Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
### Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
These Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are a warm, cozy treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings with minimal effort. The slow cooker method ensures tender, flavorful apples soaked in a cinnamon-spiced sauce. It’s a great dish for fall, holidays, or any time you want to indulge in comforting flavors.
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#### **Ingredients**
– **6 large apples** (such as Granny Smith or Golden Delicious): Peeled, cored, and sliced. These apple varieties hold up well in slow cooking.
– **½ cup packed brown sugar**: Adds rich sweetness and caramel undertones.
– **1 teaspoon ground cinnamon**: Provides warmth and spice.
– **¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg**: A hint of extra spice to complement the cinnamon.
– **¼ cup unsalted butter, melted**: For richness and depth in the sauce.
– **1 tablespoon cornstarch**: Helps thicken the sauce, making it silky and smooth.
– **1 tablespoon lemon juice**: Balances sweetness and enhances the apple flavor.
– **½ cup apple juice or apple cider**: Adds moisture and boosts the apple flavor.
– **Pinch of salt**: Enhances the overall flavor and balances sweetness.
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#### **Directions**
1. **Prepare Apples:**
– Peel, core, and slice the apples into evenly sized pieces. Place the sliced apples into the slow cooker.
2. **Make Spice Mix:**
– In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle this spiced sugar mixture evenly over the apples.
3. **Make Liquid Mixture:**
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, cornstarch, lemon juice, and apple juice (or cider) until smooth. Pour this mixture over the apples in the slow cooker, ensuring the apples are evenly coated.
4. **Cook the Apples:**
– Cover the slow cooker and cook on **low for 3-4 hours**. Stir occasionally if needed, but be gentle to prevent the apples from breaking apart. Cook until the apples are tender but still hold their shape.
5. **Serve:**
– Once the apples are done, give them a gentle stir to coat them fully in the sauce. Serve warm on their own, or pair with vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
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#### **Serving Suggestions**
– **Prep Time:** 10 minutes
– **Cook Time:** 3-4 hours
– **Total Time:** 3 hours 10 minutes
– **Servings:** 6
– **Calories:** Approximately 210 kcal per serving
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#### **Tips**
– **Apple Choice:** Firm apples like **Granny Smith** or **Golden Delicious** hold up well during cooking and won’t turn mushy.
– **Extra Flavor:** Add a dash of **vanilla extract** or a drizzle of **maple syrup** for additional richness.
– **Storage:** Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
These deliciously sweet and spiced fried apples are a fantastic side dish or dessert that captures the essence of fall and comfort. Enjoy them alongside your favorite holiday dishes, or savor as a standalone dessert!
