Introduction:
Indulge in the nostalgia of Cracker Barrel’s classic fried apples without leaving the comfort of your home. Our Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples recipe brings the beloved taste of this iconic dish to your kitchen, allowing you to savor the warm, cinnamon-spiced goodness at any time. Whether served as a comforting side dish or a delightful dessert, these slow-cooked apples are sure to evoke feelings of warmth and contentment. Join us as we share the secrets to recreating the familiar flavors of Cracker Barrel’s renowned fried apples using your trusty slow cooker.
Ingredients:
For the brownie base:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the cheesecake:
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
For the caramel topping:
- 1 cup sugar
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
Directions:
Prepare the brownie base:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, melt the butter and combine it with sugar until well mixed. Add eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.
- Stir in cocoa powder, flour, and salt until just combined.
- Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes until set.
Prepare the cheesecake mixture:
- In another mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the baked brownie base and return it to the oven.
- Bake for an additional 45 minutes or until the cheesecake is set.
- Prepare the caramel sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, heat sugar, stirring constantly until melted and amber in color.
- Carefully stir in butter until fully incorporated, then slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously.
- Add a pinch of salt and let the caramel sauce cool slightly.
Final assembly:
- Once the cheesecake has cooled, pour the prepared caramel sauce over the top.
- Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for a few hours or until completely set.
Serving Tips:
- Serve Warm: Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are best served warm, straight from the slow cooker. The comforting aroma and cozy flavors are most pronounced when enjoyed freshly cooked.
- Pair with Favorite Dishes: These fried apples make a delightful accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside breakfast favorites such as pancakes, waffles, or French toast. They also complement savory dishes like roasted pork, grilled chicken, or baked ham.
- Top with Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, serve the fried apples with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy addition enhances the sweetness and adds a delightful contrast in texture.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs or Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts over the fried apples for added crunch and flavor. Alternatively, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like mint or cinnamon for a pop of color and freshness.
- Use as Topping: These slow-cooked apples can also be used as a delicious topping for oatmeal, yogurt, or ice cream. Drizzle with caramel sauce or honey for an extra decadent treat.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store the fried apples in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat Gently: When reheating leftovers, gently warm them in a saucepan on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
- Freeze for Longer Storage: Fried apples can be frozen for longer-term storage. Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- Thaw and Reheat: When ready to enjoy frozen fried apples, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, adding extra liquid if needed to prevent dryness.
- Enjoy Within a Reasonable Time: While fried apples can be stored for a few days in the refrigerator or frozen for longer-term storage, they are best enjoyed fresh. Try to consume them within a reasonable time frame for optimal flavor and texture.
FAQs:
- Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use your favorite variety of apple for Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples. Popular choices include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples, but feel free to use any variety you prefer.
- Can I adjust the sweetness of the fried apples?
- Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter dish, you can increase the amount of sugar in the recipe. Conversely, if you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar substitute according to your taste preferences.
- Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can make Cracker Barrel Fried Apples on the stovetop by cooking them in a skillet over low to medium heat. Simply follow the same instructions, but adjust the cooking time accordingly until the apples are tender and caramelized.
- Are these fried apples suitable for a gluten-free diet?
- Yes, this recipe for Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples is naturally gluten-free. However, always double-check the labels of your ingredients, especially the vanilla extract and any packaged products, to ensure they are certified gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.
- Can I make a larger batch of fried apples for a crowd?
- Certainly! You can easily double or triple the recipe to make a larger batch of fried apples to serve at gatherings or special occasions. Simply adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly and use a larger slow cooker or cook them in batches if needed.
Conclusion:
With our Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples recipe, you can bring the comforting flavors of this beloved restaurant dish into your home kitchen. Whether enjoyed as a side dish alongside your favorite comfort food meal or served as a sweet treat after dinner, these slow-cooked apples are sure to become a family favorite. Embrace the simplicity and warmth of homemade comfort food with this easy-to-make recipe that captures the essence of Cracker Barrel’s famous fried apples. Gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and get ready to savor the delicious taste of home-cooked goodness.