Few things capture the essence of comfort food quite like a warm bowl of spiced apples.
Crock Pot Fried Apples bring the taste of a beloved restaurant dish right into your home, with all the coziness and none of the fuss.
Perfectly tender, sweet, and spiced just right, these apples are a versatile dish that can be served as a side, dessert, or even a breakfast topping.
What makes this version extra special is the crock pot—making it incredibly simple and allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully over time.
Let’s dive into this easy, mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Why We Love This Recipe
There’s no shortage of reasons to fall in love with crock pot fried apples.
First, they’re unbelievably easy to make.
With just a handful of ingredients and a crock pot, you’ll have a dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Second, they’re perfectly versatile.
Serve them warm over pancakes, waffles, or ice cream, or enjoy them as a comforting side dish alongside roasted meats.
Third, the crock pot does all the work.
This hands-off cooking method means you can focus on other things while your house fills with the irresistible aroma of spiced apples.
Another reason to love this recipe is the balance of flavors.
The sweetness of the apples, the warmth of the cinnamon, and the richness of the butter create a harmony that’s truly irresistible.
Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner, a potluck, or a holiday gathering, these apples always steal the show.
Ingredients
Preparation Details
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 4 hours (on low) or 2 hours (on high)
- Serves: 6
For the Fried Apples
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Fuji), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup apple juice or water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and slice the apples into even wedges.
For consistency, try to keep the slices about 1/4 inch thick to ensure they cook evenly.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
In the crock pot, layer the sliced apples evenly.
Sprinkle the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice (if using) over the apples.
Add the small pieces of butter on top.
Step 3: Add the Liquid
Pour the apple juice or water into the crock pot, ensuring the liquid reaches the bottom to help prevent sticking.
Step 4: Cook
Set the crock pot to low and cook for 4 hours, or set it to high and cook for 2 hours.
Stir occasionally to evenly coat the apples with the sugar and spices.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry.
Stir the slurry into the apples during the last 15 minutes of cooking and let it thicken.
Step 6: Serve
Once the apples are tender and the sauce is rich and glossy, serve them warm.
They’re perfect on their own, topped with whipped cream, or paired with pancakes, waffles, or vanilla ice cream.
Tips for the Perfect Crock Pot Fried Apples
Choose the Right Apples
Granny Smith apples are tart and hold their shape well, while Fuji apples are sweeter and softer.
A mix of the two creates the best balance.
Don’t Skip the Butter
The butter adds richness and helps the spices stick to the apples, creating a velvety sauce.
Stir Occasionally
Stirring every hour ensures the apples cook evenly and absorb the spices fully.
Adjust the Sweetness
Taste the apples midway through cooking and adjust the sugar to suit your preference.
Add a Citrus Twist
A splash of lemon juice brightens the flavors and prevents the apples from browning too much.
Variations to Try
Caramel Fried Apples: Replace the granulated sugar with caramel sauce for an indulgent twist.
Maple-Infused Apples: Swap the brown sugar for pure maple syrup for a warm, earthy sweetness.
Nutty Apples: Stir in 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added crunch.
Spiced Cider Apples: Use spiced apple cider instead of plain apple juice for an extra layer of flavor.
Cranberry-Apple Blend: Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries for a tart, chewy addition.
Healthy Version: Reduce the sugar and replace the butter with coconut oil for a lighter option.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage
Let the apples cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
Store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing
To freeze, place the apples in a freezer-safe bag or container, leaving some space for expansion.
They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the apples in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals until warm.
Final Thoughts
Crock Pot Fried Apples are the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor.
They capture everything you love about this classic dish while being easy enough for everyday cooking.
Whether you’re serving them as a cozy side dish or an irresistible dessert, these apples bring comfort and joy to every bite.
So grab your crock pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to fill your home with the sweet, spiced aroma of homemade fried apples.
Happy cooking!