Dessert

Slow Cooker Apple Crisp Recipe

Bylina moretti August 12, 2026August 12, 2026

Introduction

Slow Cooker Apple Crisp is a comforting, easy-to-make dessert perfect for any season. Tender apples are spiced and topped with a buttery oat crumble, all cooked low and slow for a delightfully warm treat. Serve it with ice cream for a classic, cozy finish.

The image shows a white bowl with a light brown rim, filled with apple crisp. The bottom layer inside the bowl consists of cooked apple slices in a thick, shiny brown syrup, soft and glazed. On top of this, there is a crumbly oat topping with visible clusters of golden-brown oats and small pieces of nuts or cinnamon, adding a rough texture. A fork with a wooden handle rests inside the bowl on the right side, touching the apple slices. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a red, white, and green checkered cloth partially visible at the bottom. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 small to medium apples (peeled, cut into 1/2-inch slices, about 6 cups)
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cold butter (cut into 8 pieces)
Ice cream for serving (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning. Sprinkle the granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, and cinnamon over the apples, stirring until they are evenly coated.
Step 2: Spray a 4- to 5-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. Transfer the apple mixture into the slow cooker and spread it out evenly.
Step 3: In another large bowl, combine 1/2 cup flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt. Use a fork or pastry blender to cut the cold butter into the mixture until it becomes crumbly. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the apples in the slow cooker.
Step 4: Place a dish towel or a few paper towels over the slow cooker, then cover with the lid. This helps absorb condensation and keeps the topping crisp.
Step 5: Cook on high for 2 to 3 hours, or on low for 5 to 6 hours, until the apples are soft and cooked through. Remove the lid and towel, then let the crisp cool for 30 minutes before serving.
Step 6: Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream for a classic touch.

Tips & Variations

Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a more complex flavor.
For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the topping for extra crunch.
The dish towel trick helps prevent sogginess—don’t skip it!

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave until warm. The crisp topping may lose some crunch after reheating but will still taste delicious.

How to Serve

A white bowl contains a warm serving of apple crisp, with two visible layers: the bottom layer is soft apple slices coated in a shiny, cinnamon-brown syrup, and the top layer is a golden oat crumble with chunks adding texture. A silver fork with a wooden handle rests on the right side inside the bowl, slightly dipped into the apple crisp. The bowl sits on a surface with a white marbled texture, and a red checkered cloth is partially seen at the bottom left. Nearby are a fresh red apple on the left and an empty fluted glass container at the top left. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?

Frozen apples can be used, but they may release more moisture, resulting in a softer topping. Thaw and drain excess liquid before assembling to reduce sogginess.