Name: Slow Cooker Fried Apples
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491929H39M29S
Total time: PT-491929H39M29S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced; 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Optional: 1/2 cup apple juice or apple cider

Slow Cooker Fried Apples are one of those comforting dishes I love making when I want something warm, sweet, and full of cozy spice. The apples turn tender and buttery as they slowly cook, creating a rich cinnamon sauce that tastes just like a homemade dessert from scratch. I enjoy serving them as a side dish or spooning them over pancakes, waffles, or even ice cream.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple this recipe is to prepare with just a few pantry staples. I put everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for me. The combination of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a warm, nostalgic flavor that fills my kitchen with an incredible aroma. I also appreciate how versatile this dish is since I can serve it as breakfast, dessert, or even alongside savory meals. The texture becomes perfectly tender without turning mushy, and I can easily adjust the sweetness or spice level to match my preference.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

6 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced

½ cup packed brown sugar

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional: ½ cup apple juice or cider for added moisture

Directions

I start by placing the peeled, cored, and sliced apples directly into the slow cooker.

In a small bowl, I mix together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg. I sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apples.

Next, I drizzle the melted butter, lemon juice, and vanilla extract over the top. If I want extra moisture and sauce, I pour in the apple juice or cider.

I gently toss everything to make sure the apples are well coated with the sugar and spice mixture.

Then I cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2 to 3 hours, stirring gently halfway through. I cook until the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened.

I serve the apples warm as a side dish, dessert, or as a topping for pancakes and waffles.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 2–3 hours on high

Total Time: About 2 hours 10 minutes to 3 hours 10 minutes

Variations

I sometimes like to mix tart and sweet apples together for a more complex flavor. I can add a splash of bourbon for a deeper, richer taste, or a pinch of ground cloves for extra warmth. When I want a slightly lighter version, I reduce the sugar a bit and rely more on the natural sweetness of the apples. I also enjoy adding chopped pecans at the end for a little crunch.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When I want to reheat them, I warm them gently in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, or heat them on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. If the sauce thickens too much after chilling, I add a small splash of water or apple juice while reheating.

Related Recipes:

Cinnamon Fried Apples

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples?

I can use many varieties of apples depending on what I have available. I find that combining tart apples like Granny Smith with sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp gives the best balance of flavor.

Can I cook this on low instead of high?

Yes, I can cook the apples on low for about 4–5 hours. This method gives me slightly firmer apples, while cooking on high results in softer apples.

How do I keep the apples from becoming mushy?

I make sure not to overcook them and check for tenderness around the 2-hour mark. Choosing firmer apple varieties also helps maintain a better texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

I often prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. I simply reheat it before serving, and it tastes just as delicious.

Can I freeze slow cooker fried apples?

I can freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. I thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Fried Apples are a simple, comforting recipe I enjoy making whenever I want an easy dish packed with warm cinnamon flavor. I love how effortless the preparation is and how versatile the final result can be. Whether I serve them for breakfast, dessert, or as a cozy side, this recipe always brings warmth and sweetness to my table.

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