Slow Cooker Apple Crisp

Get ready for the easiest fall dessert ever — tender cinnamon-spiced apples topped with a buttery, golden oat crumble. This Slow Cooker Apple Crisp is everything you love about classic apple pie without the fuss of baking.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Apple Crisp is pure comfort in every bite. Fresh apples slowly cook down into a luscious, cinnamon-scented filling while the buttery oat topping turns golden and crisp. It’s sweet, warm, and nostalgic — like a cozy hug on a chilly evening. The best part? The slow cooker does all the work for you. Just set it, forget it, and enjoy your home filling up with the smell of fall spices.

Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight desserts, this recipe is simple enough for beginners but delicious enough to impress.

Tools You’ll Need

• 5–6 quart slow cooker

• Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)

• Knife and peeler

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients

• 6 medium apples, peeled and sliced

• 1 cup old-fashioned oats

• 1 cup brown sugar, divided

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup melted butter

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional for serving:

• Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel drizzle

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and slice the apples evenly. In a large bowl, toss them with cinnamon, nutmeg, and 2–3 tablespoons of brown sugar. Spread the seasoned apples evenly in the bottom of your slow cooker.

2. Make the Crisp Topping

In a separate bowl, combine oats, flour, remaining brown sugar, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly and well combined.

3. Assemble and Cook

Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the apples. Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 5–6 hours, until the apples are soft and bubbling and the topping is golden brown.

4. Serve Warm

Spoon the apple crisp into bowls and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for the ultimate comfort dessert.

Pro Tips for Success

• Choose the right apples: A mix of sweet and tart apples — like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji — gives the best balance of flavor.

• Keep the topping crisp: Place a paper towel under the slow cooker lid while cooking to absorb steam and prevent sogginess.

• Add a crunch: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts into the oat mixture before cooking for extra texture.

• Flavor upgrade: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a splash of maple syrup for deeper sweetness.

Customization Ideas

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free oats and almond flour instead of regular flour.

• Vegan: Swap butter for coconut oil or plant-based margarine.

• Berry Twist: Add 1 cup of blueberries or raspberries for a fruity variation.

• Caramel Apple: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples before adding the topping for a richer flavor.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave for 30–45 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes to re-crisp the topping.

Approximate Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 320

• Fat: 12g

• Carbohydrates: 52g

• Protein: 3g

• Fiber: 4g

(Nutrition may vary based on apple type, butter used, and toppings.)

Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 3–6 hours

• Total Time: 3–6 hours

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant oats instead of old-fashioned?
Old-fashioned oats work best — instant oats tend to get mushy during slow cooking.

Can I leave the peel on the apples?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly chewier. For a classic, tender filling, peeling is recommended.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a larger slow cooker (7–8 quart) and extend the cooking time by about 30–45 minutes.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the apples and topping separately, refrigerate overnight, and assemble just before cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Apple Crisp is everything you want in a dessert — warm, buttery, sweet, and spiced just right. It’s comfort food at its finest, and the simplicity of the slow cooker makes it almost effortless. Serve it at gatherings, holidays, or quiet nights at home — one spoonful, and it’s guaranteed to be a total smash.