Baked Apples in Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy Dessert Delight

There’s something incredibly comforting about baked apples—a warm, fragrant, and naturally sweet dessert that feels like a hug from the inside. Imagine tender apples infused with cinnamon, brown sugar, and a touch of butter, slowly cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.

This method is effortless, hands-off, and delivers perfectly soft apples with minimal fuss. Whether you’re a busy parent, a novice cook, or someone who loves cozy seasonal treats, this baked apples in slow cooker recipe is your new go-to dessert.

Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the apples become melt-in-your-mouth soft without turning to mush. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to many desserts since it uses natural sweetness and minimal added sugar.

You can serve these baked apples as a wholesome snack, a light dessert, or even a breakfast treat with yogurt or oatmeal. Ready to discover how simple and delicious slow cooker baked apples can be?

Let’s dive right in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow cooker baked apples recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, combining ease, flavor, and nutrition in one delightful dish. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your recipe collection:

• Hands-off cooking: Just prep and let your slow cooker work its magic while you go about your day.
• Perfect texture: Apples become tender but keep their shape, providing a lovely bite.
• Natural sweetness: Uses brown sugar and cinnamon for that classic warm flavor without overpowering sweetness.
• Versatile: Great for dessert, snack, or breakfast additions like oatmeal or yogurt.
• Customizable: Easily adapt with nuts, dried fruits, or even a drizzle of caramel or vegan cream.

Ingredients

• 6 large apples (such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith)
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• ¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces (or vegan butter)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup apple cider or water
• Juice of half a lemon
• Pinch of salt

Equipment

• Slow cooker (4 to 6-quart size works best)
• Paring knife for coring apples
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl for combining filling ingredients
• Spoon or small spatula for filling apples
• Serving dish or plates

Instructions

1. Prepare the apples: Wash and dry the apples. Using a paring knife, carefully core each apple, creating a hollow center but leaving the bottom intact to hold the filling.
2. Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, chopped nuts, dried fruits, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of spices and nuts.
3. Fill the apples: Spoon the filling mixture into the hollow centers of each apple. Pack it gently but firmly so the apples are well stuffed.
4. Add butter and flavor: Place small pieces of butter on top of the filling inside each apple. Drizzle the vanilla extract and lemon juice over the apples for a bright, fresh flavor.
5. Arrange in slow cooker: Pour the apple cider (or water) into the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the stuffed apples upright inside the slow cooker. The liquid will create steam to cook the apples evenly.
6. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours, or until apples are tender when pierced with a fork. Avoid overcooking to prevent mushy apples.
7. Serve warm: Carefully remove the apples with a slotted spoon and transfer to serving plates. Spoon some of the warm cooking liquid over the apples for extra moisture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.

If you prefer a crunchier topping, add a sprinkle of oats mixed with brown sugar and nuts before cooking.

Mix in chopped dried apricots or figs for a unique twist on the dried fruit filling.

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of maple syrup for a decadent dessert treat.

Try adding a splash of bourbon or brandy to the cooking liquid for an adult-friendly dessert.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Slow cooker baked apples are wonderfully versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy them:

• As a warm dessert: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a classic treat.
• Breakfast boost: Chop baked apples and stir into oatmeal, yogurt, or granola bowls.
• Snack time: Enjoy on their own for a naturally sweet and satisfying afternoon snack.
• With savory pairings: Try alongside roasted pork or poultry to add a sweet contrast.
• Drizzle with sauce: Enhance with caramel sauce, maple syrup, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.

Conclusion

Baked apples in the slow cooker offer an effortless yet deeply satisfying way to enjoy a classic dessert with minimal preparation. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness and aromatic spices that make baked apples a timeless favorite.

The slow cooker’s gentle heat ensures each bite is tender and infused with flavor, making it perfect for cozy nights or festive occasions.

Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is flexible and forgiving. You can customize the filling to your taste, substitute ingredients for dietary needs, and pair it with many dishes to create memorable meals.

For more easy and delicious slow cooker ideas, check out our Best Vegan Slowcooker Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals or explore wholesome meal options like Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping and Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.

Give this baked apples slow cooker recipe a try and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of autumn anytime you want. Happy cooking!

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