Easy Slow Cooker Apple Crisp

Slow Cooker Apple Crisp is the ultimate easy dessert for apple lovers. With tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and a crunchy brown sugar oat topping, this dessert is perfect for busy days, family gatherings, or a cozy treat at home. Using a slow cooker ensures the apples stay juicy while the topping crisps up perfectly, and it can be served warm with vanilla ice cream or cold straight from the fridge.

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling

• 6 cups apples, peeled and sliced to approx. ½” thick
• Juice of half a lemon
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Oat Topping

• ½ cup flour
• ¾ cup old-fashioned oats
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup cold butter, cubed

Instructions

1. Spray a 6-quart slow cooker with non-stick spray.
2. Lay the sliced apples into the bottom of the slow cooker and squeeze the lemon juice over them. Stir to coat.
3. In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon; pour over apples and stir to coat evenly.
4. In another small bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon for the topping. Add cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to mix until crumbly.
5. Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples.
6. Line the top of the slow cooker with a paper towel and place the lid on top to collect condensation and keep the topping crisp.
7. Cook on HIGH for 1.5 hours. Remove the lid and cook for an additional 30–60 minutes to allow the topping to crisp.
8. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, or enjoy cold.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent treat.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the microwave for 30–60 seconds or until warm.

Variations

1. Caramel Apple Crisp – Drizzle caramel sauce over apples before cooking.
2. Maple Walnut Apple Crisp – Add chopped walnuts and a tablespoon of maple syrup to the topping.
3. Spiced Apple Crisp – Add nutmeg and allspice to the apple filling.
4. Ginger Apple Crisp – Stir 1 teaspoon ground ginger into the filling.
5. Cranberry Apple Crisp – Add 1 cup fresh cranberries to the apples.
6. Peach Apple Crisp – Mix in sliced peaches with the apples.
7. Gluten-Free Apple Crisp – Use almond flour and gluten-free oats in the topping.
8. Vegan Apple Crisp – Replace butter with coconut oil.
9. Apple Crisp with Raisins – Add ½ cup raisins to the filling.
10. Apple and Pear Crisp – Combine apples and pears for a subtle twist.
11. Pumpkin Spice Apple Crisp – Add ¼ cup pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice.
12. Almond Apple Crisp – Add ½ teaspoon almond extract to the filling.
13. Apple Crisp with Pecans – Sprinkle chopped pecans on top of the oat mixture.
14. Chocolate Chip Apple Crisp – Mix ¼ cup chocolate chips into the topping.
15. Apple Berry Crisp – Add 1 cup fresh blueberries or raspberries to the apple mixture.

FAQs

1. Can I make this in advance?
   Yes, assemble the crisp and refrigerate before cooking. Cook when ready.
2. Can I use frozen apples?
   Yes, but reduce sugar slightly and thaw them first to avoid excess liquid.
3. Do I need the paper towel trick?
   It helps keep the topping crisp, but it’s optional.
4. Can I double this recipe?
   Yes, use a larger slow cooker or cook in two batches.
5. What type of apples work best?
   Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji hold their shape well.
6. Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark?
   Yes, either works fine.
7. How long will leftovers last?
   Up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
8. Can I freeze apple crisp?
   Yes, freeze after cooking for up to 2 months.
9. Can I cook on low instead of high?
   Yes, cook on low for 3–4 hours or until apples are tender.
10. Can I skip the lemon juice?
    Lemon adds brightness and prevents browning, but you can omit it if needed.

This Slow Cooker Apple Crisp is simple, comforting, and perfect for any occasion. Its sweet, tender apples paired with a buttery oat topping make it a family favorite. With minimal prep and the convenience of a slow cooker, this dessert is as easy as it is delicious.

Print