As the leaves start to change and the crisp autumn air sets in, there’s nothing quite like cozying up with a warm, comforting dessert that celebrates the season’s star ingredient: apples. For many of us, Cracker Barrel is synonymous with those warm, fuzzy feelings – and what better way to bring that comfort into your own kitchen than with 19 delicious apple recipes that are sure to become new fall favorites? From classic fried apples to innovative twists on traditional pies and crisps, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats or savory snacks, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab a cup of hot cider, get cozy, and let’s dive into the most mouthwatering collection of Cracker Barrel apple recipes out there!
Classic Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this iconic Southern dessert, reminiscent of the classic comfort food served at Cracker Barrel restaurants. This simple recipe yields tender, caramelized apples smothered in a crunchy, buttery crust.
Ingredients:
• 2-3 firm apples (Granny Smith or Golden Delicious), peeled and sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup crushed pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, combine sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Add the sliced apples to the skillet and toss until they’re evenly coated with the dry mixture.
3. Pour in the melted butter and cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the apples are tender and caramelized.
4. If desired, sprinkle crushed pecans on top of the apples and continue cooking for an additional minute.
5. Serve warm, topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Classic Cracker Barrel Fried Apples!
Homemade Cracker Barrel Apple Pie
Get ready to experience the classic flavors of a traditional apple pie with our easy-to-make recipe. This homemade cracker barrel apple pie is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3-4 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, mix sliced apples, granulated sugar, honey, beaten egg, and milk.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with apple mixture and dot with butter.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Apple Butter
Get ready to experience the warm, comforting flavors of the famous Cracker Barrel apple butter at home! This slow cooker recipe makes it easy to create a delicious and tangy spread that’s perfect for topping biscuits, waffles, or using as a filling.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples (any variety), peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the chopped apples, sugar, water, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the apple mixture until smooth.
4. Let the apple butter cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Cracker Barrel Apple Cobbler
Experience the classic comfort of a homemade apple cobbler, just like grandma used to make! This recipe serves 8-10 people and is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
• 6 cups sliced apples (Granny Smith and Gala work well)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 package of Cracker Barrel Cobbler Topping Mix (available at most grocery stores)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Pour the apple mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle Cracker Barrel Cobbler Topping Mix evenly over the apple mixture.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the topping.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Southern-Style Cracker Barrel Apple Dumplings
Experience the warm comfort of a Southern classic with these tender and flavorful apple dumplings, reminiscent of the iconic Cracker Barrel restaurant.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and halved
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add melted butter, beaten egg, and milk; mix until a dough forms.
4. Wrap each apple half with the dough, sealing edges by pressing gently.
5. Place dumplings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm, dusting with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cracker Barrel Apple Crisp with Oat Topping
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this classic Cracker Barrel-inspired apple crisp, topped with a crunchy oat mixture. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and chopped walnuts (if using).
5. Add unsalted butter to oat mixture and stir until crumbly.
6. Spread oat topping evenly over apple filling.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Easy Cracker Barrel Apple Fritters
Easy Cracker Barrel Apple Fritters
Start your day with a sweet treat that’s reminiscent of the classic Cracker Barrel apple fritters, but with an easy twist. These bite-sized fritters are perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup diced apples (about 2-3 medium-sized apples)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine sugar, milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in diced apples.
6. Using a spoon, drop small balls of batter into the hot oil, about 1/4 cup each.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cracker Barrel Apple Pancakes with Cinnamon Syrup
Start your day off right with these fluffy and flavorful pancakes, topped with a sweet and sticky cinnamon syrup. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup diced apples (such as Granny Smith or Gala)
– Cinnamon syrup (recipe below)
Pancake Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Fold in diced apples.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cinnamon Syrup:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Combine sugar, water, and butter in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon.
Grilled Cracker Barrel Apple Slices with Caramel Drizzle
Elevate your snacking game with this easy recipe that combines the sweetness of caramel with the crunch of grilled apple slices. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, these bite-sized treats are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 large apple, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (such as Caramel Apple Dip from Cracker Barrel)
– Pinch of cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Add sliced apple and toss to coat.
3. Grill apple slices for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and tender.
4. Meanwhile, warm caramel sauce in the microwave according to package instructions.
5. Drizzle warmed caramel sauce over grilled apple slices and sprinkle with cinnamon.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cracker Barrel Apple Bread Pudding
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this comforting dessert inspired by the classic Cracker Barrel recipe. Moist apple bread pudding, topped with a crunchy streusel topping and served warm, is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale apple spice bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Streusel topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugars, cream, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Add bread cubes and stir until evenly coated.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with streusel topping (see below).
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Combine dry ingredients and add butter. Use a pastry blender or fingers to work until crumbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Warm Cracker Barrel Apple Cider
Warm Cracker Barrel Apple Cider Recipe
Savor the flavors of autumn with this comforting and aromatic apple cider recipe, perfect for crisp fall evenings or holiday gatherings. This warm cider is a delightful twist on traditional cold-pressed cider, infused with cinnamon and nutmeg for added warmth and depth.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or kettle, combine apple cider, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Stir in ground nutmeg and brown sugar (if using).
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional cinnamon sticks if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cracker Barrel Apple Streusel Muffins
Start your day off right with a batch of these scrumptious muffins, filled with the sweetness of apples and topped with a crunchy streusel topping. These moist and flavorful treats are perfect for breakfast on-the-go or as a snack to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 1/4 cup streusel topping (see below)
Streusel Topping:
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and diced apples; stir until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Top each muffin with streusel topping (see below).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips:
– Use fresh, crisp apples for the best flavor.
– Streusel topping can be made ahead and stored at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Baked Cracker Barrel Apple Slices with Brown Sugar Glaze
A sweet and savory twist on traditional apple slices, this recipe combines the flavors of brown sugar and cinnamon to create a delicious snack or dessert. Perfect for fall gatherings or as a healthy treat.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 apples (Granny Smith or other firm variety), sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar until well combined.
3. Add sliced apples to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the brown sugar mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange apple slices in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until apples are tender and caramelized.
6. If using pecans, sprinkle them over the apples during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cracker Barrel Apple Turnovers with Puff Pastry
Elevate your dessert game with these cracker Barrel-inspired apple turnovers, wrapped in flaky puff pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Spoon apple mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Fold other half of pastry over filling and press edges to seal. Use fork to crimp and create decorative edge.
6. Place turnovers on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each turnover.
7. Brush tops with melted butter and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Cracker Barrel Apple Sauce
Southern Cracker Barrel Apple Sauce: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe
This sweet and tangy apple sauce is a staple of Southern cuisine, reminiscent of the warm hospitality found at Cracker Barrel restaurants. Made with tender love and care, this homemade recipe is perfect for topping waffles, pancakes, or even using as a snack on its own.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith and Gala work well)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped apples, brown sugar, water, lemon juice, and cinnamon.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste.
5. Let cool before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cracker Barrel Apple Cheesecake Bars
These rich and gooey bars are a perfect blend of tender apples, creamy cheesecake, and crumbly crust, just like the classic dessert from Cracker Barrel.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup diced apples (about 2-3 medium-sized)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
3. Beat eggs and cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and diced apples; mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust. Sprinkle brown sugar on top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spiced Cracker Barrel Apple Cake
Experience the warm comfort of a classic apple cake infused with the warmth of spices and the crunch of crushed crackers.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup crushed crackers (e.g., Ritz or saltines)
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 2 cups diced apples (about 2-3 medium-sized apples)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine sugar, butter, eggs, and crushed crackers. Mix until well combined.
4. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Fold in diced apples.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cracker Barrel Apple Tart with Vanilla Ice Cream
Experience the cozy comfort of a crackling fireplace with this classic apple tart, paired with creamy vanilla ice cream. This simple yet satisfying dessert is perfect for family gatherings or a quiet evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (15 ounces) frozen pie crust, thawed
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 pint vanilla ice cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until evenly coated.
4. Arrange apple mixture in the tart crust, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the apples.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until apples are tender and crust is golden brown.
7. Serve warm with scoops of vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Caramelized Cracker Barrel Apple Pancakes
Savor the warmth of a classic breakfast with these scrumptious pancakes, infused with the sweetness of caramelized apples and the crunch of Cracker Barrel’s signature crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup crushed Cracker Barrel crackers
– 1/2 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– Caramel sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine sugar, milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in crushed crackers and diced apples.
6. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a taste of fall with these 19 delicious Cracker Barrel apple recipes! From classic fried apples to warm apple cider, and from homemade pie to caramelized pancakes, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at slow cooker apple butter, crispy cobbler, or sweet dumplings – the perfect treats for the season. Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet snack or a satisfying dessert, these Cracker Barrel-inspired recipes are sure to please.
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