Imagine a warm, comforting dish that captures the essence of Southern hospitality and the rich flavors of autumn. Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are a beloved side dish that combines tender apples, sweet brown sugar, and a hint of spice to create a delightful treat that’s perfect for any meal. These apples are not just a side dish; they are a cultural icon, evoking memories of cozy family gatherings and traditional Southern cuisine. The combination of buttery goodness, the crunch of fresh apples, and the subtle warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg will transport you to a place where time stands still and flavors come alive.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 golden delicious apples, cored and cut into 1/4-inch slices
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg
Instructions
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Prepare the Apples: Core and slice the apples into 1/4-inch wedges. You can leave the peels on if you prefer a more rustic texture or peel them for a smoother finish.
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Melt the Butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. If you have bacon drippings, you can use those for an extra layer of flavor.
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Add Apples and Spices: Spread the apple slices evenly over the skillet bottom. Sprinkle the brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg over the apples.
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Cover and Cook: Cover the skillet and cook over low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the apples cook slowly and retain their moisture.
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Finish with Lemon: After 15 minutes, remove the cover and squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the apples for an extra burst of flavor.
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Serve: Use a slotted spoon to serve the fried apples warm. They are perfect as a side dish or even as a dessert topped with vanilla ice cream.
Top Tips
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Choose the Right Apples: Golden delicious apples are traditional for this recipe, but you can also use other tart apples like Granny Smith or Honey Crisp for a slightly different flavor profile.
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Don’t Overcook: The key to tender apples is not to overcook them. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
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Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg will give your apples a more vibrant flavor than pre-ground spices.
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Add a Twist: If you want to add a bit of extra sweetness, you can drizzle a small amount of honey over the apples before serving.
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Make Ahead: While it’s best to serve the fried apples immediately, you can prepare the apples and spices ahead of time and cook them just before serving.
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Experiment with Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices like allspice or cardamom to create unique flavor profiles.
Variations
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Slow Cooker Method: Place the apple slices in a slow cooker with the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook on low for 2-3 hours until the apples are tender.
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Bacon Drippings: Use bacon drippings instead of butter for an extra smoky flavor.
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Cornstarch Thickening: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the apples during the last few minutes of cooking.
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Apple Cider Glaze: Drizzle a small amount of apple cider over the apples before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
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Vanilla Ice Cream Topping: Serve the fried apples with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
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Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon sugar over the apples before serving for an extra crunchy topping.
Nutritional Guide
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 78 kcal |
| Total Fat | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Protein | 0g |
Additional Nutritional Notes: This recipe is relatively low in calories and fat but high in carbohydrates due to the natural sugars in the apples. The addition of brown sugar and spices enhances the flavor without significantly increasing the nutritional content. This dish is perfect for those looking for a comforting, sweet treat without excessive calories.
