Slow Cooker Apple Crisp is a delightful and effortless dessert that brings the classic comfort of homemade apple crisp into a more convenient format. This recipe highlights the perfect blend of tender, spiced apples and a buttery, crisp topping, all slow-cooked to perfection.
Imagine the aroma of sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples filling your kitchen as they gently cook in the slow cooker. The apples, with their soft and slightly caramelized texture, provide a juicy and flavorful base. They are complemented by a topping that’s a harmonious mix of oats, flour, brown sugar, and butter. As it cooks, the topping becomes wonderfully crisp and golden, adding a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender apples beneath.
The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich, comforting dessert that’s perfect for any season. The ease of preparation makes it an ideal choice for busy days or casual gatherings, as you can set it up in the morning and come home to a ready-to-serve treat.
Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, Slow Cooker Apple Crisp offers a heartwarming end to any meal. Its combination of sweet, spiced apples and a crunchy, buttery topping is sure to please family and friends alike, making it a versatile and beloved dessert option.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 5-6 medium apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Apples: In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until well coated.
- Layer the Apples: Transfer the seasoned apples to the slow cooker and spread them out evenly.
- Make the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the Topping: Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the apples in the slow cooker.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Serve: Allow the apple crisp to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips:
- Apple Variety: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a balanced flavor. Granny Smith apples add a nice tartness that contrasts well with the sweet topping.
- Butter Temperature: Ensure the butter is cold when mixing with the dry ingredients to achieve a crumbly topping.
- Thicker Topping: For a thicker topping, you can add a little more flour or oats to the mixture.
- Garnish: Garnish with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven before serving.
Enjoy your Slow Cooker Apple Crisp—it’s a warm, comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!
