Slow Cooker Apple Crisp Instant Oatmeal Recipe

Slow cooker apple crisp instant oatmeal recipe is the perfect solution if you are looking for a cozy dessert with minimal prep time! Combining the classic flavors of apple crisp with the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe is an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert ideal for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving, or just a simple weeknight treat.

Plus, the cinnamon and brown sugar topping is a warm, crunchy delight over tender, spiced Granny Smith apples. Follow this step-by-step guide to creating an irresistibly tasty easy apple crisp recipe that will fill your home with the warm aroma of autumn.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Apple Crisp is the ideal solution for anyone craving a delicious dessert without the hassle. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the apples to become perfectly tender, while the oatmeal crisp topping made from instant oatmeal packets adds just the right amount of crunch.

Plus, with a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of around 3 hours, it’s an easy, no-fuss recipe that’s also perfect for potlucks and Thanksgiving gatherings.

No need for a baking dish or extra dishes to wash; just enjoy this oatmeal apple crisp straight from the slow cooker!

Ingredients for Apple Crisp Instant Oatmeal

For the Apples:

• 7 Granny Smith apples – peeled, cored, and chopped into evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – helps prevent browning and enhances flavor
• ¼ cup sugar – adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tartness of the apples
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon – for warm, classic apple crisp flavor
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds a hint of depth to the apple filling

For the Oatmeal Topping:

• 1 packet instant oatmeal (maple & brown sugar flavor) – gives the crisp a quick, deliciously sweet oat layer and you probably have leftover instant oatmeal on hand.
• ½ cup all-purpose flour – helps to bind the topping, creating a crispy texture
• ¼ cup brown sugar – adds a rich sweetness and complements the maple flavor
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon – for added warmth and depth in the topping
• ½ teaspoon baking powder – gives a bit of lift, making the topping lighter
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg – enhances the spice profile for a cozy fall flavor
• ¼ teaspoon salt – balances sweetness and enhances all flavors
• 1 stick cold butter, cubed – creates a tender, crumbly texture when baked

Looking for more recipes using instant oatmeal packets? You’ll love this recipe for oatmeal cookies with instant oatmeal. These oatmeal packet cookies may be the best oatmeal cookies in the world, so you don’t want to miss this recipe.

Apple Crisp Instant Oatmeal Recipe Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

In a large bowl, combine the chopped Granny Smith apples with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix well, then pour the apple mixture into your slow cooker.

Step 2: Make the Instant Oatmeal Topping

In another bowl, mix the instant oatmeal packet, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt. Add the cold butter, using a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the topping resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 3: Assemble and Cook

Evenly sprinkle the topping mixture over the apples in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for about 3 hours or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden and crisp.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop the warm apple crisp into bowls and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Apple Crisp

• Use the Right Apples: Red Delicious apples and Granny Smith apples work best due to their firm texture and tart flavor, which balances the sweetness of the topping.
• Oatmeal Packet Shortcut: The instant oatmeal packet (especially the maple & brown sugar flavor) adds extra flavor and texture, making this recipe super easy.
• Customize the Sweetness: Adjust the brown sugar in the topping based on your preference. Add a bit more if you prefer a sweeter crisp.

FAQ for Apple Crisp Instant Oatmeal Recipe

What’s the difference between apple crumble and apple crisp?

A classic apple crumble is similar to an apple crisp but typically omits the oats in the topping. This results in a denser, clumpier topping that’s usually made from flour, sugar, and butter. An apple crisp often includes oats, giving it a slightly crunchier texture. Both are delicious, but the oats in apple crisp add a nutty, satisfying layer that many people love.

What are the best apples to use for apple crisp?

The best apples for an apple crisp recipe are firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples hold up well during baking, preventing a mushy texture. Mixing Granny Smith with a sweeter apple, like Golden Delicious, can add complexity to the flavor while keeping the perfect balance between tart and sweet.

Should you peel apples for apple crisp?

Peeling apples for apple crisp is generally recommended for a smoother filling texture. For this recipe, peel and chop about seven Granny Smith apples into even pieces, so they cook evenly. Leaving the peels on is an option if you prefer more texture, but it may affect the consistency of the crisp.

Can I cut apples the night before for apple crisp?

Yes, you can prep the apples the night before! Peel, core, and slice them, then toss with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning. Store them in a sealed container or freezer bag in the refrigerator for up to one day, making the apple crisp quick and easy to assemble when you’re ready to bake.

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