Fried Apples – Easy Cracker Barrel Copycat

This Cracker Barrel Fried Apples recipe is a quick stovetop dish that’s sweet, warm, and easy enough for tired nights. Golden Delicious apples get gently simmered in brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter — no oven, no fuss. Great with pork chops, pancakes, or just a spoon.

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Quick Summary

• Prep time: 5 mins
• Cook time: 15 mins
• Flavor: Sweet, buttery, warm spice
• Great for: Cozy sides, ice cream toppers, or “this counts as dinner” nights

Why I Like This Recipe

Some nights I just want something warm and sweet that doesn’t need measuring cups or mental energy. These apples? They get it. Easy to throw together. Smell amazing. Taste like fall — even if it’s June.

Ingredients

• 4 tbsp salted butter
• 4 golden delicious apples, peeled + sliced
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ⅛ tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of nutmeg

How To Make Fried Apples

1. Melt the butter: Get a skillet warm over medium heat. Drop in the butter and let it melt all the way.
2. Add the apples + lemon juice: Toss in the apple slices. Drizzle with lemon juice. Stir a bit to coat everything.
3. Sweeten things up: Sprinkle in the brown sugar and salt. Stir again so everything’s glossy.
4. Cover + simmer: Turn the heat low, cover the pan, and let it cook for 15 minutes. Stir now and then. Apples should be tender, not mushy.
5. Add the spices: Take the lid off. Add cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir gently. Done.
6. Serve warm: On their own, over waffles, next to pork — whatever feels right.

Tips for Success

• Use Golden Delicious — they hold up without turning to mush
• Keep slices the same size for even cooking
• Don’t rush it — low heat = soft and silky
• Add spices last to keep flavor bold
• A splash of vanilla at the end = bakery vibes

Storage and Reheating

• Fridge: Cool first, then store in a sealed container. Good for 4 days.
• Freezer: Yes. Let cool completely. Freeze flat in a bag or container — up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Best in a skillet on low with a splash of water or butter. Microwave also works, 30–60 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use a different apple?
  Sure. Fuji or Honeycrisp also work. Just avoid anything too soft — like Red Delicious.
• Do I have to peel them?
  Peeling gives that classic soft texture, but leave them on if you like the extra bite.
• Can I double this?
  Totally. Just use a bigger skillet and stir often so they cook evenly.
• What’s this good with?
  Honestly? Biscuits, pancakes, pork chops, roast chicken… or just a spoon.
• Can I make it ahead of time?
  Yep! Reheat gently before serving and they’ll taste just as good.

Common Mistakes and How to Dodge Them

• Using apples that break down too fast: Some apples just fall apart — Golden Delicious hold their shape but still get soft.
• Slicing too thick or too thin: Uneven slices = uneven texture. Aim for ¼-inch.
• Too much heat: High heat cooks the outsides fast but leaves the center firm. Go low and slow.
• Forgetting to cover the pan: Steam helps soften the apples without drying them out.
• Skipping the lemon juice: Adds brightness and keeps them from going too sweet or flat.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Potassium: 270mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 50g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 35g
• Protein: 1g

You Might Also Like:

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• Skillet Hash with Sausage and Apples – Easy Cracker Barrel Copycat
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• Buttermilk Pancakes  – Easy Cracker Barrel Copycat