Name: Slow Cooker Fried Apples
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487940H20M21S
Total time: PT-487940H20M21S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 large apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji), peeled, cored, and sliced; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, sliced; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Pinch of salt

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe captures the flavors of fried apples without the stovetop fuss. The slow cooker does all the work, letting the apples cook low and slow until they’re perfectly tender and infused with warm spices. They’re versatile, family-friendly, and taste like a bite of fall in every spoonful.

Ingredients

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

Apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
Unsalted butter
Brown sugar
Granulated sugar
Ground cinnamon
Nutmeg (optional)
Vanilla extract
Lemon juice
Pinch of salt

Directions

Prepare apples by peeling, coring, and slicing them into even wedges.
Place apple slices in the slow cooker.
Add butter, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, lemon juice, and salt.
Stir to coat the apples evenly in the mixture.
Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours, or until apples are tender and syrupy.
Stir gently before serving warm.

Servings and timing

Serves 6 people.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3–4 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes – 4 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Spiced Apples: Add cloves, allspice, or cardamom for a deeper flavor.
Boozy Apples: Stir in a splash of bourbon, rum, or apple cider for extra richness.
Cranberry Twist: Add dried cranberries for tart pops of flavor.
Maple Sweetened: Replace some of the sugar with pure maple syrup.
Chunky Sauce: Mash lightly for a rustic applesauce consistency.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warm.
Freeze in portions for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

What are the best apples to use?

Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples work well since they hold their shape.

Can I leave the peels on?

Yes, but peeling gives a softer, smoother result.

Do I need to stir while cooking?

No, but give them a gentle stir at the halfway mark if you’d like.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just use a larger slow cooker and extend the cooking time slightly.

Can I make them less sweet?

Yes, reduce the sugar or use only brown sugar for a milder sweetness.

Can I add nuts?

Yes, pecans or walnuts add a delicious crunch when sprinkled on before serving.

How do I prevent the apples from turning mushy?

Use firm apple varieties and avoid overcooking.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, though butter gives the best flavor.

Can I cook them on high?

Yes, cook on high for 1½–2 hours, but low heat gives better caramelization.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Fried Apples are a sweet, cozy, and versatile dish that’s perfect as a side, topping, or dessert. With just a handful of ingredients and your slow cooker doing all the work, you’ll have tender, caramelized apples that taste like pure comfort.