Slow Cooker Cinnamon Apple Crisp
There’s nothing more comforting than the smell of cinnamon apples slowly cooking in a crockpot on a cold day. This slow cooker cinnamon apple crisp is the kind of old-fashioned dessert that makes a house feel warm and welcoming, even before you take the first bite. Inspired by classic Midwestern farm kitchens, this recipe delivers tender, spiced apples topped with a buttery oat crumble without ever turning on the oven.
Perfect for snow days, fall gatherings, or cozy weekends, this easy crockpot apple dessert lets you set everything up ahead of time and come home to a dessert that tastes like it baked all day. It’s simple, reliable, and made with pantry staples, making it a go-to recipe when you want homemade comfort with minimal effort.
Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a spoonful of yogurt for a lighter option. However you serve it, this crockpot apple crisp is guaranteed to disappear fast.
Servings: 6–8
Cook Time: 2–4 hours
Method: Crockpot / Slow Cooker
Ingredients:
Apple Filling
6–7 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Gala, or a mix), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker sauce)
Crisp Topping
3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Directions:
Lightly grease a 4–6 quart slow cooker with butter or nonstick spray.
In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with lemon juice, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), salt, vanilla, and cornstarch until evenly coated.
Spread the apple mixture evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker.
In another bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in melted butter until clumpy. Add nuts if using.
Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples.
HIGH: 2–2½ hours
LOW: 3½–4 hours
Cook until apples are fork-tender and bubbly.
For a drier topping, prop the lid open slightly for the last 20–30 minutes.
Let rest 10–15 minutes before serving warm.
Tips, Variations & Substitutions:
Best apples for apple crisp: A mix of tart and sweet apples gives the best texture and flavor.
Extra spice: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for deeper fall flavor.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free flour and certified gluten-free oats.
Nut-free: Simply omit the nuts and add a few extra tablespoons of oats.
Make-ahead friendly: Prep apples ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Easy slow cooker apple dessert
No oven required
Perfect for fall, winter, and holidays
Old-fashioned flavor with modern convenience
Ideal for potlucks, brunch, or weeknight treats
