Cracker Barrel Fried Apples

Cracker Barrel Fried Apples — sweet, cinnamony, and syrupy just like the restaurant favorite. These apples are perfect as a side dish, dessert, or even a pancake topping.

🍎 Cracker Barrel Fried Apples (Copycat Recipe)

Ingredients:

• 4 large tart apples (Granny Smith or Golden Delicious work best)

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)

• 1/4 cup white sugar

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1/2 cup apple juice (or water)

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, to brighten flavor)

Instructions:

1. Prepare apples:

   • Wash, core, and slice apples into 1/2-inch wedges (leave the skin on for authentic texture).

   • Toss apple slices with lemon juice if using (helps preserve color and add brightness).

2. Cook apples:

   • In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.

   • Add apple slices and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring gently, until just tender but not mushy.

3. Make the sauce:

   • In a bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch.

   • Stir the mixture into the apples.

   • Pour in apple juice and stir to combine.

4. Simmer:

   • Reduce heat to low and cook for another 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and apples are soft but not falling apart.

5. Serve warm:

   • Great with pork chops, pancakes, biscuits, or vanilla ice cream.

📝 Tips:

• Thicker sauce? Add a bit more cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + cold water).

• Less sweet version? Reduce sugar slightly or use unsweetened apple juice