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Cracker-Barrel Fried Apples

Cracker-Barrel Fried Apples

Cracker-Barrel Fried Apples are a classic Southern comfort food featuring tender apple slices sautéed in butter, sweetened with brown sugar, and flavored with cinnamon. They offer a warm, sweet, and nostalgic side dish or dessert that is quick and easy to prepare, bringing a cozy, homemade touch to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 medium firm apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into even, thin pieces to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the flavors perfectly.
  2. Melt Butter and Add Apples: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly but not browned. Add the apple slices and gently stir to coat them in the melted butter.
  3. Sprinkle Sugar and Spices: Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt over the apples. Stir occasionally to let the sugar dissolve and caramelize, forming a sticky, delicious glaze.
  4. Cook Until Tender: Continue cooking the apples for about 10 minutes, stirring now and then, until they are soft but not mushy, and the sugar is nicely caramelized.
  5. Finish with Optional Touches: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in vanilla extract and lemon juice if using, to brighten the flavor and keep the apples vibrant.

Notes

  • Use firm apples to ensure slices hold their shape during cooking.
  • Let the brown sugar caramelize slowly for the best glaze texture.
  • Adjust sweetness gradually to avoid overly sweet apples.
  • Use a non-stick pan to prevent apples from sticking and breaking.
  • Cook on medium heat to avoid burning butter or sugar.

Nutrition

Keywords: fried apples, cracker barrel, southern comfort food, sautéed apples, cinnamon apples, apple side dish, quick dessert