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southern fried apples recipe Side view of warm glazed fried apples stacked in a bowl

Southern Fried Apples (Cracker Barrel Copycat)

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These tender, cinnamon-spiced fried apples are a comforting Southern classic. Simmered in a rich, buttery syrup until golden and soft, they taste just like the famous Cracker Barrel side dish. Perfect as a holiday side, a breakfast topping for pancakes, or a simple dessert served warm with vanilla ice cream.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large Golden Delicious apples, cored and sliced into 1/2-inch wedges (unpeeled)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tbsp cold water, optional for thicker syrup)

Instructions

  1. Wash the apples thoroughly. Core them and slice into uniform 1/2-inch wedges. Leave the skins on for that authentic Cracker Barrel texture and color. Toss the slices in a large bowl with lemon juice to prevent browning.
  2. In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once bubbly, add the apple slices, spreading them out as much as possible.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apples in the skillet.
  4. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to low. Simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring gently halfway through, until the apples are tender and juicy.
  5. Remove the lid and increase heat to medium-high. Cook for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the liquid to reduce into a thick, glossy syrup that coats the apples. If a thicker sauce is desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
  6. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken further. Serve warm.

Notes

Golden Delicious apples are best as they hold their shape well during cooking; Granny Smith can be used for a tart contrast. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

  • Author: Cook Reel
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 260
  • Sugar: 38g
  • Sodium: 55mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 44g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Find it online: https://cookreel.com/southern-fried-apples-recipe/

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