Easy Cracker Barrel Baked Apples Recipe – Warm & Comforting!

Cracker Barrel has been a cherished dining destination for many, known for its home-style comfort food that brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth to every meal.

Among their many beloved dishes, Cracker Barrel’s Baked Apples stand out as a timeless dessert that captures the essence of classic Southern comfort.

This recipe, with its tender, cinnamon-scented apples baked to perfection, provides a sweet, warm treat that pairs perfectly with any meal or stands alone as a cozy dessert.

Whether you’re a fan of the restaurant or simply looking for a dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl, these Baked Apples bring a delightful combination of natural fruit sweetness, warm spices, and a rich buttery finish.

It’s a dish that fills the home with irresistible aromas and offers a comforting sense of indulgence—perfect for family gatherings, a cozy night in, or any occasion that calls for something sweet and simple.

In this recipe, you’ll learn how to recreate the famous Cracker Barrel Baked Apples right in your kitchen.

It’s an easy-to-follow recipe that brings the heartwarming flavors of this classic dish to your own table.

What Makes Cracker Barrel Baked Apples So Special?

The secret behind Cracker Barrel’s Baked Apples lies in their perfect balance of flavors and textures.

These apples are baked to a tender, melt-in-your-mouth consistency while maintaining just enough structure to hold their shape.

The magic happens when the apples are combined with cinnamon, brown sugar, and butter, creating a syrupy glaze that infuses every bite with sweetness and warmth.

What makes this dish especially delightful is the blend of spices—cinnamon and nutmeg—along with the richness of butter, which enhances the natural sweetness of the apples.

Each apple is carefully cored, filled with a delicious spiced mixture, and then baked until golden.

The raisins, if added, plump up in the heat, adding a lovely chewiness and a burst of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the tender fruit.

Pecans or walnuts can add a satisfying crunch, giving the dish an extra layer of texture.

Another aspect that makes these Baked Apples so special is their versatility.

While they shine as a dessert on their own, they can also be served as a side dish to complement savory meals like roasted meats or fried chicken.

They bring a comforting touch to any meal, making them an ideal choice for holiday feasts, family dinners, or a simple weeknight treat.

In essence, the Cracker Barrel Baked Apples recipe is a celebration of home-cooked goodness and timeless flavors.

It’s a dish that combines simplicity and elegance, making it easy for anyone to recreate the warmth and hospitality that Cracker Barrel is known for.

With just a few ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll have a dessert that’s just as comforting as the original, ready to enjoy with friends and family.

Health Benefits

• Rich in Dietary Fiber: The apples used in this recipe are a good source of dietary fiber, which can help promote healthy digestion, regulate blood sugar levels, and support heart health.
  
  Fiber is also known to aid in weight management by promoting satiety.
  
• Loaded with Antioxidants: Apples contain antioxidants such as flavonoids, which help protect the body from oxidative stress.
  
  Antioxidants can reduce inflammation and may lower the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease.
  
• Vitamin C Boost: Apples contain vitamin C, an essential nutrient that supports the immune system and helps with wound healing and tissue repair.
  
  This recipe can provide a healthy dose of vitamin C to support overall wellness.
  
• Low in Calories: With around 210 calories per serving, this dessert can fit into a balanced diet without contributing excessive calories.
  
  It’s a great way to enjoy a comforting, sweet treat without overindulging.
  
• Supports Bone Health: The small amount of calcium found in the recipe, combined with the vitamin C from the apples, can contribute to stronger bones and support overall skeletal health.
  
• Heart-Healthy: The use of cinnamon in this recipe has been linked to improved heart health.
  
  Cinnamon has properties that may help lower blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Baked Apples Recipe

To recreate Cracker Barrel’s famous Baked Apples at home, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a truly comforting dessert.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala work best for baking)
• 1/2 cup of brown sugar (packed)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional for extra spice)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional, for added sweetness and texture)
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (helps balance sweetness and keeps the apples from browning)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (to enhance flavor)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for an added depth of flavor)

These ingredients come together to create a sweet, cinnamon-spiced filling for the apples, with a rich buttery glaze that coats the fruit as it bakes to perfection.

You can also customize the recipe by adding nuts or raisins for extra flavor and texture, or choose to leave them out for a more traditional version.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cracker Barrel Baked Apples

Making Cracker Barrel Baked Apples at home is easy and straightforward, with just a few steps that yield a warm, comforting dessert.

Follow these simple instructions to bring the taste of Cracker Barrel into your kitchen:

Step 1: Prepping the Apples

Start by washing the apples thoroughly and drying them.

Then, carefully core the apples, making sure to leave the bottom intact so the filling doesn’t spill out during baking.

You can use an apple corer for this, but if you don’t have one, a small paring knife works just fine.

Once the apples are cored, lightly score the skin around the top of the apple with a knife, about 1/4-inch deep.

This will help the apples cook evenly and prevent the skin from bursting.

If you prefer, you can peel the apples, but keeping the skin on adds texture and helps the apples hold their shape during baking.

If you plan to stuff the apples with a filling, you might find leaving the skin on enhances the flavor.

Step 2: Making the Sweet Cinnamon Filling

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using).

Add the salt and stir to mix everything together evenly.

This is the base of the spiced filling that will infuse the apples with sweetness.

If you’re using raisins and/or nuts, add them to the sugar and spice mixture.

The raisins will absorb the sweet syrup as the apples bake, and the nuts will provide a delightful crunch, creating an irresistible texture contrast.

Step 3: Assembling the Baked Apples

Place your prepared apples in a baking dish, one that’s large enough to hold all of them snugly but not too crowded.

Carefully spoon the sugar and spice mixture into the core of each apple, pressing down gently to pack it in.

Once the apples are stuffed, place a small piece of butter on top of each apple.

The butter will melt as the apples bake, creating a rich, sweet glaze that soaks into the apples, making them tender and flavorful.

Step 4: Baking the Apples

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the apples are stuffed and ready, drizzle the lemon juice over them to enhance the flavor and prevent browning.

Pour about 1/4 cup of water into the bottom of the baking dish, just enough to help steam the apples as they bake and create a syrupy glaze.

You can also add a bit of vanilla extract into the water if you want a richer flavor profile.

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake the apples for about 40–45 minutes, or until they are fork-tender but still hold their shape.

Check them occasionally to ensure they are not overcooking, as you want them to be soft without falling apart.

You may want to baste them with the syrup in the pan halfway through the baking time to enhance their flavor.

Step 5: Serving Your Baked Apples

Once the apples are golden and tender, remove them from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

The baked apples can be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

For an even more decadent dessert, pair them with a side of freshly brewed coffee or a warm cup of spiced tea.

Tips for Perfect Cracker Barrel Baked Apples

Achieving the perfect Cracker Barrel Baked Apples requires just a few tips and tricks to make sure each bite is as tender, flavorful, and comforting as possible.

Here are some key pointers to help you elevate your baked apples:

1. Choose the Right Apples

The type of apple you use can make a big difference in the final texture and flavor.

Opt for apples that are firm and hold their shape well during baking.

Granny Smith apples are a popular choice due to their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the sugar and spices.

Honeycrisp apples, with their natural sweetness and crisp texture, also work wonderfully.

Avoid soft, overly ripe apples like Red Delicious, as they may become mushy when baked.

2. Don’t Overstuff the Apples

When filling the apples with the cinnamon-sugar mixture, be careful not to overstuff them.

While it’s tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, leaving a little space at the top ensures that the apples cook evenly.

Too much filling could also spill out and create a mess during baking.

3. Bake at the Right Temperature

Baking the apples at 350°F (175°C) is key to achieving a tender, perfectly baked apple.

If the oven temperature is too high, the apples might cook too quickly on the outside, leaving the inside undercooked.

If it’s too low, they may dry out or take too long to cook.

Keep an eye on them during the last 10 minutes of baking to ensure they don’t overcook.

4. Baste for Extra Flavor

Halfway through baking, baste the apples with the syrupy liquid that forms in the baking dish.

This will help the apples absorb the sweet, buttery glaze, making them even more flavorful.

A basting brush works well, or you can spoon the liquid over the apples directly.

5. Let the Apples Rest Before Serving

After the apples are done baking, give them a few minutes to rest before serving.

This allows the syrup to settle and the apples to firm up a bit, making them easier to serve without falling apart.

How to Customize Your Cracker Barrel Baked Apples Recipe

While the classic Cracker Barrel Baked Apples recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to make it your own with a few simple tweaks.

Here are some ideas for customizing the recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences:

1. Add Extra Spices for a Flavor Twist

While cinnamon is the star of this recipe, you can add other spices to give your baked apples a unique flavor.

Try incorporating a pinch of allspice, cloves, or ginger to complement the cinnamon.

These spices can add depth and warmth to the dish, perfect for colder months or holiday gatherings.

2. Experiment with Different Nuts

Cracker Barrel Baked Apples often feature walnuts or pecans, but you can use any type of nut you prefer.

Try adding almonds for a lighter, slightly sweet flavor or hazelnuts for a richer, earthier taste.

If you’re allergic to nuts or prefer a nut-free version, you can simply leave them out.

3. Make It Vegan or Dairy-Free

For a vegan or dairy-free twist on this recipe, swap out the butter for plant-based alternatives like coconut oil, vegan butter, or even a bit of olive oil.

You can also substitute the vanilla ice cream or whipped cream with dairy-free versions made from coconut, almond, or oat milk.

4. Add Caramel or Chocolate for Extra Sweetness

For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle the baked apples with caramel sauce or melted chocolate after they come out of the oven.

The rich sweetness of the caramel or the smoothness of chocolate will take the dessert to a whole new level of decadence.

5. Make a Saucy Topping

Create a sauce to drizzle over your baked apples by adding a bit of heavy cream, brown sugar, and butter to the pan once the apples are baked.

Simmer the sauce for a few minutes until it thickens, then pour it over the apples for an extra rich finish.

6. Switch Up the Fruit

While apples are the traditional choice for this recipe, you can also use pears, peaches, or a mix of both for a fruity twist.

These fruits will cook similarly to apples but provide a different flavor profile—pears offer a milder sweetness, while peaches bring a slightly tangy, juicy contrast.

7. Make It Gluten-Free

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so there’s no need for special substitutions unless you’re adding toppings or crusts.

If you decide to add a crumb topping, simply use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free oats.

By experimenting with these suggestions, you can easily tailor the Cracker Barrel Baked Apples recipe to your own tastes and preferences, making it a unique and memorable dessert every time you make it.

Whether you stick with the classic version or put your own spin on it, this dish will always bring comfort and joy to your table.

Nutritional Information: What to Expect from Cracker Barrel Baked Apples

Cracker Barrel Baked Apples are a delicious indulgence, but it’s always helpful to know what’s in your dessert.

Here’s an estimate of what to expect when enjoying this comforting treat.

Keep in mind that the exact nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, particularly if you add extras like nuts or raisins.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving – 1 apple):

• Calories: Approximately 250–300 calories
• Total Fat: 10–15 grams (mostly from butter or vegan alternatives)
• Saturated Fat: 6–8 grams (if using butter)
• Carbohydrates: 45–55 grams
  • Sugars: 35–40 grams (from the natural sugars in apples and added sugars from brown sugar)
  • Fiber: 3–4 grams (depending on the type of apple and skin left on)
• Protein: 1–2 grams
• Sodium: 50–100 milligrams (if salt is used)
• Cholesterol: 25–40 milligrams (if using butter)

Healthier Modifications:

If you’re looking to lighten the recipe, consider reducing the amount of brown sugar, using less butter, or substituting with plant-based alternatives.

Additionally, skipping the ice cream or whipped cream topping will cut down on the calories and fat.

While Cracker Barrel Baked Apples are a treat to enjoy occasionally, you can always tweak the recipe to make it more suitable for your dietary needs.

Recipe Variation

1. Add Extra Spices: For a warm twist, try adding a pinch of allspice, cloves, or ginger to the cinnamon and nutmeg mixture.
   
   This will give your baked apples an extra layer of flavor perfect for cooler months or festive gatherings.
   
2. Switch Up the Fruit: While apples are the traditional choice, you can also use pears or peaches.
   
   These fruits offer unique flavors, with pears being sweeter and peaches adding a juicy, tangy contrast.
   
3. Vegan/Dairy-Free: Replace butter with plant-based alternatives like coconut oil, vegan butter, or olive oil.
   
   For a dairy-free topping, use coconut or almond milk-based ice cream or whipped cream.
   
4. Nuts & Raisins: Customize your filling by adding different nuts such as almonds or hazelnuts for variety.
   
   If you prefer a nut-free version, you can simply omit them or replace them with raisins for a more classic taste.
   
5. Caramel or Chocolate: Elevate the sweetness with a drizzle of caramel sauce or melted chocolate after baking for an indulgent, decadent dessert.
   
6. Make It Gluten-Free: If you decide to add a crumb topping or additional ingredients like oats, simply swap in a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free oats.

Serving Suggestions

Warm with Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: Serve the baked apples warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a comforting, indulgent dessert.

With a Hot Beverage: Pair with freshly brewed coffee or a cup of spiced tea for a cozy, dessert-worthy treat.

Top with a Sauce: For an extra indulgence, make a rich sauce by simmering heavy cream, brown sugar, and butter in the pan after the apples bake.

Drizzle it over the apples for an added layer of sweetness and richness.

As a Side Dish: This recipe also makes a great side dish for holiday meals or family dinners, offering a sweet, warm complement to the main course.

Storage Instructions

• Storing Leftovers: Once the baked apples have cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  
• Reheating: To reheat, place the baked apples in a baking dish and cover with foil.
  
  Warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
  
  Alternatively, you can microwave individual apples for 1-2 minutes.
  
• Freezing: You can freeze the baked apples before or after baking.
  
  To freeze, place the cooled apples in a freezer-safe container or wrap each apple individually in plastic wrap.
  
  Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Making Cracker Barrel Baked Apples at Home

Cracker Barrel Baked Apples are a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special.

The sweet, cinnamon-scented apples are tender yet firm, soaked in a rich syrupy glaze that’s warm and comforting.

Whether you’re enjoying them as a side dish, a dessert, or a treat for special occasions, they have a way of bringing people together around the table.

The recipe is versatile, allowing you to add your own personal touch by adjusting the spices, adding nuts, or even making it dairy-free.

With just a bit of time and love, you can recreate this classic dessert in the comfort of your own kitchen, filling your home with the delightful aroma of baked apples.

So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to the comforting goodness of Cracker Barrel Baked Apples.

It’s an easy-to-make dessert that feels just as special as the memories it creates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cracker Barrel Baked Apples

• Can I make Cracker Barrel Baked Apples ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the apples and fill them with the sugar-spice mixture a day ahead.

Simply cover them and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

When you’re ready to serve, just bake them at 350°F as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure they’re heated through.

• Can I use a different fruit besides apples for this recipe?

While apples are the traditional choice for this recipe, you can also use pears, peaches, or a mix of fruits.

Keep in mind that different fruits will cook at different rates, so adjust the baking time accordingly.

Pears, for example, may need slightly less time than apples.

• How do I store leftover baked apples?

Store any leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes, or microwave them until warmed through.

• Can I freeze baked apples for later?

Yes, you can freeze baked apples. Once they’ve cooled completely, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and freeze.

When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes.

• What can I serve with Cracker Barrel Baked Apples?

Cracker Barrel Baked Apples are delicious on their own, but they pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

For a more indulgent dessert, serve with a rich custard or a slice of warm pound cake.

These apples also make a lovely side dish when paired with roasted meats like pork or chicken.