If you’ve been searching for a delightfully simple, comforting dessert or side dish, this Slow Cooker Fried Apples Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. It brings together tender, cinnamon-spiced apples cooked low and slow to develop the kind of warm, homey flavor that feels like a big hug in every bite. Whether you’re serving it alongside your holiday feast, dolloping it over vanilla ice cream, or spooning it onto your morning pancakes, these slow cooker fried apples will quickly become a cherished favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s something truly special about how a few straightforward ingredients can transform into a luscious, aromatic dish that fills your home with inviting scents. Each ingredient in this Slow Cooker Fried Apples Recipe plays a key part—apples bring natural sweetness and texture, spices add warmth and character, and butter creates that unforgettable richness.
- 8 apples: Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Cubed butter enriches the apples, giving a silky, mouthwatering finish.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and sweetness that perfectly complement the apples.
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon: This warm spice is classic in apple dishes and brings cozy, familiar flavor.
- ¾ teaspoon nutmeg: A small touch of nutmeg enhances the complexity of the spice blend.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps thicken the liquid released by the apples during cooking for that perfect, luscious texture.
- 3 tablespoons water: Just enough to help the cornstarch distribute evenly and cook down into a velvety sauce.
How to Make Slow Cooker Fried Apples Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples into even pieces. This prep work sets the stage for evenly cooked fruit that will soften just right while still holding its shape in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Coat Apples with Cornstarch
Next, toss the sliced apples with cornstarch in a large bowl. This step is important because the cornstarch will help thicken the juices released during cooking, resulting in that perfect, slightly syrupy finish that coats each apple slice beautifully.
Step 3: Mix Spices and Sugar
Combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and water in a separate bowl. Pour this fragrant mixture over the coated apples, ensuring every slice is kissed with that dreamy blend of spices and sweetness that defines the Slow Cooker Fried Apples Recipe.
Step 4: Add Butter
Cut the butter into small cubes and scatter them evenly over the apple mixture in the slow cooker. As they melt, the butter enriches the dish with luscious flavor and helps create a glossy finish.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 2 hours. This gentle, slow cooking allows the apples to soften beautifully and lets the flavors meld into that irresistible warm, spiced treat you’re after.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Fried Apples Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little extra flair can make serving these fried apples even more special. Try topping with a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch, a dollop of whipped cream for creaminess, or even a drizzle of honey to amplify the natural sweetness.
Side Dishes
The Slow Cooker Fried Apples Recipe pairs wonderfully with everything from breakfast to dinner. Serve alongside crispy pork chops or roast chicken to add a sweet contrast, or spoon over oatmeal or yogurt for a nourishing start to your day.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests, try serving the fried apples warmed in small ramekins topped with vanilla ice cream or folded into a warm pastry crust for a quick apple tartlet. They also make a lovely topping for cheesecake or pancakes, turning any meal into a celebration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Slow Cooker Fried Apples Recipe, simply transfer leftovers to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They stay delicious and moist for up to 4 days, making them perfect for quick snacks or dessert the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep your fried apples for longer, they freeze beautifully. Just portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm your fried apples in a saucepan over low heat or microwave until heated through. Stir occasionally to maintain that luscious, saucy texture and avoid drying out the apples.
FAQs
Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
Fresh apples work best to keep the texture firm and fresh, but if you only have frozen apples, make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
What type of apples are best for Slow Cooker Fried Apples Recipe?
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or balanced, crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji work beautifully, as they hold their shape and provide the ideal sweet-tart flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil to keep it vegan-friendly without sacrificing richness.
Is it possible to cook the apples longer?
Yes, you can extend the cooking time slightly, but be mindful not to overcook, as apples can turn mushy. Two hours on low is usually perfect for tender but still sliceable apples.
Can I add other spices or flavors?
Feel free to experiment. A pinch of ginger or cloves can add warmth, or a splash of vanilla extract right before serving can enhance the sweetness. The Slow Cooker Fried Apples Recipe is wonderfully adaptable!
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Slow Cooker Fried Apples Recipe enough—it’s one of those magical dishes that delivers comfort with very little fuss. Once you try it, you’ll see how effortlessly it brings warmth and sweetness to your table, making any occasion feel like a special celebration. Give it a go and watch this humble recipe become your new favorite classic.
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Slow Cooker Fried Apples Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
This Slow Cooker Fried Apples recipe offers a comforting and delicious way to enjoy tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with minimal effort. Cooked low and slow in a crockpot, these sweet, buttery apples make a perfect side dish or dessert that can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Fruits
- 8 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
Spices & Sweeteners
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- ¾ teaspoon nutmeg
Thickening Agent
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons water
Fat
- 4 tablespoons butter, cut into cubes
Instructions
- Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and slice all 8 apples into even pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
- Coat Apples: Toss the apple slices thoroughly with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to help thicken the sauce as they cook, then place them evenly into the crockpot.
- Combine Flavorings: In a separate bowl, mix together ¼ cup brown sugar, 1 tablespoon cinnamon, ¾ teaspoon nutmeg, and 3 tablespoons water until well combined, then pour this mixture over the apples in the crockpot.
- Add Butter: Cut 4 tablespoons of butter into small cubes and scatter them evenly on top of the apple mixture to add richness and flavor.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 2 hours, allowing the apples to become tender and the sauce to thicken into a sweet, spiced glaze.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Braeburn for the best balance of sweetness and acidity.
- To serve, enjoy warm as a dessert topping for ice cream or pancakes, or as a side dish to pork or chicken.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to maintain the best texture.
- You can adjust the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg to suit your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
