Craving a warm dessert that’s easy to make? Look no further! My Slow Cooker Butterscotch Apple Crisp is a sweet dream come true. This cozy treat combines tender apples, crunchy topping, and rich butterscotch flavor. Best of all, it cooks slowly in your kitchen, filling your home with a delightful aroma. Join me as I share simple ingredients, handy tips, and step-by-step instructions to create this scrumptious dessert!

Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 6 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup butterscotch chips
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– Vanilla ice cream, for serving
Ingredient Substitutes
You can swap apples for any firm variety. Try Fuji or Braeburn for a sweeter touch. Use coconut sugar if you want a less processed sweetener. For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend. If you want a nut-free version, you can skip the pecans. You can also use chocolate chips instead of butterscotch chips for a fun twist.
Nutritional Information
This recipe serves 6-8 people. Each serving contains about 350 calories. It has around 14 grams of fat and 52 grams of carbs. The fiber content is about 3 grams, which adds a bit of health. If you add vanilla ice cream, remember that adds extra calories and sugar. You can reduce calories by cutting back on sugar or using less butter.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Apples
First, pick 6 medium apples. I love using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They add a nice tartness. Peel, core, and slice the apples. In a large bowl, mix the sliced apples with half a cup of brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss well until all apples are coated. Let them sit for a bit. This helps the flavors blend and the apples soften.
Making the Crumb Topping
In another bowl, gather your dry ingredients: ½ cup of brown sugar, 1 cup of rolled oats, and 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Pour in ½ cup of melted unsalted butter. Mix until it looks crumbly. This topping is key for that perfect crisp. For a fun twist, stir in butterscotch chips and, if you like, some chopped pecans. They add a nice crunch.
Cooking Process in the Slow Cooker
Now, layer the apple mixture into the bottom of your slow cooker. Spread it out evenly for the best results. Next, sprinkle the crumbly topping over the apples. Make sure to cover them fully. This will create a nice crust. Put the lid on the slow cooker and set it to low. Cook for 4 to 5 hours. Check for tenderness in the apples and a golden topping. When done, remove the lid and let it sit for about 15 minutes. This helps it firm up before serving. Enjoy your warm treat with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top!
Tips & Tricks
Best Apples for Crisp
For the best slow cooker butterscotch apple crisp, choose the right apples. I recommend Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples have a nice balance of sweet and tart flavors. They also hold up well during cooking. Other good options include Fuji and Braeburn. Just avoid soft apples like Red Delicious. Their texture won’t give you that perfect crisp.
Ensuring a Perfectly Crispy Topping
To get a crispy topping, use rolled oats and all-purpose flour. Mix them well with melted butter. This creates a crumbly texture that bakes nicely. Ensure you cover your apples evenly with the topping. If you want an extra crunch, add chopped pecans. They add flavor and texture. Just remember to watch your cooking time. If you overcook it, the topping can get soggy.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serve your butterscotch apple crisp warm in bowls. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top makes it special. You can drizzle extra butterscotch sauce for added sweetness. For a fun twist, try serving it with caramel sauce. Pairing it with a cup of warm cider is also delightful. Enjoy this cozy dessert with family and friends!
Variations
Healthier Alternatives
You can make this butterscotch apple crisp a bit healthier. Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar. It has a similar taste but fewer calories. Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This adds fiber to your dish. You can also replace butter with coconut oil. This change gives it a nice flavor and makes it dairy-free.
Seasonal Fruit Swaps
While apples shine in this recipe, you can try other fruits. Pears can add a juicy twist. You might also enjoy peaches or plums in summer. In fall, consider adding cranberries for a tart kick. Just remember to adjust the sugar if you use tart fruits. This keeps the balance of sweetness just right.
Different Topping Ideas
The crumb topping is where you can get creative. Instead of oats, you can use crushed nuts for a nutty crunch. Almond flour is a great gluten-free option too. For a fun twist, sprinkle some chocolate chips on top. You could even add spices like ginger or cardamom for extra warmth. Don’t forget to add a drizzle of caramel for a sweet touch!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
After you enjoy your slow cooker butterscotch apple crisp, store leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the crisp fresh and tasty. Place it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your apple crisp, take it out of the fridge. You can use an oven or microwave. If you use an oven, preheat it to 350°F. Put the crisp in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. If you use a microwave, heat individual portions for 30 seconds to 1 minute until warm.
Freezing Options
You can freeze your apple crisp for up to three months. To freeze, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This helps prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the oven for the best taste. Enjoy it warm with vanilla ice cream!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can use different sugars. White sugar works, but it will change the flavor. If you want a deeper taste, try using coconut sugar or maple sugar. Both options will add a nice twist to the apple crisp.
How do I know when the apple crisp is done?
Check the apples for tenderness and the topping for a golden color. The crisp cooks for 4-5 hours on low. You can poke an apple slice with a fork. If it goes in easily, the crisp is ready. Let it sit for about 15 minutes before serving.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can bake it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Layer the apples in a baking dish and top with the crumb mixture. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown. Enjoy the same great taste!
In this blog post, we explored the key ingredients for a tasty apple crisp. We covered the best apples, how to make a crumb topping, and cooking in a slow cooker. Plus, I shared tips for crispy texture and serving ideas. Don’t forget the variations, like healthier swaps or different fruit. Finally, I outlined how to store and reheat your leftovers. With these steps, you can create a delicious dessert that everyone will love. So grab your ingredients and start cooking!
