Warm cinnamon apples remind us of cozy Southern kitchens, slow weekend breakfasts, and comforting family meals. Few dishes capture that old-fashioned charm better than Cracker Barrel fried apples. If you’ve ever eaten at the restaurant, you probably know how memorable this side dish is. The apples are soft but not mushy. They are perfectly spiced, buttery, and slightly sweet, with a smooth texture and a deep flavor that tastes like something your grandmother might have made.
It is not just a side dish. It’s a reminder of simpler times. Something about those apples makes you want to slow down and enjoy the moment. The good news is you do not need a reservation or a road trip to Cracker Barrel to enjoy this treat. With a few simple ingredients and a little time on the stove, you can recreate that same comforting flavor at home. This guide walks you through each step of the process so that your apples come out tasting just right.
Whether you’re serving them with pork chops, using them as a breakfast topping, or enjoying them on their own, Cracker Barrel fried apples bring a bit of Southern comfort to your table.
Let’s get started.
Ingredients Needed
You do not need anything fancy to make this dish. Everything is easy to find, and you probably have most of it in your kitchen already. The key is to use the right kind of apple. Golden Delicious or Fuji work best because they hold their shape while still becoming tender.
Here’s a full list of what you will need.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Apples (Golden Delicious or Fuji) | 4 large | 320 |
| Unsalted Butter | 3 tablespoons | 300 |
| Brown Sugar | 1/3 cup | 275 |
| White Sugar | 2 tablespoons | 90 |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | 6 |
| Nutmeg (optional) | 1/8 teaspoon | 3 |
| Apple Juice | 1/2 cup | 60 |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon | 30 |
| Lemon Juice | 1 teaspoon | 1 |
This makes enough for four generous servings. The total calorie count for the whole recipe is around 1085, which comes out to about 270 calories per serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Cooking fried apples is not difficult. The secret is to take your time. Let the apples soften slowly so they absorb all the flavor from the butter and spices.
Start by peeling the apples. Slice them into wedges that are about half an inch thick. You want them thick enough to hold up during cooking but not so thick that they stay hard in the middle.
Place a large skillet on the stove over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt. You do not want it to brown. Just let it gently bubble and coat the bottom of the pan. Once the butter is ready, add the apple slices and stir to coat them well.
Cook the apples for about five to six minutes, stirring gently every so often. They will start to soften and take on a slight golden color. That’s when it is time to add the sugars, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle them evenly across the apples and stir again. The sugar will start to melt and blend into the butter, making a sweet glaze.
Next, pour in the apple juice. Let everything simmer gently for about ten to twelve minutes. Stir every couple of minutes so the apples cook evenly and nothing sticks. By the end, they should be fork-tender and surrounded by a rich, golden sauce.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water. This keeps it from clumping. Slowly pour it into the pan while stirring. This will thicken the sauce and give it that familiar Cracker Barrel texture. Cook for another two or three minutes until the sauce becomes silky and smooth.
At the very end, add the lemon juice. This brightens the flavor and balances the sweetness. Stir one final time and take the skillet off the heat.
Your apples are now ready to serve.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Everyone has their own idea of the perfect fried apple. This recipe is a great starting point, but you can make a few simple changes to suit your taste.
If you like your apples more tart, use Granny Smith instead of Golden Delicious. They hold their shape well and add a bit of sharpness to each bite. For a firmer texture, try Honeycrisp.
You can also play around with the spices. Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for a deeper flavor. Stir in a half teaspoon of vanilla extract for an extra layer of warmth.
If you need a dairy-free version, use a plant-based butter or coconut oil. The flavor will change slightly, but the apples will still be delicious.
Want a dessert version? Top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Or serve them over pancakes, waffles, or even pound cake for a sweet treat.
You can also double the recipe and store leftovers in the fridge. They reheat well in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of juice.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
This is a sweet side, but it is lighter than many desserts. Here’s what you’re looking at per serving:
- Calories: 270
- Total Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugars: 37g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: Less than 1g
- Sodium: 5mg
Keep in mind that adding ice cream or serving it with other foods will increase the calorie count. But as it stands, this recipe offers a balanced way to enjoy something sweet without going overboard.
Serving Suggestions
There are so many ways to enjoy these fried apples. They go beautifully with pork chops, ham, or roasted chicken. The sweetness balances savory meat dishes, making them a great side for dinner.
For breakfast, try serving them over pancakes or waffles. You can even add them to oatmeal or Greek yogurt for a sweet, spiced topping.
If you want to turn this into dessert, spoon the apples over vanilla ice cream or serve them warm with a dollop of whipped cream. You can also use them as a filling for hand pies or turnovers.
Another great idea is to serve them as part of a brunch spread. They pair well with biscuits, eggs, and sausage, adding a touch of sweetness to the plate.
Conclusion
Cracker Barrel fried apples are one of those recipes that make people feel at home. Whether you grew up eating them or just discovered them recently, they are always a welcome addition to the table.
With a little butter, sugar, and the right apples, you can make a batch that tastes just as good as the restaurant version. Maybe even better. You control the ingredients, the sweetness, and the spices.
The best part is how simple it is. In under 30 minutes, you can serve a warm, comforting side that brings smiles every time. Whether you enjoy them with dinner, breakfast, or dessert, these apples are a Southern classic you’ll want to make again and again.
So grab a skillet and some apples. Let your kitchen smell like cinnamon and butter. You’re going to love what comes out of it.