This copycat Cracker Barrel Fried Apples recipe is as close as you can get to eating the real deal. You might as well be sitting in the restaurant, instead you're enjoying it in the comfort of your own home. Deliciously soft, sweet and full of fall spices.

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Any apple recipe is going to be more popular in the fall (it's apple season) and this copycat recipe is no exception. It's perfect as a Thanksgiving side dish. However, it's actually a favorite of mine - that means in my house it's served any time of year.

This classic southern side dish has been a fixture on the menu of Cracker Barrel restaurants for years and for good reason. I think it's most people's favorite thing on there.

What makes this recipe so yummy

• Delicious fried apples have so much versatility. Enjoy as a sweet side dish for a main course, as I mentioned earlier, with, for example, some pork chops or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream and enjoy as a dessert.
• It's a super easy recipe to make with very few ingredients.
• Absolutely everyone loves fried apples, it's great comfort food.
• It's basically the same as apple pie filling and so you could make a large batch and make a pie too.
• You could add it to your slow cooker, as another easy cooking option.
• You could serve as a side for your Thanksgiving meal, it pairs perfectly with a Thanksgiving turkey.

Groceries you'll need: Ingredients

• Apples - I like to use Granny Smith Apples or Honey Crisp, tart apples are best for this recipe plus they hold their shape better.
• White Sugar - for sweetness.
• Brown Sugar - for sweetness and texture.
• Butter - to fry the apples in.
• Apple Juice - for added fluid to make the sauce.
• Apple Pie Spice - this just makes life a little easier than adding separate spices.
• Cornstarch - for thickening the sauce.

See recipe card at the bottom of this post for quantities.

Recipe walkthrough: Instructions

This is an overview of the recipe steps. For more detailed instructions visit the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

• Step 1: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Step 2: Add the sugars, apple pie spice and cornstarch to a resealable bag and shake well to mix.
• Step 3: Add the peeled sliced apples to the bag with the spice mixture and shake well, moving the apple slices around to mix and become coated, evenly.
• Step 4: Add the apple mixture to the hot skillet and melted butter along with the apple juice and move the apples around to cover the skillet.
• Step 5: Turn down to low- medium heat and cover the skillet.
• Step 6: Cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Step 7: Once the apples are nicely softened serve immediately.

For a cute fall inspired recipe, you should check out my Thanksgiving Cake Pop Recipe, these little turkeys are so adorable.

Recipe variations and substitute ideas

• Juicy Apples - The best apples are the more tart varieties like granny smith however, some like to use a sweet apples like golden delicious apples or a pink lady.
• Apple Cider Vinegar - try adding a spoon full.
• Bacon Drippings - Melt bacon drippings in the skillet, instead of butter.
• Apple Cider - instead of the apple juice.

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Necessary gear: Equipment

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I have a list of equipment I may have used in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

I would recommend a cast-iron skillet though, for a nice even heat distribution.

More Cracker Barrel recipes I think you'll love

• Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese - deliciously creamy and full of cheese mac and cheese is a staple side dish for any meal.
• Cracker Barrel Chicken and Rice - this recipe is a long time favorite in the south.
• Cracker Barrel Sweet Potato Casserole - a simple classic that is perfect for the holidays.
• Cracker Barrel Fried Apples - these apples are perfect as a side dish, next to some turkey or pair with some ice cream and it tastes great as a dessert. So flexible.

Check out this list of awesome Thanksgiving Side Dishes.

How to store leftovers

Once cooled completely store leftover fried apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Mel's kitchen notes

Sprinkle lemon juice over your apple slices to stop any browning from occurring. Make this recipe with just a handful of ingredients.

Frequently asked questions: FAQs

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