This Crockpot Apple Crisp is a cozy dessert that combines tender apples with a crunchy topping of oats and brown sugar. It’s warm, sweet, and perfect for chilly evenings!
Honestly, the smell while it’s cooking makes it hard to wait. It’s like a hug in a bowl! I love serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top—it’s just heavenly!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are fantastic options for a bright, tart flavor. If you prefer sweeter apples, try Fuji or Gala. Remember to mix varieties for depth of flavor!
Lemon Juice: Almond or orange juice can replace lemon juice if needed. Both add a nice acidity to brighten the apple flavor.
Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats work best here. If you’re gluten-free, look for certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats can be used too, but they won’t give the same texture.
Butter: Coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute can replace unsalted butter for a dairy-free option without sacrificing flavor.
How to Get The Best Topping for Your Apple Crisp?
The oat topping is crucial for that perfect crunch! Here are a few tips:
- Mix the oats, flour, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly. Make sure it’s not too wet; it should hold together but still be crumbly.
- Don’t skip the butter; it helps crisp up the topping. If you want a lighter version, use less butter or try a butter substitute spread.
- Spread the topping evenly, allowing some clumps to form. They’ll turn into delightful crispy bits as it cooks.
Patience is key! Let it cook long enough for the apples to soften and the topping to get that lovely golden color. Enjoy your delicious dessert!
How to Make Crockpot Apple Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 6 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (about 6 medium apples, e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed (for topping)
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Serving (Optional):
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
- Caramel sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot Apple Crisp takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then needs to cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. It’s simple to throw together and lets your crockpot do all the work while you relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
Start by greasing the inside of your crockpot lightly with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
2. Toss the Apples:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, 1/2 cup brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure all the apple slices are well coated in this sweet mixture.
3. Fill the Crockpot:
Transfer the apple mixture into the greased crockpot, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
4. Make the Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir well until everything is crumbly and well combined.
5. Layer the Topping:
Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples in the crockpot. Don’t worry if it looks a little lumpy; that will make it extra crunchy!
6. Cook and Relax:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. The apples should be tender, and the topping should be golden and crisp when it’s done. You can enjoy the wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen during cooking!
7. Let it Rest:
Once it’s cooked, carefully remove the lid (watch out for steam!). Let the Apple Crisp sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before serving.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up the warm Apple Crisp in bowls and top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce if you’re feeling indulgent. Enjoy your comforting and delicious dessert!
Can I Use Other Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices, you can also use Fuji, Gala, or a mix of different types for a more complex flavor. Just make sure to peel and core them before slicing.
Can I Make This Apple Crisp Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the apple filling and topping separately, then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply assemble it in the crockpot and follow the cooking instructions.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Apple Crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also enjoy it cold!
Can I Substitute the Sugar?
Yes! You can substitute with coconut sugar, maple syrup, or a sugar alternative like erythritol or stevia. Just keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary, so adjust to taste! If using liquid sweeteners, you may need to reduce the liquid in the recipe slightly.