As the leaves begin to turn and the crisp autumn air sets in, there’s no better way to warm up than with a delicious apple-based recipe. At Cracker Barrel, we’re passionate about sharing our favorite fall flavors with you, and what’s more iconic than a sweet, crunchy apple? In this article, we’ll be diving into 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the star of the season: the humble apple. From classic desserts like apple pie and cobbler to savory dishes like stuffed pork chops and glazed chicken, we’ve got you covered with our collection of Cracker Barrel-inspired apple recipes. So grab a cup of hot cider and get cozy – it’s time to get baking!
Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
Savor the sweet taste of fall with Cracker Barrel’s signature Fried Apples recipe! This classic Southern dessert is a staple at the iconic restaurant chain, and now you can make it at home.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples (any variety), sliced into 1/2-inch thick wedges
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
2. Heat the melted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add apple mixture to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes or until apples reach your desired level of doneness.
4. Remove from heat and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Enjoy the crispy, sweet, and tender Fried Apples with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an added treat!
Cracker Barrel Apple Pie
A timeless favorite, this apple pie recipe is reminiscent of the classic treats served at Cracker Barrel restaurants. With a flaky crust and tender apples, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 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 ice-cold water
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place apples in the pie crust, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
4. Fold edges of crust up over apples, pressing gently to seal.
5. Brush egg wash over crust for a golden glaze.
6. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Cracker Barrel Apple Dumplings
Warm Apple Dumplings like those from Cracker Barrel are a classic comfort food treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe captures the sweet and flaky essence of these beloved desserts, making them easy to recreate at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of refrigerated biscuits (such as Grands)
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the biscuits and cut into 3-inch squares.
3. In a bowl, mix together sliced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Place an apple mixture in the center of each biscuit square.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or a log shape.
6. Place dumplings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Drizzle brown sugar and melted butter evenly over the dumplings.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cracker Barrel Apple Crisp
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this classic apple crisp recipe, inspired by the iconic Cracker Barrel restaurant. A blend of tender apples, crunchy oat topping, and a hint of cinnamon will fill your home with comforting warmth.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large 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 rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Top apple mixture with oat topping, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cracker Barrel Apple Butter
Get ready to taste the sweet and tangy flavor of Cracker Barrel’s famous apple butter! This recipe is a simplified version of their classic spread, perfect for topping toast, biscuits, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chopped apples (Granny Smith or other tart variety)
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine chopped apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and water.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture is thickened (about 30-40 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and cinnamon.
4. Let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container for storage.
Cooking Time: About 45 minutes total, including cooling time.
Cracker Barrel Apple Cider
Escape the ordinary and cozy up with a mug of our signature apple cider, just like you’d find at Cracker Barrel. This classic recipe is perfect for snuggling up by the fireplace or sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 gallons apple juice
– 1 gallon water
– 2 cups brown sugar
– 4 cinnamon sticks
– 4 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine apple juice, water, and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and nutmeg to the pot. Simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the spices to meld with the cider.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
4. Strain the cider into a large pitcher or individual mugs. Serve hot, garnished with a cinnamon stick if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes + 30 minutes steeping time
Enjoy your warm and comforting mug of Cracker Barrel-style apple cider!
Cracker Barrel Apple Fritters
These sweet treats are a perfect blend of tender apples, crispy fritter batter, and warm cinnamon sugar. Serve them fresh from the fryer or at room temperature for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Cinnamon sugar (see note)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chopped apples, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
2. Pour in milk and stir until mixture is just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F.
4. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop small balls of the apple mixture into the hot oil.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove fritters from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. While still warm, toss fritters in cinnamon sugar (1 tablespoon granulated sugar and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon mixed together).
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total frying time.
Cracker Barrel Apple Streusel Muffins
Start your day with a delicious twist on traditional muffins – these Apple Streusel Muffins are packed with juicy apples, crunchy streusel topping, and warm spices. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, they’re sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup diced apples (about 2-3 medium-sized)
– 1/2 cup streusel topping (see below for recipe)
– 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 diced apples; stir until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Sprinkle streusel topping over each muffin.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow to cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Mix dry ingredients and add butter; use your fingers or a pastry blender to work into crumbs.
Cracker Barrel Apple Turnovers
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these tender, flaky pastries filled with tender apples and cinnamon. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, these turnovers are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a 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 apples, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with melted butter and place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cracker Barrel Apple Pancakes
Start your day with a warm and comforting breakfast by whipping up these fluffy, apple-filled pancakes inspired by the classic Cracker Barrel recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or Gala)
– Cinnamon sugar, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk egg, milk, 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.
6. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
9. Serve warm with cinnamon sugar sprinkled on top, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Cracker Barrel Apple Bread Pudding
Experience the comforting flavors of Cracker Barrel’s signature Apple Bread Pudding at home! This moist and aromatic dessert is perfect for a cozy night in or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf stale Challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 apples, peeled and chopped (about 2 cups)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add chopped apples and stir until well combined.
4. Add bread cubes and toss until coated with the apple mixture.
5. Whisk eggs and heavy cream in a separate bowl, then pour over bread mixture and stir until fully absorbed.
6. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cracker Barrel Apple Cobbler
Get cozy with this classic dessert recipe, reminiscent of grandma’s kitchen. This apple cobbler is a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups 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 cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup biscuit mix (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Roll out biscuit mix on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Place over apple mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Dot the top with cold butter pieces.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
6. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cracker Barrel Apple Salad
Experience the warm hospitality of the Cracker Barrel with this classic apple salad recipe, featuring crisp Granny Smith apples, tangy cream cheese dressing, and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 large Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced apples and set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
3. Add the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour the cream cheese dressing over the apples and toss until coated.
5. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top (if using).
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep only)
Cracker Barrel Apple Stuffed Pork Chops
Experience the warmth of Cracker Barrel with this sweet and savory pork chop recipe, stuffed to perfection with crisp apples and a hint of cinnamon. This comforting dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and chopped
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion and apple in butter until tender.
3. Stuff each pork chop with the apple-onion mixture, dividing evenly among the four chops.
4. Season the stuffed pork chops with cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
5. Place the pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cracker Barrel Apple Glazed Chicken
Get ready to savor the flavors of fall with this tender and juicy apple glazed chicken, inspired by the classic comfort food from Cracker Barrel. This sweet and tangy dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a special occasion centerpiece.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup apple cider glaze (or substitute with apricot jam)
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 tsp cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider glaze, melted butter, Dijon mustard, honey, and cinnamon until smooth.
3. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chicken in a baking dish and brush the apple glaze mixture evenly over both breasts.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cracker Barrel Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Recreate the comforting aroma of Cracker Barrel’s famous cinnamon rolls at home with this easy recipe. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat, these soft and fluffy buns are filled with tender apples and topped with a crunchy cinnamon sugar mixture.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apples (Granny Smith or other sweet variety)
– Cinnamon sugar mixture (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead dough on floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth.
4. Roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Spread melted butter and chopped apples evenly.
5. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture over apples.
6. Roll up dough tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces.
7. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each roll.
8. Bake at 375°F for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cracker Barrel Apple Oatmeal Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are packed with the sweetness of apples, the warmth of cinnamon, and the comfort of oatmeal. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup diced apples (about 2-3 medium-sized apples)
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in diced apples.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Cracker Barrel Apple Pecan Pie
This classic Southern pie combines the sweetness of apples with the crunch of pecans, perfect for a family gathering or holiday feast. With its flaky crust and gooey filling, this Cracker Barrel-inspired recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice water
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced (about 2 cups)
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
4. Add sliced apples, chopped pecans, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the bowl; mix until combined.
5. Pour the apple-pecan mixture into the pie crust.
6. Roll out remaining pie crust to fit the top of the pie; crimp edges to seal.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cracker Barrel Apple Caramel Cake
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this moist and flavorful cake, reminiscent of a warm autumn day at the Cracker Barrel.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or Fuji)
– 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Beat in eggs until well combined.
5. Fold in diced apples and caramel sauce.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Cracker Barrel Apple Spice Cake
This classic American dessert combines the comfort of apples and spices with the warmth of a crumbly cake. A perfect treat for any occasion, this recipe yields a moist and flavorful cake that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or other sweet-tart variety)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, beat sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add flour mixture to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Fold in diced apples.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of fall with these 20 delicious Cracker Barrel-inspired apple recipes! From classic desserts like apple pie and crisp, to sweet treats like fritters and muffins, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget savory options like stuffed pork chops and glazed chicken. Whether you’re craving a warm and comforting breakfast or a decadent dessert, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, cozy up with a cup of apple cider, and start baking with these scrumptious Cracker Barrel-inspired apple treats!
