Imagine sinking your teeth into a delightful dessert made from fresh, juicy apples, with a hint of cinnamon and a delectable crumble topping. This slow cooker apple crisp recipe transforms the simplest ingredients into a comforting, homey dessert that fills your home with an inviting aroma. It's perfect for those cozy nights in, and it's easy to make, too. All you need are some basic ingredients, a slow cooker, and a bit of time for the magic to happen.
The two main ingredients you will need for this recipe are apples and old-fashioned oats. You may already have these at home, but if not, they are easy to find in any supermarket. Make sure to choose firm, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results. The old-fashioned oats are crucial for the crumble topping, as they provide texture and absorb the apple juices. Almonds are also used in the crumble topping, providing a lovely crunch. You can find sliced almonds in the baking or nut aisle of your supermarket.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Apple Crisp
Apples: The base of this dessert. Choose firm and crisp apples for the best results.
Lemon juice: This helps to keep the apples from browning and adds a subtle tartness.
Brown sugar: Adds sweetness to both the apple base and the crumble topping.
Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the dish.
Salt: Helps to balance the sweetness.
Old-fashioned oats: Gives the crumble its classic texture.
Sliced almonds: Provides a nice crunch to the oat crumble.
All-purpose flour: Helps to bind the crumble together.
Butter: Used to bind the crumble ingredients together and adds richness.
One reader, Constancia Reaves says:
This slow cooker apple crisp recipe is a game-changer! The aroma of cinnamon and apples filled my home, and the crumble was perfectly crunchy. It was so easy to make, and the result was absolutely delicious. I loved serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A definite must-try!
Key Techniques for Perfect Slow Cooker Apple Crisp
How to prepare the apple crisp: This involves peeling, coring, and slicing the apples, then tossing them with lemon juice, brown sugar, and cinnamon before placing them in the slow cooker.
How to make the cinnamon oat crumble: This involves mixing oats, almonds, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter to create the crumble topping for the apple crisp.
How To Make Slow Cooker Apple Crisp
This unique take on an apple crisp calls for the use of a slow cooker to make a warm and comforting dessert with an oat-almond topping.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 8apples,peeled, cored and thinly-sliced
- 1tbsplemon juice
- ⅓cuppacked brown sugar
- 2tspMcCormick ground cinnamon
- pinch of salt
- vanilla ice cream, warm caramel sauce,optional serving suggestions
For Cinnamon Oat Crumble:
- 1cupold-fashioned oats,uncooked
- ⅔cupsliced almonds
- ½cupall-purpose flour
- ⅓cuppacked brown sugar
- 1tspground cinnamon
- pinch of salt
- 4tbspmelted butter,or coconut oil
Instructions
Apple Crisp:
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Add apples and lemon juice to a large mixing bowl, and toss to combine. Sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon and salt evenly on top, and toss until completely combined.
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Pour the entire mixture into the bowl of a large slow cooker, and spread everything out so that it is in an even layer.
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Prepare the cinnamon oat crumble (see below), and sprinkle it evenly on top of the apple mixture.
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Place a dish towel or a few paper towels on top of the slow cooker, and place the lid on top of the towel(s). The towels will help soak up the condensation that forms along the top of the lid, and keep that oat crumble nice and crisp.
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Cook on High for 3 to 4 hours, or on Low for 6 to 8 hours until the apples are soft and cooked through. Remove the lid and the towel(s), and serve the apple crisp immediately.
Cinnamon Oat Crumble:
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the oats, almonds, flour, sugar, cinnamon and salt until evenly combined.
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Drizzle the melted butter (or coconut oil) over the mixture, and then whisk until combined.
Nutrition
- Calories: 327.97kcal
- Fat: 10.68g
- Saturated Fat: 4.12g
- Trans Fat: 0.23g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.13g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.52g
- Carbohydrates: 58.47g
- Fiber: 7.00g
- Sugar: 37.27g
- Protein: 4.40g
- Cholesterol: 15.26mg
- Sodium: 303.11mg
- Calcium: 64.40mg
- Potassium: 327.41mg
- Iron: 1.55mg
- Vitamin A: 54.17µg
- Vitamin C: 9.15mg
Pro Tip for Nailing Slow Cooker Apple Crisp Every Time
When preparing the apple crisp, it's important to choose the right type of apples. Tart apples like Granny Smiths are a popular choice as they hold their shape well during the slow cooking process and their tartness balances out the sweetness of the brown sugar. However, you can also use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a more complex flavor profile. Just avoid using overly soft apples like Red Delicious, as they can become mushy when cooked.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Apple Crisp in a Slow Cooker
Prep ahead: Chop the apples and prepare the crumble topping the night before. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to save time on the day of cooking.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly mix the ingredients for the cinnamon oat crumble, saving time and effort compared to mixing by hand.
High setting: If you're short on time, cook the apple crisp on the high setting for 3-4 hours instead of the low setting for 6-8 hours.
Check for doneness: To save time, check the doneness of the apple crisp using a fork or toothpick. If the apples are soft and the crumble is golden, it's ready to serve.
Serve with premade toppings: Opt for store-bought vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce to save time on preparing additional toppings.
Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Apple Crisp Recipe
apples - Substitute with pears: Pears have a similar texture and sweetness to apples, making them a great substitute in apple crisp recipes. They also hold up well to cooking and provide a delicious flavor.
lemon juice - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can provide the acidity and tanginess that lemon juice offers, enhancing the flavor of the apple crisp.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the apple crisp, complementing the flavors of the apples and cinnamon.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg offers a warm and slightly sweet flavor that can replace cinnamon in the apple crisp, adding a different dimension to the dish.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour can be used as a gluten-free alternative, adding a nutty flavor and a slightly different texture to the crumble topping.
old-fashioned oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes can provide a similar texture and nutty flavor to oats, offering a nutritious alternative for the crumble topping.
sliced almonds - Substitute with chopped pecans: Pecans can add a rich, buttery flavor and crunch to the crumble, enhancing the overall texture and taste of the apple crisp.
How to Beautifully Present Apple Crisp
Elevate the plating: When presenting the slow cooker apple crisp, ensure that the apple crisp is elegantly and neatly arranged on the plate. Pay attention to the placement of the apple slices and the oat crumble to create an aesthetically pleasing presentation.
Garnish with finesse: Add a touch of sophistication to the dish by garnishing with a dusting of powdered sugar or a delicate sprinkle of edible flowers. This will add a pop of color and elevate the visual appeal of the apple crisp.
Incorporate a drizzle: Create an artful drizzle of warm caramel sauce on the plate before placing the apple crisp. The drizzle should be carefully executed to enhance the overall presentation and provide a delightful flavor contrast.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Choose serving dishes that complement the apple crisp. Opt for sophisticated, minimalist designs that allow the apple crisp to take center stage while adding a touch of refinement to the overall presentation.
Consider the use of negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to highlight the apple crisp. Allow the dish to breathe by strategically leaving areas of the plate empty, creating a visually striking and balanced presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Slow Cooker Apple Crisp
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making pie crusts, chopping nuts, or creating a crumbly topping for the apple crisp.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the apple crisp ingredients, such as the apples, lemon juice, brown sugar, and cinnamon. It's also used for preparing the cinnamon oat crumble topping.
- Slow cooker: A slow cooker, also known as a crockpot, is the key tool for making the apple crisp. It allows the apples to cook slowly and develop a rich, caramelized flavor while keeping the crumble topping crisp.
- Whisk: A whisk is used for combining the dry ingredients for the cinnamon oat crumble, ensuring an even distribution of the oats, almonds, flour, sugar, and cinnamon.
- Baking dish: A baking dish is used to hold the apple crisp mixture in the slow cooker and to provide a vessel for even cooking and serving.
Storing and Freezing Tips for Slow Cooker Apple Crisp
Allow the apple crisp to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the crumble soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled apple crisp to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the apple crisp. Divide it into individual portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label the containers with the date and contents.
When ready to enjoy a frozen portion, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. To reheat, place the thawed apple crisp in a baking dish and warm it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the crumble is crisp again.
Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish and heat it in 30-second intervals until warmed to your liking. Keep in mind that the crumble may not be as crisp when reheated in the microwave.
If you want to freeze the entire apple crisp, let it cool completely in the slow cooker insert. Then, wrap the insert tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you're ready to serve, thaw the apple crisp overnight in the refrigerator, remove the wrappings, and reheat it in the slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours, or until warmed through.
How To Reheat Leftover Apple Crisp
Reheat in the oven: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover apple crisp to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the topping.
Microwave method: place a portion of the apple crisp in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it on high power for 30-60 seconds, depending on the quantity and your microwave's wattage. Check the temperature and stir gently to distribute the heat evenly. If needed, heat for an additional 15-30 seconds until warmed to your liking.
Stovetop method: place the leftover apple crisp in a saucepan over low-medium heat. Stir gently and continuously to prevent burning. Heat for 5-10 minutes or until the apples are warm and the topping is slightly crispy. You may need to add a splash of water or apple juice to prevent the crisp from drying out.
Air fryer method: preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place a portion of the apple crisp in the air fryer basket and heat for 3-5 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through. This method is perfect for quickly reheating individual portions while maintaining a crispy topping.
Slow cooker method: if you have a large amount of leftover apple crisp, you can reheat it in your slow cooker. Place the crisp in the slow cooker, cover it, and heat on low for 1-2 hours or until warmed through. This method is ideal for keeping the apple crisp warm for an extended period, perfect for potlucks or gatherings.
Interesting Trivia About Slow Cooker Apple Crisp
Slow cooker apple crisp is a delicious dessert that can be easily prepared in a slow cooker. It's a great way to enjoy the flavors of apple crisp without having to use the oven.
Is Making Apple Crisp in a Slow Cooker Cost-Effective?
This slow cooker apple crisp recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Apples, oats, and cinnamon are affordable, and the recipe yields a large portion. The warm, comforting dessert is perfect for family gatherings or weeknight treats. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10. Overall Verdict: 9/10.
Is Slow Cooker Apple Crisp Healthy or Unhealthy?
This slow cooker apple crisp recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the indulgent side rather than being a healthy choice. The generous use of brown sugar and butter in both the apple mixture and the crumble topping contributes to the dish's high calorie and sugar content. Additionally, the recipe relies on all-purpose flour, which lacks the nutritional benefits of whole grain alternatives.
However, with a few tweaks, this apple crisp can be transformed into a healthier treat without compromising on flavor:
- Reduce the amount of brown sugar in both the apple mixture and the crumble topping, or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
- Swap out the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour, almond flour, or oat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
- Use coconut oil instead of butter in the crumble topping for a healthier fat source
- Increase the proportion of oats and almonds in the crumble to boost the protein and fiber content while reducing the overall sugar and flour
- Serve the apple crisp with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of vanilla ice cream for a protein-rich, lower-calorie alternative
Editor's Take: My Honest Opinion on This Slow Cooker Apple Crisp
The slow cooker apple crisp recipe is a delightful and comforting dessert. The combination of tender apples, warm cinnamon, and crunchy oat crumble creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a delicious and aromatic dessert. The addition of vanilla ice cream and warm caramel sauce takes this apple crisp to the next level, making it a truly indulgent treat. This recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the classic flavors of apple crisp with minimal effort, and it's sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Enhance Your Slow Cooker Apple Crisp Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Dessert Recipes to Try If You Love This Apple Crisp
Appetizer and Entrée Ideas to Round Out Your Apple Crisp Meal
Why trust this Slow Cooker Apple Crisp Recipe:
This slow cooker apple crisp recipe is a must-try for all apple lovers. The combination of cinnamon and brown sugar adds a warm and cozy flavor to the dish. The cinnamon oat crumble topping provides a delightful crunch, while the sliced almonds add a nutty richness. The slow cooker method ensures that the apples are perfectly tender and infused with all the delicious flavors. Plus, serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of warm caramel sauce takes this dessert to the next level. Trust me, this recipe will become a family favorite!
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