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Cracker Barrel Apples

Helen T. Patterson
Cracker Barrel apples are a sweet and spiced side dish that perfectly balances tender apples, warm cinnamon syrup, and a hint of butter.
This dish is a comforting favorite, commonly served at Cracker Barrel restaurants, but now you can easily recreate it at home.
Whether as a side for your dinner or as a sweet treat for breakfast or dessert, these cinnamon apples are sure to please.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dessert, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Southern
Servings 4 servings
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • Knife: For slicing apples
  • Vegetable Peeler: For peeling the apples
  • Cutting Board: To prepare apples
  • Medium-Sized Saucepan: For making the syrup and cooking apples
  • Wooden Spoon or Silicone Stirring Spoon: For stirring the apples and syrup
  • Measuring Spoons & Cups: For accurately measuring ingredients

Ingredients
  

  • 4 medium apples peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch optional, for thickening
  • 2 tablespoons water if using cornstarch

Instructions
 

Prepare the Apples:

  • Peel, core, and slice the apples into ½-inch thick wedges.
    If desired, toss the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.

Make the Syrup:

  • In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
    Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
    Stir to combine until the sugars dissolve, and the mixture becomes smooth and syrupy.
    Stir in the vanilla extract.

Cook the Apples:

  • Add the sliced apples to the saucepan, tossing them in the syrup. Allow them to cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender but still hold their shape, and the syrup thickens to a caramel-like consistency.

Adjust the Syrup (Optional):

  • If you prefer a thicker syrup, mix the cornstarch and water to make a slurry, then add it to the apples.
    Stir well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the syrup thickens.

Serve and Enjoy:

  • Once the apples are tender and coated in syrup, remove the pan from the heat. Let the apples rest for a few minutes before serving.
    Serve as a side dish, dessert, or topping for pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal.

Notes

  • Apple Variety: Use firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the best texture. Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness that complements the sweetness of the syrup, while other varieties like Honeycrisp offer a sweeter flavor.
  • Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste. For a less sweet dish, reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.
  • Make-Ahead: This recipe can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the apples, but they may become softer once thawed.
Keyword Cracker Barrel Apples