The season of fall brings a sense of warmth, comfort, and, of course, indulgent desserts. One recipe that epitomizes this season is Slow Cooker Apple Crisp with Oat Streusel. This dessert combines the rich flavors of tender, caramelized apples with a crispy, golden oat topping. It’s the ultimate fall comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for serving at family gatherings, holiday dinners, or just because you crave something sweet and cozy. And the best part? You can make it with minimal effort in your slow cooker, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy the flavors. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and explore how to make it from scratch.
What is Slow Cooker Apple Crisp with Oat Streusel?
Slow Cooker Apple Crisp with Oat Streusel is a warm, comforting dessert that consists of tender apples coated in a sweet and spiced filling, topped with a crunchy oat streusel. Unlike traditional apple pies, this dessert doesn’t require a crust, making it much easier to prepare while still delivering all the delicious flavors you love. The slow cooker does all the work for you, slowly transforming the apples into a tender, caramelized filling while the oat streusel topping crisps up beautifully.
This dessert is perfect when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, this apple crisp is sure to satisfy your cravings for something sweet and comforting.
The Origin of Apple Crisp
Apple crisp is a classic dessert that dates back to the early 1900s in the United States. It’s believed that the recipe was created as an alternative to apple pie, offering a simpler and quicker way to make an apple-based dessert. The dish became especially popular during the fall harvest season when apples were abundant and easy to come by. Over the years, variations of the recipe have evolved, with many adding different spices, toppings, or even nuts to enhance the flavor.
The beauty of apple crisp lies in its versatility. It can be made with various types of apples, sweeteners, and toppings to suit any taste preference. Whether you prefer a traditional recipe or a modern twist, apple crisp remains a beloved dessert for fall and beyond.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Apple Crisp with Oat Streusel
Making this Slow Cooker Apple Crisp is simple and doesn’t require a long list of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6–7 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 6 cups). For the best flavor, use apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix of both.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice to add a touch of tartness and prevent the apples from browning.
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar for a deeper, richer flavor).
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for that warm, comforting spice.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg to complement the cinnamon and bring in that classic fall aroma.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for extra sweetness and fragrance.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch to help thicken the filling and give it a deliciously syrupy texture.
For the Oat Streusel Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats that will give the topping a hearty, chewy texture.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a slightly nuttier taste).
- ½ cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar if you prefer a more natural sweetener).
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon to match the flavor profile of the apple filling.
- ¼ teaspoon salt to balance the sweetness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted for that rich, buttery flavor that holds the topping together.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Apple Crisp with Oat Streusel
Follow these simple steps to prepare a comforting, homemade Apple Crisp with Oat Streusel in your slow cooker. It’s so easy to make, you’ll be enjoying the sweet aroma of cinnamon and baked apples in no time!
1. Prepare the Apples
Start by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples into even pieces. You can use a mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith for the best balance of flavors. In a large mixing bowl, combine the apple slices with lemon juice, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and cornstarch. Toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated.
Transfer this mixture into your slow cooker, making sure to spread it out in an even layer. The apples will soften and release their juices as they cook, forming a flavorful filling.
2. Make the Streusel Topping
In another bowl, mix together the old-fashioned oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Once the dry ingredients are well combined, pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly. The butter will help create a golden, crispy texture on top of the apples while cooking in the slow cooker.
3. Assemble the Crisp
Sprinkle the prepared oat streusel topping evenly over the apple filling in the slow cooker. Make sure it covers the apples completely for a uniform texture when it’s cooked.
4. Cook the Apple Crisp
Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 2½ to 3 hours or on LOW for 4 to 5 hours. The apples should be tender, and the topping should turn golden and crispy. Keep an eye on it as it cooks to ensure the apples don’t overcook and turn mushy.
5. Crisp up the Topping (Optional)
For an extra crispy top, you can remove the slow cooker’s lid and place the entire dish under your oven’s broiler for 2 to 4 minutes. Be sure to watch it carefully to avoid burning the topping!
6. Serve Warm
Spoon the warm apple crisp into bowls and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy the cozy, comforting flavors of fall.
Tips & Variations for Slow Cooker Apple Crisp
Here are a few tips and ideas to make this Apple Crisp with Oat Streusel even more customizable and delicious:
- Healthier Version: For a healthier twist, substitute maple syrup or honey for granulated sugar, and use coconut oil in place of butter. This will give your crisp a more natural sweetness and a subtle coconut flavor.
- Nutty Twist: If you love nuts, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel topping. This will add extra crunch and depth of flavor.
- Gluten-Free: To make this dessert gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour with almond flour and use gluten-free oats for the topping.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the apples and the streusel topping the night before. Just store them separately in the fridge, then assemble them in the morning for a quick and easy dessert when you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Slow Cooker Apple Crisp
1. Can I make this Apple Crisp in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
Yes! If you prefer to bake your apple crisp in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). After assembling the crisp, bake it in a greased baking dish for 45–50 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden and crisp.
2. What type of apples work best for Apple Crisp?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are ideal for this recipe. Granny Smith apples add a tartness that balances the sweetness of the sugar, while Honeycrisp apples are naturally sweet and juicy. You can also use a combination of both for a more complex flavor.
3. Can I use frozen apples?
While fresh apples work best for this recipe, you can use frozen apples if needed. However, frozen apples release more moisture, which might result in a slightly softer filling. Be sure to thaw and drain the apples before using them in the recipe.
4. Can I make this apple crisp in advance?
Yes, you can make the crisp ahead of time. Prepare it the day before, store it in the fridge, and then reheat it in the slow cooker for a few hours before serving.
Conclusion: Slow Cooker Apple Crisp
Slow Cooker Apple Crisp with Oat Streusel is a dessert that truly captures the essence of fall. With its warm, tender apples and golden, crunchy oat topping, it’s the perfect way to indulge in the cozy flavors of the season. Whether you make it for a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or a simple weeknight treat, this easy-to-make recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, with the convenience of the slow cooker, you can enjoy a delicious homemade dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
So, gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy the sweet, spiced goodness of Slow Cooker Apple Crisp with Oat Streusel — the ultimate fall comfort dessert that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth!
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Slow Cooker Apple Crisp with Oat Streusel: A Cozy Fall Dessert
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes – 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Slow Cooker Apple Crisp with Oat Streusel is a warm, comforting dessert that consists of tender apples coated in a sweet and spiced filling, topped with a crunchy oat streusel. Unlike traditional apple pies, this dessert doesn’t require a crust, making it much easier to prepare while still delivering all the delicious flavors you love. The slow cooker does all the work for you, slowly transforming the apples into a tender, caramelized filling while the oat streusel topping crisps up beautifully.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
6–7 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 6 cups)
(Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix work best)2 tablespoons lemon juice
⅓ cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar for a richer flavor)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the filling)
For the Oat Streusel Topping
1 cup old-fashioned oats
½ cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
½ cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Prepare the apples:
In a large bowl, toss apple slices with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and cornstarch until evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to your slow cooker (about 4–6 quart size).
Make the streusel topping:
In another bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
Pour in melted butter and stir until crumbly and well combined.
Assemble:
Sprinkle the oat streusel evenly over the apples in the slow cooker.
Cook:
Cover and cook on HIGH for 2½–3 hours or LOW for 4–5 hours, until apples are tender and the topping is golden and crisp around the edges.
Crisp up the topping (optional):
If you want a crispier top, uncover and place under the oven broiler for 2–4 minutes after cooking. Watch carefully so it doesn’t burn!
Serve warm:
Spoon into bowls and top with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Notes
This slow cooker apple crisp is warm, comforting, and perfect for cozy evenings. The oat streusel topping adds a satisfying crunch while the apples stay tender and sweet. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3–4 hours (on low)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooker / Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280 kcal
Keywords: Slow Cooker Apple Crisp
