Crock pot apple crisp

When I think of cozy fall desserts, the first thing that comes to mind is apple crisp.

There’s just something about tender, spiced apples topped with a golden, buttery oat crumble that makes me feel right at home.

But instead of baking it in the oven, I’ve started making crock pot apple crisp, and let me tell you—it’s a total game changer.

Not only does it free up oven space, but it also fills my kitchen with the most amazing aroma while it cooks low and slow.

Plus, I can prepare it ahead of time, let the crock pot do its magic, and still end up with a warm, comforting dessert ready to serve.

Why I Love Crock Pot Apple Crisp

I love using my slow cooker because it takes the pressure off when I’m hosting or juggling a busy day.

With this recipe, I can peel and slice the apples, toss them with cinnamon and sugar, layer them in the crock pot, and then just let it cook.

A few hours later, I lift the lid and my house smells like pure autumn bliss.

The texture is slightly different from oven-baked apple crisp—the topping doesn’t get quite as crunchy, but it’s still buttery, sweet, and absolutely delicious.

I’ve found that if I leave the lid slightly ajar during the last 30 minutes, it helps the topping crisp up a bit more.

Crock Pot Apple Crisp

This crock pot apple crisp is a warm, comforting dessert made with tender spiced apples and a buttery oat topping, all cooked low and slow in the slow cooker

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 3 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 6 cups apples peeled, cored, and sliced – I like Granny Smith + Honeycrisp
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

For the Topping:

• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter cubed
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Method

 

1. Peel, core, and slice the apples. Place them in a large bowl and toss with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
2. Spread the apple mixture evenly in the bottom of the crock pot.
3. 
4. In a separate bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter with a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Stir in nuts if using.
   
5. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples.
6. Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or high for 2 hours, until apples are tender and bubbly.
7. For a slightly crispier topping, prop the lid open slightly during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
8. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Tips That Work for Me

Don’t overcook the apples. They’ll turn mushy if left too long, so I keep a close eye after the 2-hour mark.

Use firm apples. Softer apples break down too much in the crock pot, so I stick with tart and crisp varieties.

Double the topping if you love extra crunch. I sometimes do this because in my house, the topping disappears first,

Amazon product suggestions

• Crock Pot Slow Cooker – A dependable 6-quart slow cooker is perfect for making apple crisp, soups, and family meals.

• Apple Peeler, Corer & Slicer – This handy tool saves tons of prep time and makes peeling and slicing apples effortless.

• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats – A pantry staple for crisps, granola, and baking that ensures the perfect crumble topping.

Final Thoughts

Making crock pot apple crisp has become one of my go-to fall traditions. It’s simple, comforting, and perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Every time I scoop into the warm apples and that golden crumble, I’m reminded why I love slow cooker desserts so much—they’re easy, delicious, and always crowd-pleasers.

If you’ve never tried apple crisp in the crock pot, I promise it’s worth it. Your home will smell incredible, and your taste buds will thank you.

FAQs about Crock Pot Apple Crisp

1. Can I make crock pot apple crisp ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the apples and topping separately, then store them in the fridge. When you’re ready, layer everything in the crock pot and cook.

2. How do I keep the topping crispy in the slow cooker?
Since crock pots trap steam, the topping won’t get as crispy as in the oven. To help, prop the lid open slightly during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

3. What are the best apples for apple crisp?
I like using a mix of tart and sweet apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. This gives the dessert a balanced flavor and prevents it from turning too mushy.

4. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, but make sure your crock pot is large enough (6–7 quarts). You may need to add extra cooking time for the apples to soften fully.

5. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover apple crisp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave, or in the oven if you want to re-crisp the topping.

6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the flour in the topping for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, and make sure your oats are certified gluten-free.