• Apple Pie Spice: To simplify the seasoning process, a pre-mixed apple pie spice blend is a fantastic shortcut. It typically contains a harmonious mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and sometimes allspice or ginger, providing that quintessential “fall spice” flavor. If you don’t have a blend, you can create your own with individual spices (see variations section).
• Cornstarch: This is our secret weapon for achieving the perfect sauce consistency. Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent, ensuring your fried apples are coated in a beautiful, glossy, and slightly thickened sauce rather than a watery syrup. It’s essential for that restaurant-quality finish.

For precise quantities, please refer to the detailed recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Step-by-Step Guide to Frying Apples the Cracker Barrel Way

Creating these delightful fried apples is a straightforward process. Follow these easy steps to achieve perfect results every time. This is an overview of the recipe steps; for more detailed instructions, including exact measurements and additional tips, please visit the comprehensive recipe card below.

1. Prepare Your Skillet: Begin by placing a large, sturdy skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add the unsalted butter to the skillet and allow it to melt completely, coating the bottom evenly. You want the butter to be shimmering but not browned.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large, resealable plastic bag, combine the granulated white sugar, light brown sugar, apple pie spice, and cornstarch. Seal the bag securely and shake it vigorously for about 30 seconds to ensure all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed and evenly distributed. This creates a flavorful coating for your apples.
3. Prepare the Apples: Wash, peel, and core your chosen apples. Slice them into consistent ¼-inch thick pieces. Uniform slices ensure even cooking. Add the peeled and sliced apples directly into the resealable bag with the spice mixture.
4. Coat the Apples Evenly: Seal the bag once more and gently shake and toss the apple slices. Move the apple pieces around within the bag until each slice is thoroughly and evenly coated with the sugar and spice mixture. This coating is key to the delicious flavor and perfect sauce.
5. Begin Frying: Carefully add the coated apple mixture to the hot skillet with the melted butter. Pour in the apple juice. Use a spatula or spoon to gently spread the apples into a single layer across the bottom of the skillet, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
6. Simmer to Perfection: Reduce the heat to low-medium. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid (or aluminum foil if you don’t have a lid). Allow the apples to cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The apples will release their juices and combine with the apple juice and spice mixture to form a rich, thick sauce.
7. Serve Immediately: The fried apples are ready when they are nicely softened but still hold a slight bite – you don’t want them mushy! The sauce should be thickened and glossy. Remove from heat and serve immediately while warm for the best experience.

Looking for another cute fall-inspired recipe? You should definitely check out my Thanksgiving Cake Pop Recipe – these little turkeys are absolutely adorable and a huge hit!

Pro Tip: If your skillet doesn’t have a matching lid, a piece of aluminum foil crimped tightly around the edges will work perfectly to create a seal, allowing the apples to steam and soften properly.

Recipe Variations and Creative Substitute Ideas

While the classic Cracker Barrel Fried Apples recipe is perfect as is, you can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fantastic variations and substitute ideas:

• Apple Choices: While tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal for their firm texture, you can experiment with other varieties. For a sweeter profile, try Golden Delicious or Fuji apples. Pink Lady and Gala apples also work well, offering a balance of sweetness and tartness. If using softer apples, reduce cooking time slightly to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
• Enhanced Tartness: For an extra layer of complexity and a touch of tang that brightens the overall flavor, try adding a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar along with the apple juice. This subtle acidity can elevate the dish beautifully.
• Savory Twist with Bacon Drippings: For a true Southern country flavor, melt a few tablespoons of bacon drippings in the skillet instead of butter. The smoky, salty notes of the bacon fat will add an incredible depth to the fried apples, making them an even more robust side dish for savory meals.
• Boosted Apple Flavor with Apple Cider: Instead of apple juice, use apple cider for an even more intense and robust apple flavor. Hard cider could also be used for an adult twist, with its alcohol cooking off during the process.
• Spice It Up: Don’t limit yourself to just apple pie spice. Enhance the warm flavors by adding an extra pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, a dash of cloves, or even a tiny amount of cardamom. A very small amount of fresh grated ginger can also add a delightful zing.
• Alternative Sweeteners: If you’re looking to reduce refined sugar or explore different flavor profiles, consider substituting some or all of the sugar with maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar. Adjust quantities to taste, as these have different sweetness levels.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of good quality vanilla extract (about ½ teaspoon) added at the very end of cooking can significantly boost the dessert-like qualities of the apples.
• Nutty Crunch: For added texture, stir in about ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts during the last few minutes of cooking, or sprinkle them on top just before serving. Toasting the nuts beforehand will enhance their flavor.
• Alcoholic Kick: For an adult-friendly version, replace a portion of the apple juice with a splash of bourbon, brandy, or dark rum. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind a rich, warm flavor.
• Healthier Options: To lighten the recipe, you can reduce the amount of butter or use a healthier cooking oil like coconut oil. You can also slightly reduce the sugar content, especially if using naturally sweet apples.

Connect With Us! Join Our Community!

We love sharing delicious recipes and connecting with our amazing readers. Follow us on social media for more cooking inspiration, tips, and behind-the-scenes content!

Like Our Facebook Page for Daily Updates!

Essential Kitchen Equipment for Fried Apples

The following may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we trust and use ourselves.

Making Cracker Barrel Fried Apples doesn’t require a lot of specialized tools, but having the right equipment can make the process smoother and yield better results. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large 12″ Skillet: A spacious skillet is essential to allow the apples to cook evenly without overcrowding. A 12-inch skillet is ideal for this recipe.
• Cast-Iron Skillet (Highly Recommended): For superior heat distribution and retention, a cast-iron skillet is my top recommendation. It helps achieve a beautiful, even caramelization on the apples and contributes to that rustic, homemade flavor. If you don’t have one, any large, heavy-bottomed skillet will work.
• Vegetable Peeler: For quickly and efficiently peeling your apples.
• Apple Corer: While not strictly necessary (you can core with a knife), an apple corer makes the process much faster and easier.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For safely and uniformly slicing your apples.
• Large Resealable Bag or Mixing Bowl: To coat the apples evenly with the sugar and spice mixture. A resealable bag offers a convenient, mess-free way to ensure every apple slice is perfectly seasoned.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring the apples occasionally during cooking and serving. A silicone spatula is great for gently turning the apples without breaking them.
• Lid for Skillet (or Aluminum Foil): Crucial for covering the apples during simmering, allowing them to soften through steaming and creating that luscious sauce.

All the specific equipment I used for this recipe is detailed in the recipe card at the bottom of this post, along with direct links for your convenience.

More Southern Comfort Food Recipes You’ll Crave

If you love the comforting flavors of Cracker Barrel and classic Southern cuisine, you’ll definitely want to explore these other fantastic recipes from our collection:

And for more ideas for your holiday table, be sure to check out this amazing list of 25 Famous Cajun Thanksgiving Side Dishes.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Fried Apples

If you happen to have any leftover Cracker Barrel Fried Apples (which is a rare occurrence!), proper storage ensures they remain delicious for future enjoyment.

Refrigeration:

Once your fried apples have cooled completely to room temperature, transfer them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This allows the flavors to meld even further, sometimes tasting even better the next day!

Freezing for Longer Storage:

Yes, you can freeze fried apples! This is great if you’ve made a large batch or want to prepare them ahead of time for a future meal or dessert. Let the apples cool completely. Transfer them to freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips:

• From the Refrigerator: Reheat refrigerated fried apples gently in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring occasionally. If the sauce seems a bit thick, add a tiny splash of apple juice or water while reheating.
• From the Freezer: Thaw frozen fried apples overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Once thawed, follow the instructions for reheating from the refrigerator.

Leftover fried apples are fantastic repurposed! Try them as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal, mixed into a smoothie, or even quickly baked into small hand pies for a delightful breakfast or snack.

Frequently Asked Questions: FAQs About Fried Apples

We truly hope you enjoy making and savoring this delightful Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe. If you’ve tried this, or any other great recipe on our site, we’d absolutely love to hear from you!

Please share your experience in the comment section below and let us know how it turned out – your feedback brightens our day and helps other readers!

If you loved this recipe and found it helpful, please consider giving it 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Your ratings make a huge difference!

You can also follow us on PINTEREST, FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM to discover even more amazing recipes and stay updated with our latest culinary adventures!