There’s something magical about the warm, spiced aroma of cinnamon apples that feels like a cozy hug in every bite. This Copycat Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Apples recipe brings that nostalgic diner flavor right to your kitchen, with tender, caramelized apples swimming in a rich, buttery syrup. The balance of sweet and tangy, paired with a hint of spice, creates a dessert that’s as comforting as it is indulgent.
With just 15 minutes of prep and a slow simmer to perfection, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping treat. The soft, melt-in-your-mouth apples and velvety sauce are perfect over ice cream, pancakes, or enjoyed straight from the bowl. It’s a dessert that feels like home.
What You’ll Need for Copycat Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Apples
- 3 pounds Honeycrisp Apples (or substitute with Granny Smith or Fuji apples for a tart or sweet variation)
- ¼ cup brown sugar (packed for better consistency)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup honey (use maple syrup as a substitute if preferred)
- 1½ Tablespoons cinnamon (adjust to taste for more or less spice)
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (freshly grated for the best flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup butter, cubed (unsalted recommended for better control of saltiness)
- A pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)
How to Make Copycat Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Apples
- Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and cut the apples into ½-inch cubes. (Tip: Use an apple corer for quicker prep.)
- Combine ingredients: Transfer the apple cubes to the slow cooker. Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, cubed butter, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything well to coat the apples evenly.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high heat for 2½ hours. Stir the mixture every 45 minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Check for doneness: The apples should be tender but not mushy, and the sauce should be thick and glossy.
- Serve: Ladle the warm cinnamon apples into bowls. Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat. Enjoy immediately!
Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Topping Ideas
While this recipe is delicious on its own, you can elevate it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted pecans for added crunch. For a tangy twist, try a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of bourbon-infused whipped cream. These additions make the dish feel extra special!
How to Store and Reheat Your Cinnamon Apples
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply microwave in 30-second intervals or warm them gently on the stovetop over low heat. If the mixture thickens too much, add a splash of apple juice or water to loosen it up.
Quick Tips for Time-Saving Success
If you’re short on time, use an apple corer and slicer to speed up prep work. You can also cook the apples on low for 4-5 hours if you won’t be around to stir every 45 minutes. Just keep an eye on the texture to avoid overcooking!
Recipe Variations to Try
Swap Honeycrisp apples for Granny Smith or Fuji for a different flavor profile. For a healthier twist, reduce the sugar by half and add a splash of apple cider. You can also experiment with spices like cardamom or allspice to create a unique blend.
Why This Recipe Works: Special Notes
The slow cooker method ensures the apples stay tender without turning mushy, while the combination of honey and brown sugar creates a rich, caramel-like sauce. Stirring every 45 minutes helps distribute the flavors evenly, so don’t skip this step for the best results!
Copycat Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Apples
Ingredients
- 3 pounds Honeycrisp Apples
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup Honey
- 1½ Tablespoons cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup butter, cubed
- a pinch of salt
Instructions
- Peel and core the apples and cut them into ½ inch cubes.
- Transfer the apples to the basin of a slow cooker along with the brown sugar, granulated sugar, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, butter, and salt. Give everything a mix.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on high for 2 ½ hours. Be sure to stir every 45 minutes or so.
- Ladle the apple mixture into bowls and serve warm with vanilla ice cream and/or whipped cream.