Cracker Barrel's fried apples are legendary. That sweet, cinnamon-spiced, perfectly caramelized taste is the stuff of Southern comfort food dreams. While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, we can recreate the magic at home with this delicious approximation. This recipe focuses on achieving that signature Cracker Barrel flavor profile, emphasizing the balance of sweetness, tartness, and spice.
What Makes Cracker Barrel Fried Apples So Special?
The key to nailing Cracker Barrel's fried apples lies in a few crucial elements:
- The Apple Variety: Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are essential for balancing the sweetness. Their acidity prevents the apples from becoming overly sugary.
- The Butter: Real butter, not margarine, is key to that rich, decadent flavor.
- The Cinnamon: A generous amount of ground cinnamon is crucial for that signature warm spice.
- The Caramelization: Low and slow cooking allows the apples to soften and caramelize beautifully, developing deep, complex flavors.
Cracker Barrel Fried Apples Recipe (Copycat)
This recipe aims to replicate the deliciousness of Cracker Barrel's fried apples. Feel free to adjust the sweetness and spice levels to your preference.
Yields: 6 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 25-30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 6 medium tart apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced about 1/4 inch thick
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup apple cider or apple juice (optional, for extra moisture)
Instructions:
- Melt the butter: In a large skillet (cast iron is ideal), melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the apples: Add the sliced apples to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the sugars and spices: Stir in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sugars are dissolved and the apples are coated evenly.
- Simmer and caramelize: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized. If the apples seem too dry, add the apple cider or juice during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Serve: Serve warm, ideally alongside pancakes, waffles, biscuits, or as a delicious side dish to pork chops or sausage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use different types of apples?
While tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work best for their acidity, you can experiment with other varieties. However, sweeter apples might require a slight reduction in the added sugar to prevent them from becoming overly sweet.
How do I store leftover fried apples?
Leftover fried apples can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the apples ahead of time, but it's best to cook them just before serving to ensure they remain tender and caramelized. The flavors will also deepen slightly upon reheating.
What other spices can I add?
Feel free to experiment with other spices to customize the flavor. A pinch of cloves or cardamom would complement the cinnamon beautifully.
Are these fried apples healthy?
While not a health food, this recipe uses real butter and minimal added sugar, offering a relatively healthier alternative compared to some other fried apple recipes. The use of whole apples provides fiber and vitamins.
This recipe provides a delicious and hopefully accurate interpretation of Cracker Barrel's famous fried apples. Enjoy the sweet and comforting taste of home!
