Crock-Pot Baked Apples Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a cozy, luscious dessert that feels like a warm hug, look no further than these irresistibly tender, sweetly spiced Crock-Pot Baked Apples. This recipe transforms simple apples into a mouthwatering treat that’s bursting with buttery pecans, oats, and a comforting dash of cinnamon and ginger, all slow-cooked to perfection. The magic of the Crock-Pot Baked Apples lies in how effortlessly the slow cooker infuses every bite with rich flavors, making it perfect for a relaxed afternoon or a special gathering with loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a unique role in building the flavor, texture, and warmth of the dish. From the soft, melting butter that anchors the filling to the crunchy pecans adding delightful texture, every component turns these baked apples into something truly memorable.

• Butter (6 tbsp., softened): Provides a rich, creamy base that melds the filling ingredients together and adds indulgence.
• Chopped pecans (1/4 cup): Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with soft apples.
• Old-fashioned oats (1/4 cup): Gives the filling a hearty texture and soaks up the buttery, sugary juices.
• Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Adds natural sweetness and caramel notes that make the filling irresistible.
• Ground cinnamon (1 tsp.): Infuses the dish with warm spice that’s classic for baked fruits.
• Ground ginger (1/4 tsp.): Offers a gentle zing that brightens the overall spice profile with subtle heat.
• Pinch kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors in the filling.
• Apples (4): The star ingredient – firm apples that hold their shape yet become tender and juicy as they cook.
• Ice cream: A creamy, cold contrast that melts perfectly over hot baked apples.
• Caramel, warmed: Drizzled over the final dish to add gooey, buttery sweetness and a touch of elegance.

How to Make Crock-Pot Baked Apples

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Begin by mixing together the softened butter, chopped pecans, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, ground ginger, and a pinch of kosher salt in a large bowl. This mixture is your filling, and it combines crunch, sweetness, and spice all in one wonderfully fragrant blend. Make sure the butter is softened enough to bind the ingredients smoothly.

Step 2: Hollow Out the Apples

Take your apples and slice off the tops to create a little “lid.” Using a melon baller or a small spoon, carefully scoop out the core and a bit of the flesh to make room for the filling while keeping the apple intact. This step is key to ensuring the filling fits nicely and the apples cook evenly.

Step 3: Stuff the Apples

Fill each hollowed apple generously with the butter-nut mixture, pressing it in gently so it stays secure during cooking. Place the stuffed apples upright in your Crock-Pot, arranging them so they’re snug but not overcrowded. The filling will melt down as the apples cook, creating a delicious syrup at the bottom.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on high for about 2 hours, or on low for roughly 5 hours, until the apples are tender but not mushy. The slow cooker will slowly soften the apples, allowing the filling flavors to fully meld into the fruit. Once done, the kitchen will be filled with the most inviting, spiced aromas imaginable!

How to Serve Crock-Pot Baked Apples

Garnishes

Serving these warm Crock-Pot Baked Apples with a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a cool, creamy contrast to the tender, spiced apples. Don’t forget a drizzle of warmed caramel sauce on top for that added layer of indulgent sweetness that pulls the whole dessert together beautifully. A sprinkle of extra chopped pecans or a pinch of cinnamon on top can add a lovely finishing touch.

Side Dishes

While these baked apples work perfectly as a standalone dessert, pairing them with a light biscuit or a crispy wafer cookie can bring an extra dimension of texture. For a brunch or snack setting, serving them alongside spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee creates a cozy, comforting combo that’s hard to beat.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the classic Crock-Pot presentation by placing each baked apple in a shallow dessert bowl, with a graceful scoop of ice cream perched on top. For a holiday or special dinner, you can dust with powdered sugar and add festive garnishes like fresh mint leaves or even a cinnamon stick for added charm. These small details raise the dish from homey to extraordinary in an instant.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crock-Pot Baked Apples can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out and to preserve their tender texture. When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat to bring back the warmth and softness.

Freezing

If you want to save Crock-Pot Baked Apples for longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each apple individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just remember that the texture might soften slightly after freezing, but the flavors will still be delightful.

Reheating

The best way to reheat leftover or frozen baked apples is to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm gently in the microwave or a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes. Warming slowly keeps the apples moist and allows the spices and buttery filling to flavor the whole dish again beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Absolutely! Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji work best because they hold their shape during the slow cooking. Sweeter apples will make the dessert more naturally sweet, while tart varieties add a nice balance to the sugary filling.

Is it necessary to peel the apples before baking?

There’s no need to peel the apples. The skin helps them maintain their shape and adds a slight chewiness that contrasts nicely with the soft filling. Plus, the skin retains nutrients and gives the dish a rustic, wholesome appeal.

Can I prepare this recipe without a Crock-Pot?

While the recipe is designed for a slow cooker, you can bake the stuffed apples in a conventional oven at 350°F for about 45-60 minutes until tender. Just place them in a baking dish with a bit of water added to the bottom to keep them moist.

How can I make the filling less sweet if I prefer?

You can reduce the brown sugar or even substitute it with a natural sweetener like maple syrup, though the texture may vary slightly. Additionally, using tarter apples can help balance overall sweetness in the dish.

Are there vegan alternatives for this recipe?

Yes! Replace the butter with a plant-based substitute or coconut oil, and opt for vegan-friendly caramel sauce and ice cream to keep the dessert completely vegan without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Final Thoughts

Crock-Pot Baked Apples are truly one of those comforting desserts that feel both simple and special all at once. They bring cozy warmth and delicious sweetness to any occasion with minimal effort. Next time you want to impress yourself or your guests with a homey, unforgettable treat, give this recipe a try—you’ll soon see why it’s become a beloved favorite!

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