Slow Cooker Crockpot Baked Apples

This Slow Cooker Crockpot Baked Apples recipe takes the classic baked apples to a new level of ease by utilizing the magic of a slow cooker. Tender, cinnamon-kissed apples, gently cooked to perfection, make for a side dish or dessert that’s not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare.

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Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply craving a comforting treat, these slow cooker apples are sure to become a seasonal favorite. Let your Crockpot do the work as you savor the essence of autumn in every blissful bite.

What Type of Apples to Use

You’ll want to choose apples that hold up well during cooking and offer a balanced flavor. Generally, apples that are slightly tart and firm work best for cooking as they won’t turn mushy quickly. Here are some options:

• Granny Smith: These are known for their tartness and firm texture. They hold their shape well and provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the dish.
• Honeycrisp: Honeycrisp are crisp and juicy, with a nice balance of sweet and tart flavors. They can add a pleasant texture.
• Golden Delicious: These are sweet with a mild flavor and a slightly softer texture.
• Jonagold: Jonagold apples offer a blend of sweetness and tartness. They’re firm enough to withstand cooking and can contribute to a well-rounded flavor profile.
• Fuji: Fuji apples are sweet and crisp, but they can soften more quickly during cooking. While they might not retain their shape as well as other varieties, they can still be used if you prefer a softer texture.

Spices

• Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a classic spice that pairs perfectly with apples. Its warm and sweet flavor complements the natural sweetness of the fruit.
• Nutmeg: Nutmeg adds a slightly nutty and earthy flavor that works well with the sweetness of the apples. A little goes a long way, so use it sparingly.

Peeling the Apples

I prefer to peel the apples beforehand. The apple peel can add a slightly chewy texture to the dish. If you prefer a smoother texture, you might want to peel the apples. Peeled apples are also usually more visually appealing.

If you want to keep the peels on, it’s totally fine. A significant amount of the nutrients and fiber in apples are found in the peel. If you’re aiming to maximize the nutritional content of your dish, leaving the peel on can be beneficial.

How to Peel and Core the Apples

1. Hold the apple firmly in one hand.
2. With the other hand, use a vegetable peeler to start peeling the skin away from the top of the apple, moving in a downward motion. Rotate the apple as you go to remove the skin in a spiral fashion.
3. Continue peeling until all the skin is removed. Try to remove as little of the flesh as possible while taking off the skin.
4. If you don’t have an apple corer, you can use a knife to core the apple.
5. Place the apple on a cutting board horizontally.
6. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut a circular incision around the stem, creating a guide for coring.
7. Then, make downward angled cuts on all four sides of the apple around the core, creating a square shape. Cut just deep enough to remove the core and seeds while keeping as much of the usable flesh as possible.

How to Make Slow Cooker Crockpot Baked Apples

Detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

1. Add apples, sweetener, cinnamon, nutmeg, butter, lemon juice, and cornstarch to a slow cooker.
2. Stir.
3. Slow cook.

Cook Time/How Long to Cook

Cook on High for 1 1/2 -3 hours or on Low for 4-6 hours. Halfway through the cooking process, open the pot and stir the mixture.

Substitutions and Optional Add Ins

• Allspice: Has a unique flavor that combines hints of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. It can add depth to the flavor profile of the fried apples.
• Cloves: Provide a strong, aromatic flavor with a touch of warmth. Use them sparingly as they can be quite potent.
• Vanilla: Vanilla extract or vanilla bean can add a subtle, sweet undertone.
• Maple Syrup: Adds a rich and distinct sweetness with subtle earthy undertones.
• Lemon Zest: Adds a bright, citrusy note that can balance the sweetness and add a refreshing twist.
• Ginger: Ground ginger or freshly grated ginger can add a slightly spicy and warming flavor that complements the apples well.
• Cardamom: Has a unique, aromatic flavor that can add complexity and depth to the dish.
• Orange Zest: Can provide a citrusy aroma and a touch of brightness to the fried apples.

How to Store

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge tightly covered and sealed for 3-4 days.

How to Reheat

You can reheat these in the microwave, on the stove, or in the slow cooker until warm.

Freezer Tips

You can freeze leftovers tightly covered and sealed for 6-8 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge.

Pair With These Recipes

Soul Food Pork Chops
Dry Rub Chicken Wings
Steamed Lobster Tail
How to Make Cocktail Shrimp

More Apple Recipes

Caramel Apple Cider
Sugar Free Apple Pie
Sugar Free Apple Butter
Sugar Free Apple Crisp
Slow Cooker Crockpot Apple Oatmeal
Cranberry Sauce with Apples
Slow Cooker Crockpot Apple Crisp