Crockpot Apple Crisp combines the ease of slow cooking with the warm, comforting flavors of spiced apples and a buttery walnut topping. This recipe is my go-to for those busy fall evenings or when you need an easy apple crisp dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Trust me, it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort!

Why fuss with traditional baking methods when your slow cooker can do all the heavy lifting? With this recipe, you’ll have a perfectly tender, cinnamon-spiced apple crisp in just a few steps—and the hands-off cooking time means you can focus on whatever else is on your to-do list. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply want a cozy family dessert, this slow cooker hack will save you time without skimping on flavor.

Why This Crockpot Apple Crisp Is a Game-Changer

Time-saving: Traditional apple crisp recipes require constant attention. With this homemade apple crisp slow cooker version, it’s set-it-and-forget-it.
Hands-off cooking: While your slow cooker works its magic, you’ve got 2 hours to prep dinner or relax.
Perfect texture: Slow cooking creates apples that are tender without turning mushy, and the topping hardens beautifully as it cools.
One-pot cleanup: No baking dishes or mixers required—just one slow cooker to wash up.
Customizable: Use your favorite apples, swap in pecans for walnuts, or adjust spices to make it your own.

Equipment You’ll Need for This Crockpot Apple Crisp

Here’s what you’ll need to make this dessert effortless:

A slow cooker: Any standard 4- or 6-quart slow cooker works perfectly. I recommend one with a clear lid so you can peek without lifting it.
Mixing bowls: You’ll need two small bowls to prep the topping and apple filling.
A fork or pastry cutter: For blending the crumb topping to that perfect coarse texture.

Pro Tip: If your slow cooker tends to run hot, you might want to check the apples earlier to avoid overcooking.

Simple Ingredients for Crockpot Apple Crisp

This recipe keeps things simple with everyday pantry staples and fresh apples. Here’s what you’ll need:

Apples: Go for a mix of sweet and tart apples (like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp) for the best flavor.
Walnuts: Add crunch and richness; swap with pecans if that’s what you have on hand.
Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger bring that classic warming spice profile.
Lemon juice: Brightens the apple filling and balances the sweetness.

If you’re short on time, you can even use pre-cored and sliced apples from the produce section!

Crockpot Apple Crisp at a Glance

Servings: 8 servings
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 3 hrs 30 mins
Difficulty: Easy

Crockpot Apple Crisp Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup light brown sugar
½ cup white sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 pinch salt
½ cup cold butter, cut into pieces
1 cup chopped walnuts
⅓ cup white sugar, or to taste
1 tablespoon cornstarch
½ teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
6 cups apples – peeled, cored and chopped
2 tablespoons lemon juice

How to Make Crockpot Apple Crisp

Make the topping: In a bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Add the cold butter pieces and mix with a fork (or your fingers) until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the walnuts.
Prepare the apple filling: In another small bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, ginger, and cinnamon. Place the chopped apples in the slow cooker, sprinkle the sugar mixture over, and mix well. Drizzle with lemon juice and toss to coat evenly.
Assemble: Spread the prepared topping over the apples. Cover and cook on Low for 4 hours (or High for 2 hours) until the apples are tender.
Let it set: Once done, turn off the slow cooker, partially uncover, and let it rest for about 1 hour to allow the topping to harden slightly.

Jake’s Tips for the Best Crockpot Apple Crisp

Use firm apples: Softer apples like Red Delicious may turn mushy—stick to varieties like Granny Smith or Pink Lady.
Don’t skip the lemon juice: It keeps the apples bright and prevents them from browning while adding a hint of zing.
Make ahead: You can prep both the topping and apple filling a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge until ready to cook.
Storage: Leftovers? Store cooled crisp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Batch it up: Have extra apples? Double the recipe—it freezes beautifully for a quick dessert later.

Easy Crockpot Apple Crisp Variations

Healthy option: Make a healthy apple crisp with walnuts by swapping half the butter with coconut oil and reducing the sugar.
Add berries: Toss in a handful of fresh or frozen raspberries or cranberries for a pop of tartness.
Oat topping: Replace half the flour with rolled oats for a heartier crisp.
Nut-free: Skip the walnuts entirely or substitute with sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

Crockpot Apple Crisp FAQs

What apples work best for this recipe?

Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady apples work best—they hold their shape during cooking and balance sweetness with a nice tang.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply pop it into the slow cooker.

Can I use a different topping?

Yes, an oat crumble topping or even crushed graham crackers would work well if you want to switch it up.

What if my slow cooker runs hot?

If your slow cooker tends to overheat, check the apples at the 1-hour mark when cooking on High, or after 2 hours on Low.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute in the topping and verify that all other ingredients are gluten-free-certified.

So, what’s your new favorite way to make apple crisp? Try this Crockpot Apple Crisp and let me know in the comments! I’d love to hear how you switched it up or made it your own.