Introduction
As the leaves transform into vibrant shades of orange and gold, the comforting aromas of autumn begin to fill our homes. One of my favorite seasonal treats is the classic apple crisp—warm, sweet, and with just the right amount of cinnamon to evoke that cozy feeling of fall. But let’s be real: sometimes the last thing we want is to spend a whole afternoon slaving away in the kitchen. That’s where the magic of the slow cooker comes in!
This Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Crisp recipe is the perfect solution for those chilly autumn evenings when you want to enjoy a homemade dessert without all the fuss. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a delectable crisp that is both effortless and satisfying. Imagine coming home from a brisk walk on a cool day to the sweet scent of bubbling apples infused with warm cinnamon—heavenly, right?
Not only does this recipe save you from the hassle of traditional baking, but it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a dessert that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat, and you’ve got the perfect way to celebrate the season.
So grab your slow cooker and let’s dive into this easy, delicious recipe that will soon become a staple in your fall dessert repertoire!
Ingredients
- 6 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (for serving, optional)
Instructions
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- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss the ingredients to thoroughly coat the apples and set aside.
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- In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, melted butter, chopped nuts (if opting in), and salt until the mixture has a crumbly texture.
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- Evenly layer the apple mixture at the bottom of your slow cooker.
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- Generously sprinkle the oat topping over the apple layer, ensuring the apples are completely covered.
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- Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the apples are tender and the topping is golden and crisp.
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- After cooking, turn off the slow cooker and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes to set.
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- Serve while warm, adorned with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 4-6 hrs | Servings: 8
Key Ingredients
- Apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples (like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp) for a balanced flavor. About 6 cups, peeled, cored, and sliced.
- Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup, packed, for sweetness and depth.
- Ground Cinnamon: 1-2 teaspoons, depending on your preference, to infuse warmth and spice.
- Oats: 1 cup, old-fashioned rolled oats for a chewy texture in the crisp topping.
- All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup, to help bind the topping together.
- Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), melted, for richness and to crisp up the topping.
- Nuts: 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) for added crunch.
- Salt: A pinch to enhance the flavors.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon, to elevate the overall flavor profile.
This combination of ingredients creates a comforting dessert that’s perfect for cozy autumn evenings!
Baking Process
Creating a scrumptious Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Crisp is a breeze, perfect for those cozy autumn afternoons. Follow these steps to infuse your kitchen with delightful aromas while preparing an effortless dessert that will warm hearts and evoke nostalgia.
Ingredients Preparation
- Prepare the Apples:
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Begin by washing, peeling, and slicing about 6-8 medium-sized apples. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix of tart and sweet varieties work wonderfully. Remove any seeds and slice them into even pieces for uniform cooking.
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Toss with Flavor:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg (if desired), and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Toss everything gently until the apples are well coated and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Crisp Topping Assembly
- Mix the Crisp Topping:
- In another bowl, combine 1 cup of rolled oats, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix these ingredients together thoroughly.
- Add 1/2 cup of cold butter, cut into small cubes. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The texture should be crumbly, allowing for a perfect crisp top.
Slow Cooking
- Layering in the Slow Cooker:
- Grease the bottom and sides of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a bit of butter to prevent sticking. Start layering by placing the apple mixture at the bottom, spreading it out evenly.
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Next, sprinkle the crisp topping generously over the apples, ensuring an even distribution for that perfect golden crust.
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Cooking:
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The apples should become tender, and the topping will take on a delightful golden brown hue.
Serving Suggestions
- Finishing Touches:
- Once cooked, keep the lid on for an additional 30 minutes to allow the crumble to set. Serve warm, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delicious contrast to the warm spices.
Enjoy!
As you dive into this easy Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Crisp, remember that the combination of tender apples and a crispy topping is pure autumn bliss. Enjoy every spoonful and share this comforting delicacy with family and friends to celebrate the season!
Serving Suggestions
To truly enjoy your Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Crisp, consider these delightful serving suggestions:
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Warm with Ice Cream: Serve the warm apple crisp directly from the slow cooker topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or caramel swirl for a comforting contrast of hot and cold.
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Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the crisp before serving.
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Whipped Cream Finish: Lightly whipped cream or dollops of freshly whipped crème fraîche add a creamy touch that balances the sweetness of the apples.
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Greek Yogurt Twist: For a healthier option, serve with a spoonful of Greek yogurt. Its tanginess complements the sweetness of the crisp wonderfully.
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With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a warm serving of apple crisp alongside a cup of your favorite fall brew—whether it’s spiced chai, pumpkin spice latte, or a rich coffee.
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Breakfast Treat: Leftovers can make a delicious breakfast. Serve warmed with a sprinkle of nuts or a dollop of yogurt for a nutritious start to your day.
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Layered Parfaits: Create fun apple crisp parfaits by layering the crisp with yogurt, granola, and additional apple slices in a jar for a portable treat.
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Mix with Other Fruits: Try mixing in other cooked fruits, like pears or berries, for a mixed fruit crisp that adds more complexity and flavor.
With these serving suggestions, you’re sure to create a delightful fall experience that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends! Enjoy your cozy moments filled with delicious autumn flavors!
Conclusion
Indulging in the cozy flavors of fall has never been easier than with this Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Crisp. With minimal prep time and the magic of slow cooking, you can transform simple ingredients into a warm, delicious dessert that fills your home with the inviting aroma of baked apples and cinnamon. Whether enjoyed on its own, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or paired with a dollop of whipped cream, this dessert embodies the essence of autumn and is a perfect way to celebrate the season.
As the leaves change and the days grow cooler, gather your loved ones, serve up generous portions of this delightful crisp, and savor the moments spent together. So set your slow cooker, and let it do the work while you kick back and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Happy cooking!
