Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are a comforting and delicious dish that brings a taste of the beloved restaurant right to your home. This recipe features tart apples, cooked to tender perfection in a buttery brown sugar and cinnamon sauce. The caramelization of the sugar adds a delightful sweetness, while the cinnamon provides a warm, cozy flavor. These fried apples are incredibly versatile; they can be served as a sweet side dish with breakfast, a topping for pancakes or waffles, or even as a dessert paired with ice cream or whipped cream. Easy to make and full of comforting flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are a beloved classic, offering a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors. This warm, comforting dish is easy to make and can be enjoyed as a side or dessert. Let's dive into the ingredients that bring this delicious recipe to life.
INGREDIENTS
- Butter: 4 tablespoons. It adds a rich flavor and helps in caramelizing the apples.
- Tart Apples: 5–6 apples (about 2 lb), peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2-inch wedges. Choose varieties like Granny Smith for the best results.
- Brown Sugar: ¼ cup, packed. It provides sweetness and deepens the caramelization.
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon. A warm spice that enhances the flavor of the apples.
- Salt: A pinch, to balance the sweetness.
- Lemon Juice: Juice of 1 lemon or bottled lemon juice. It prevents the apples from browning and adds a slight tanginess.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into 1/2-inch wedges. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the apple slices and toss to coat them evenly. This step helps prevent the apples from browning and adds a subtle tang.
- Step 2:
- In a large cast-iron skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it becomes bubbly. The butter should be fully melted and slightly foamy before adding the apples.
- Step 3:
- Add the prepared apple slices to the skillet. Sprinkle them with brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. The sugar will caramelize, creating a sweet and slightly sticky coating on the apples.
- Step 4:
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let the apples cook over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and don't stick to the bottom. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the apples are tender and caramelized.
- Step 5:
- Once the apples have reached your desired level of tenderness and the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the fried apples warm, either as a comforting side dish or a delectable dessert.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve Cracker Barrel Fried Apples warm, fresh out of the skillet, to enjoy the full flavor and texture.
- Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert.
- They also make a great side dish for breakfast, especially when served with pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Helpful Notes
- For a richer flavor, use a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Fuji.
- If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the amount of brown sugar to 1/3 cup.
- To add a touch of warmth, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves along with the cinnamon.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Martha Stewart suggests using a splash of apple cider for added depth of flavor.
- Chef Julia Child recommended cooking the apples in butter for a richer taste and texture.
- Chef Jamie Oliver advises using freshly grated cinnamon sticks for a more vibrant spice flavor.