This Crockpot Apple Crisp is like a warm hug in a bowl! With sweet, spiced apples under a crunchy topping, it’s perfect for dessert or even breakfast if you’re feeling cheeky.
I love how my house smells like fall while it cooks. Serve it with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat—trust me, it’s the cherry on top! 🍏🍨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith apples are great for tartness. You can also mix them with Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness. If you have other apples on hand, like Pink Lady or Gala, they’ll work fine too!
Granulated and Brown Sugar: The combo creates a balanced sweetness. If you want to reduce sugar, try using maple syrup or honey instead, adjusting quantities to taste.
Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These spices bring warmth to the dish. If you don’t have nutmeg, you can use all cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for a twist.
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: They give a nice texture to the topping. Quick oats can substitute in a pinch, but I prefer the chewiness of rolled oats.
Butter: Unsalted is best, but you can use coconut oil or a buttery spread if you’re looking for dairy-free options.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crisp Topping?
The key to a crunchy topping lies in how you mix the ingredients. Start by combining the dry ingredients first, then cut in your cold butter. Don’t overmix; you want clumps for that crispy texture.
- Use a pastry cutter, two forks, or even your hands to mix the butter until you see pea-sized clumps.
- Don’t forget to sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples to ensure all parts cook well.
For an extra crunch, you can add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the topping mixture. Enjoy the process, and it will turn out delicious every time!
Crockpot Apple Crisp Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 6 cups apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 6 medium apples, Granny Smith or a mix of tart and sweet)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
- 1/4 tsp salt
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot Apple Crisp will take about 15 minutes to prepare. Then, you’ll let it cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. Perfect for a cozy afternoon or to enjoy while you lounge around the house!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Toss until all the apple slices are well coated. Once mixed, transfer this yummy mixture into the bottom of your crockpot.
2. Make the Crisp Topping:
In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup brown sugar, and salt. Mix well to combine all the dry ingredients. Next, add the cold, cubed butter into this mixture. Using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingertips, blend the butter until it resembles coarse crumbs, with some larger clumps for that perfect crisp topping.
3. Assemble the Dish:
Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the apple mixture in the crockpot. Make sure to cover all the apples so they get that lovely crumb topping as they cook.
4. Cook It Up:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 3 to 4 hours. It’s ready when the apples are tender and the topping looks golden and crispy. You can check back to enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When it’s done cooking, carefully scoop portions into serving bowls. For an extra treat, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream! Serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavors of this cozy dessert with family and friends.
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith is great for a tart flavor, you can use a mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for added complexity. Feel free to experiment with whatever apples you have on hand!
What if I Don’t Have Rolled Oats?
If you don’t have rolled oats, you can use quick oats, but the texture may be slightly different. If you have granola, that can also work as a topping for an interesting twist!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the apple filling and the topping separately a day in advance and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just layer them into the crockpot and cook as directed!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in a preheated oven until heated through. It’s great to enjoy later!