18 Delicious Cracker Barrel Apple Recipes to Try at Home
Apple season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a variety of delicious Cracker Barrel-inspired apple recipes? From classic desserts like pie and crisp, to savory dishes like glazed chicken and stuffed pork chops, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll dive into 18 mouthwatering apple recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household.
Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats or hearty meals, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? These recipes are all easy to make and require minimal ingredients, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. So grab an apple (or two, or three…) and let’s get cooking!
Old-Fashioned Fried Apples
A classic Southern treat that’s perfect for a cozy evening or as a sweet addition to your breakfast plate. Our recipe for Old-Fashioned Fried Apples is an easy and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of autumn year-round.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples and granulated sugar. Mix until the apples are evenly coated.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add the dry mixture to the apple mixture and toss until the apples are well-coated.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Carefully add the apple mixture to the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown, flipping occasionally.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cracker Barrel Apple Pie
A timeless favorite, this apple pie recipe is a staple of Southern hospitality. With tender apples and flaky crust, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups 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
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup cracker crumbs (Cracker Barrel’s signature crust)
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. Roll out cracker crumbs on a floured surface to desired thickness. Place in a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Arrange apple mixture in the crust, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Dot top of apples with butter pieces.
6. Roll out remaining crust and use to cover pie. Crimp edges to seal.
7. Brush egg wash over crust and cut slits for steam to escape.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Warm Apple Dumplings
A classic comfort food treat, these warm apple dumplings are perfect for a cozy night in or as a sweet surprise for friends and family. Made with tender apples, flaky pastry, and a hint of cinnamon, they’re sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
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, pressing edges to seal.
6. Place dumplings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Drizzle melted butter over dumplings.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day off right with a comforting bowl of apple cinnamon oatmeal, perfect for a chilly morning or a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/2 apple, diced (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until combined.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached your desired consistency.
4. Stir in the honey or maple syrup (if using).
5. Fold in the diced apple.
6. Serve warm, topped with additional cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramel Apple Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines caramelized apples, melted cheddar, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce
– 1-2 sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with a slice of cheese, a few apple slices, and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Grill for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and grill for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also toasted.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Apple Butter Pancakes
Start your day off right with a stack of fluffy Apple Butter Pancakes, infused with the warm spices and sweet flavor of apple butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 2 tablespoons apple butter
– Cinnamon or nutmeg for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a 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.
4. Stir in apple butter until well incorporated.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve warm with cinnamon or nutmeg sprinkled on top, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apple Cider Glazed Chicken
A sweet and tangy twist on classic chicken dishes, this recipe uses apple cider to create a sticky glaze that’s perfect for special occasions or weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider, honey, Dijon mustard, and salt.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apple Pecan Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of apples with the crunch of pecans, all wrapped up in a tangy dressing. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 large apple, diced (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced apple, and chopped pecans.
2. If using blue cheese, crumble it over the salad.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey until well combined.
4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Apple Streusel Muffins
Start your day with a deliciously moist and flavorful apple muffin topped with a crunchy streusel topping. This recipe is perfect for fall mornings or anytime you need a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 cup diced apples (about 2 medium-sized)
– Streusel Topping:
+ 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
+ 1/4 cup rolled oats
+ 1/2 cup brown sugar
+ 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
+ 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
+ 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
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 yogurt; stir until just combined.
4. Fold in diced apples.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Top each muffin with streusel topping (see below).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Streusel Topping:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Add melted butter; stir until mixture forms clumps.
Slow Cooker Apple Butter
Transform apples into a rich and tangy spread perfect for toast, biscuits, or as a filling for cakes and pastries. This slow cooker apple butter recipe is a low-maintenance way to preserve the flavors of fall in a deliciously easy-to-make condiment.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 cups chopped apples (Granny Smith or other varieties)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Add chopped apples, sugars, water, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Stir the mixture every few hours to prevent scorching.
4. Once the apples are tender and the liquid has evaporated, use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the mixture to desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Apple Cinnamon French Toast
Start your day with a delicious twist on classic French toast, infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of apples.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( challah or brioche work well)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup diced apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup or honey for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. While French toast is cooking, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add diced apple and cook, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender (about 5 minutes).
6. Serve French toast warm with melted butter and apple mixture spooned on top. Drizzle with maple syrup or honey if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream
A classic dessert that never goes out of style, this apple crisp is a perfect blend of tender apples, crunchy oat topping, and creamy vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Vanilla ice cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer the 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). Add melted butter and stir until crumbly.
5. Top the apple mixture with the oat topping, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
7. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Applewood Smoked Bacon and Apple Sandwich
This sweet and savory sandwich combines the richness of applewood smoked bacon with the crunch of fresh apples, all on a crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of applewood smoked bacon
– 2 ripe apples, sliced
– 1 baguette, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook the applewood smoked bacon slices for 4-5 minutes per side, or until crispy.
3. Meanwhile, toast the baguette pieces on the grill or in a toaster.
4. Spread a slice of toasted baguette with honey, then top with a few slices of cooked bacon and a handful of fresh apple slices.
5. Repeat for each sandwich, finishing with another slice of toasted baguette.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Moist and flavorful, this apple spice cake is infused with the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. The tangy cream cheese frosting adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup diced apples (about 2 medium-sized)
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
3. Add butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth. Fold in diced apples.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting (see below).
Cream Cheese Frosting:
1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until combined. Add vanilla extract.
Apple Fritters with Caramel Drizzle
Sweet Apple Fritters with Caramel Drizzle Recipe
Start your day or satisfy a sweet tooth with these crispy, cinnamon-spiced apple fritters drizzled with a rich caramel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chopped apples, flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and egg until well combined.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the apple mixture into the hot oil, forming fritters.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with caramel sauce drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Apple Cider Donuts
These fluffy donuts infused with apple cider flavor are perfect for a crisp autumn morning or as a sweet treat any time of the year. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying these delightful donuts in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons apple cider
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add milk, apple cider, and egg to the dry ingredients; mix until smooth.
4. Fry donuts for 1-2 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
5. Drain excess oil with paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes per batch
Baked Apples with Walnuts and Raisins
This recipe transforms crisp apples into tender, sweet, and aromatic treats by baking them with the perfect combination of nuts and dried fruits.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples, cored
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped walnuts, raisins, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Core the apples and fill each with the walnut-raisin mixture.
4. Place the apples in a baking dish, leaving some space between them.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the apples.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Apple Pecan Stuffed Pork Chops
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the richness of pork chops with the crunch of apple and pecans. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1 1/2 pounds)
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together onion, garlic, apple, pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
3. Cut a horizontal slit in each pork chop to create a pocket. Stuff each chop with the apple-pecan mixture.
4. Brush the outside of the chops with oil or butter.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and savory world of Cracker Barrel apple recipes! From classic comfort food like Old-Fashioned Fried Apples and Warm Apple Dumplings, to innovative twists like Caramel Apple Grilled Cheese and Apple Butter Pancakes, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover new favorite recipes like Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal, Apple Pecan Salad, and Slow Cooker Apple Butter. Treat yourself with sweet treats like Apple Streusel Muffins, Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream, or indulgent desserts like Fritters with Caramel Drizzle. Your taste buds will thank you!
