Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel-Style Fried Apples: Sweet, Spiced, and Perfectly Soft

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Apples
   Peel, core, and slice the apples into roughly 1/2-inch thick slices. Uniform slices ensure even cooking.

2. Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
   Place the sliced apples in the slow cooker. Sprinkle with brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Dot the butter cubes evenly over the top. Pour in the water or apple cider.

3. Cook on Low
   Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours, stirring occasionally if possible. The apples should be tender but not falling apart, and the sugar will have created a rich, syrupy sauce.

4. Add Vanilla and Finish
   Stir in the vanilla extract just before serving to preserve its aroma and flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding a pinch more cinnamon or sugar for extra sweetness.

5. Serve Warm
   Serve your slow cooker fried apples as a side dish with pork chops, roast chicken, or biscuits. They also make a delicious topping for pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, or vanilla ice cream.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Fried Apples

• Apple selection matters: Tart apples like Granny Smith balance the sweetness, while sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp create a more dessert-like flavor.

• Don’t skip the butter: It enriches the syrup and adds a subtle creaminess.

• Optional extras: A splash of bourbon or a handful of chopped pecans adds extra depth and texture