Easy Slow Cooker Apple Pie: Your Ultimate No-Fuss Fall Dessert Recipe
Discover the joy of making a classic, comforting Crockpot Apple Pie with minimal effort. This recipe is your secret weapon for achieving that beloved apple pie flavor and custardy texture, all without the stress of traditional baking or even turning on your oven. Perfect for any season, but especially delightful during fall, this slow cooker dessert offers a decadent and nostalgic experience after just 10 minutes of prep and 6 hours of hands-off cooking.
Imagine the inviting aroma of warm cinnamon and apples filling your home, building anticipation for a dessert that tastes like it took hours of complex work. This crockpot apple pie delivers on that promise, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, holiday gatherings, or simply a cozy treat when you’re craving something sweet and satisfying.
💚 About This Easy Slow Cooker Apple Pie Recipe
For many, traditional baking can feel a bit daunting, especially when it involves delicate pie crusts and constant oven monitoring. That’s precisely why this slow cooker apple pie recipe is a game-changer! It’s designed for simplicity and maximum flavor, offering a perfect solution for a delicious fall dessert or any time you’re craving a comforting treat.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its “set it and forget it” nature. You simply combine the ingredients, place them in your crockpot, and let the slow cooker work its magic. Gone are the days of worrying about a perfectly flaky crust or an evenly baked filling. In just a few hours, you’ll be rewarded with a perfectly cooked, delicious apple pie, complete with tender apples and a lovely, custardy base, all without the usual baking stress.
What’s more, this recipe invites you to enhance its already wonderful flavors. Consider using a Homemade Apple Pie Spice blend to infuse even more classic, warm, and aromatic notes into this delightful slow cooker dessert. It’s an effortless way to elevate the taste profile and make this easy pie truly unforgettable for family and friends.
🧂 Essential Ingredients for Your Slow Cooker Apple Pie
Creating this irresistible slow cooker apple pie requires just a handful of common ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your pantry. Each component plays a vital role in building the pie’s incredible flavor and unique “crust” in the crockpot. Gather these simple items to embark on your effortless dessert journey:
- Fresh Apples: The star of our pie! While you can certainly peel them if you prefer, leaving the peels on saves time and adds a touch of rustic charm and fiber. Choose your favorite baking apples; popular options include Granny Smith for a tart balance, Honeycrisp or Gala for sweetness and crispness, or Fuji for a firm, sweet texture. A mix of varieties can also add depth of flavor.
- Warm Spices (Nutmeg & Cinnamon): These two spices are the heart of classic apple pie flavor. Their warm, earthy notes complement the apples beautifully. Don’t hesitate to experiment with other autumnal spices like ground cloves, allspice, or ginger for an even richer and more complex flavor profile.
- Eggs: Crucial for binding the ingredients and providing a luscious, custardy texture to the pie filling. They ensure the filling sets beautifully as it slow cooks, contributing to a rich and creamy consistency.
- Milk: Adds moisture and helps create the smooth, tender texture of the pie base. Feel free to substitute with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or oat milk if you have dietary preferences.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances all the other flavors, adding a sweet and fragrant aroma that makes the pie truly irresistible.
- Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness to balance the tartness of the apples and spices. For a healthier option, you can easily substitute with granulated Splenda or your preferred sugar substitute without compromising on taste.
- Butter: Essential for that comforting, rich, and slightly savory flavor that defines a good apple pie. It also contributes to the tender texture of the “crust” and the crumble topping.
- Bisquick: This is our “secret ingredient” that magically forms a delicious, cake-like crust in the slow cooker! It simplifies the process by eliminating the need for traditional pie dough, making this recipe incredibly accessible.
- Brown Sugar: Used primarily in the crumble topping, brown sugar adds a deep, molasses-rich sweetness and a wonderfully chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the autumnal spices and crisp apples.
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Easy Crockpot Apple Pie
Making this slow cooker apple pie is incredibly simple, requiring just a few easy steps. Follow these instructions to create a delicious, no-fuss dessert that will impress everyone.
- Begin by preparing your apples. Use an apple wedger to slice the apples, then chop these slices into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes for easier serving.
- In a medium-sized bowl, gently toss the chopped apples with a blend of cinnamon and nutmeg. Ensure the apples are evenly coated with the fragrant spices.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine the wet and dry ingredients for the “crust” and filling base. Whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, and Bisquick until a smooth batter forms, with most large lumps dissolved.
- First, generously coat the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray. Then, add the spiced apple mixture to the prepared slow cooker. Carefully pour the Bisquick mixture evenly over the apples.
- Now, prepare the delectable crumble topping. In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, the remaining Bisquick, and the rest of the cinnamon.
- Add the remaining cold butter to the dry topping ingredients. Use a fork or a pastry blender to cut the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse, crumb-like texture.
- Evenly sprinkle the prepared crumble topping over the apple and Bisquick mixture in the slow cooker. Once covered, cook on low for approximately 6 hours, or until the apples are tender and the topping is set.
❔ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Apple Pie
Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making this delicious crockpot apple pie:
For this particular Bisquick apple pie, there’s absolutely no need to pre-cook your apples! The slow cooking process is designed to perfectly tenderize the apples, allowing them to soften beautifully and absorb all the wonderful flavors over several hours. This “no pre-cook” method is part of what makes this recipe so incredibly easy and hands-off.
The best apples for pie filling often come down to a balance of flavor and texture. For this slow cooker pie, apples that hold their shape well and offer a good flavor are ideal. Popular choices include tart Granny Smith apples (which provide a lovely contrast to the sweetness), crisp Honeycrisp, and sweet Golden Delicious. You can also mix varieties to create a more complex flavor profile!
Yes, absolutely! Pears or various berries (like blueberries or raspberries) can be fantastic additions, adding a delightful twist to the classic apple flavor. However, when adding other fruits, especially berries, be mindful of their water content. Fruits with high water content might make your pie a bit runnier, so you might consider adding an extra tablespoon of Bisquick or cornstarch to the fruit mixture to help absorb excess moisture.
For this recipe, a 4-quart or 6-quart slow cooker works best. A 6-quart will give you a slightly thinner pie layer, while a 4-quart will result in a thicker, more substantial pie. Ensure your slow cooker is adequately sized to prevent overflow once the apples soften and the mixture settles.
While traditional pies struggle with soggy bottoms, slow cooker pies are naturally different due to the lack of a conventional crust. The Bisquick mixture forms a cake-like base that absorbs the apple juices. To help minimize excess moisture, ensure your apples are not overly wet after washing (pat them dry if needed) and consider adding a very thin layer of dry Bisquick or breadcrumbs at the bottom of the slow cooker before adding the apples, though this is usually not necessary for this specific recipe.
For more apple-infused goodness, apple lovers will also appreciate this homemade Caramel Apple Crisp recipe. It’s wonderfully sweet and tart, and absolutely delicious!
💭 Expert Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Slow Cooker Apple Pie
To ensure your crockpot apple pie turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- To Peel or Not to Peel: While some prefer peeled apples for a smoother texture, I highly recommend saving time and retaining extra fiber by leaving the peels on. They soften beautifully in the slow cooker and add a lovely rustic element.
- Butter Temperature Matters: For the main pie filling, use melted butter as it blends smoothly with the wet ingredients. However, for the crumb topping, always use *cold butter*. Cutting cold butter into the dry ingredients is key to achieving that wonderful, crumbly, streusel-like texture.
- Don’t Stress About Lumps: When mixing the Bisquick batter, don’t worry if there are still a few small lumps. The slow cooking process will ensure everything melds together beautifully, resulting in a smooth and tender base.
- Creative Serving Suggestions: This easy dessert is incredibly versatile! For a fun and personalized serving idea, scoop individual portions into charming mason jars. Top with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of fresh whipped cream, a sprinkle of chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work well), a decadent caramel drizzle, or even an extra dusting of cinnamon.
- Check for Doneness: While the recipe suggests 6 hours, cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker. The pie is ready when the apples are fork-tender and the Bisquick mixture is set and no longer jiggly in the center.
- Line Your Slow Cooker (Optional): For even easier cleanup, you can use a slow cooker liner. This will ensure nothing sticks to the sides and you can lift out the pie with ease.
📌 Perfect for cozy fall and winter nights, this slow cooker apple pie is an excellent set-it-and-forget-it dessert! This is also the ideal way to make use of any fresh fruits you acquire while apple picking, turning your harvest into a comforting treat.
💡 Substitutions and Variations to Customize Your Apple Pie
This slow cooker apple pie recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to get creative with these delicious substitutions and variations:
- Apple Varieties: While Gala and Honeycrisp apples are my go-to for their sweetness and texture, don’t hesitate to use your favorite variety of apple. Tart Granny Smiths provide a nice contrast, while Fuji or Braeburn offer a firmer bite. A mix of sweet and tart apples can create a more dynamic flavor profile.
- Enhanced Spice Blend: For an even deeper and richer flavor, expand beyond just cinnamon and nutmeg. Incorporate other warm spices such as ground cloves, allspice, cardamom, or a touch of ground ginger. These autumnal additions will make your pie incredibly aromatic and flavorful.
- Serving Enhancements: Serve your apple pie warm on its own, or elevate it with a big scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, a generous dollop of Cool Whip, or a beautiful swirl of homemade whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted pecans would also be fantastic.
- Heartier “Crust” or Topping: If you desire a more substantial or textured “crust” or crumble topping, consider adding some old-fashioned rolled oats or quick oats to the Bisquick mixture. This will give it more of a comforting, chewy bite and a streusel-like quality.
- Crockpot Apple Dump Cake: For a quick and easy twist, try using a spice cake mix instead of the Bisquick for the base. This transforms it into a delightful crockpot apple dump cake recipe, offering a different texture and flavor.
- A Hint of Citrus: A small amount of lemon juice (about 1-2 teaspoons) can be added to the apple mixture. This helps to brighten the flavors, prevent apples from browning, and provide a lovely tart counterpoint to the sweetness and warm spices.
- Nutty Additions: Fold in a half cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the apple mixture or sprinkle them on top with the crumble for added crunch and nutty flavor.
🔊 What Readers Are Saying About This Recipe…
“I just made this. In my crockpot, it took less than 6 hours on low – It is yummy. And the house smells amazing while it is cooking.”
– Rosario
🥫 Storage and Reheating Tips
Properly storing and reheating your crockpot apple pie ensures you can enjoy its deliciousness for days to come:
- Refrigeration: For the best results and to maintain freshness, store any leftover apple pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 4 to 5 days, making it perfect for meal prepping desserts throughout the week.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply scoop a portion into a microwave-safe dish and warm it in the microwave until heated through. Alternatively, you can gently warm individual servings in a conventional oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warm. This pie is also incredibly delicious when enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge!
- Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this crockpot apple pie! Once cooled completely, wrap individual portions or the entire leftover pie tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It should last for 3 to 4 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before eating or reheating.
🍴 What to Serve with This Delicious Slow Cooker Apple Pie
While this slow cooker apple pie makes a fantastic standalone dessert, it pairs wonderfully with a hearty and comforting dinner. Here are some meal suggestions that perfectly complement the cozy flavors of apple pie:
- For a truly comforting and cozy main course, try this incredibly popular Marry Me Chicken, known for its creamy, flavorful sauce.
- If you’re looking for an easy, family-friendly option, a cheesy One Pot Broccoli Mac and Cheese provides a satisfying and creamy contrast.
- If you have the luxury of more than one slow cooker, an Easy Slow Cooker Cube Steak offers tender, savory goodness that’s perfect for a weekend meal.
- Another excellent one-pot wonder is this One Pot Creamy Chicken Mushroom Orzo, which is both elegant and simple to prepare.
- For a lighter, yet still satisfying meal, consider a roasted pork tenderloin with herbs, or even a simple grilled chicken salad.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of mulled cider for the ultimate autumnal experience.
✔️ More Crock Pot Desserts You’ll Love
If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and deliciousness of slow cooker desserts, you’re in luck! There are many more effortless treats you can make in your crockpot:
- Crock Pot Pumpkin Cake – Another fantastic fall recipe that comes together with incredible ease right in your crock pot, perfect for autumn festivities.
- Guinness Chocolate Cake – This surprisingly simple yet decadent and deeply chocolatey dessert bakes perfectly every time in the slow cooker, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Crock Pot French Toast Casserole – Excellent as a special breakfast, a delightful brunch, or even a comforting dessert, this nostalgic recipe is incredibly easy to prepare in the slow cooker.
- Crock Pot Apple Cobbler – If you adore the flavors of my crockpot apple pie, you simply must give this wonderful recipe from Amanda’s Cookin a try for another fantastic apple treat!
Your New Favorite Slow Cooker Apple Pie Recipe
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Crockpot Apple Pie
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Ingredients
- 6-8 apples (no need to peel them)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon (divided)
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 eggs
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sugar (or you can use granulated Splenda)
- 5 tablespoons butter, room temperature (divided)
- 1 ½ cups Bisquick (divided)
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
Instructions
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Coat the inside of the crock pot with cooking spray.
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Use an apple wedger to wedge the apples, then slice each wedge into pieces.6-8 apples
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In a large bowl, toss the apples with 1 and ½ teaspoons cinnamon and the nutmeg.2 teaspoons cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
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In another bowl, combine the eggs, milk, vanilla, sugar, 2 tablespoons of butter (tip: melt the butter in the microwave first – use 50% power for 30 to 45 seconds) and ¾ cup of Bisquick. Whisk until most of the large lumps have dissolved.2 eggs, ¾ cup milk, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, 1 cup sugar, 5 tablespoons butter, room temperature, 1 ½ cups Bisquick
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Place the apples in the slow cooker, then pour the Bisquick mixture on top.
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Make the topping by combining the brown sugar, the remaining ¾ cup of Bisquick, and remaining ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Add in the remaining butter and combine with a fork until they form coarse crumbles.⅓ cup brown sugar
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Sprinkle on top of the apples. Cover and cook on low approximately 6 hours.
Notes
- You can use your favorite type of apple. I have used gala and honeycrisp because they are nice and sweet.
- If you forget to take out the butter out of the refrigerator ahead of time to come up to room temperature, separate the 2 tablespoons for use in the Bisquick mix from the 3 tablespoons for use in the topping. The 2 tablespoons you can melt in the microwave. The 3 tablespoons for the topping you can dice into small pieces and spread out on a plate or other clean surface. It will come up to room temperature more quickly that way (about 10-15 minutes).
- When you mix the Bisquick mixture, don’t worry if there are still some lumps when you pour it over the apples.
- Add more spices for additional flavor. Cardamom, cloves, and ginger are great choices.
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Nutrition
Nutritional information is an estimate. The nutritional values for your final dish may vary based on measuring differences and products used.
Update Notes: This post was originally published in June 2014, and was republished with updated tips, step-by-step photos, and a refined recipe in November 2023.
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