Easy Crockpot Cinnamon Apples: Your Ultimate Slow Cooker Recipe for a Delicious Fall Treat
There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of cinnamon and apples slow-cooking to perfection. Our **Crockpot Cinnamon Apples** recipe delivers just that: tender, soft apple slices bathed in a rich, sweet, and perfectly spiced syrup. This effortless slow cooker dish fills your home with the inviting scents of autumn, making it an instant family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a delightful breakfast topping, a comforting side dish for dinner, or a warm, cozy dessert, these cinnamon apples are incredibly versatile and utterly delicious.
Why This Slow Cooker Apple Recipe Is a Must-Try
This recipe for slow cooker cinnamon apples isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience. The flavors and aromas instantly transport you to a cozy autumn day, making it the quintessential fall comfort food. Here’s why this method stands out:
- Effortless Preparation: Simply peel, slice, toss with a few ingredients, and let your crockpot do all the work. It requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy days or when you’re entertaining.
- Perfect Texture Every Time: Slow cooking ensures that the apples become incredibly tender without turning into a watery mush. They retain their shape beautifully while soaking up all the delicious cinnamon-sugar syrup.
- Versatility for Any Meal: These apples are a chameleon in the kitchen! Serve them for breakfast over oatmeal or pancakes, as a delightful side to savory meats, or as a warm, inviting dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Aromatic Bliss: As the apples gently simmer, the sweet scent of cinnamon fills your entire home, creating an inviting and comforting atmosphere that truly signals “sweater weather.”
- Ideal for Apple Season: If you’ve just returned from an apple orchard with a bounty of freshly picked apples, this recipe is a fantastic way to utilize them. It’s an easy and delicious solution for enjoying your harvest beyond traditional pies.
If you’re looking for more ways to enjoy your fresh apples, be sure to try our hot apple cider for another warming autumn treat!
Simple Ingredients for Irresistible Crockpot Cinnamon Apples
One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity, relying on just a few common pantry staples to create something truly magical. You won’t need a long shopping list to whip up this cozy dish. For precise measurements, please refer to the printable recipe card located at the end of this post.
Ingredient Spotlight: Tips for Best Results and Flavor Variations
Understanding your ingredients and their roles can elevate your crockpot cinnamon apples from good to absolutely phenomenal. Here’s a deeper dive into what you’ll need:
Choosing the Best Apples for Slow Cooking
APPLE VARIETY: The choice of apple is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. We highly recommend using a **firm apple** that will hold its shape well during the long cooking process and not turn to mush. Some excellent choices include:
- Granny Smith: Known for their crisp texture and tart flavor, they provide a lovely balance to the sweetness of the sugar and cinnamon. They also maintain their shape exceptionally well.
- Golden Delicious: These offer a sweeter, milder flavor and a slightly softer texture than Granny Smith, but still hold up nicely.
- Pink Lady: A fantastic all-purpose apple, offering a sweet-tart flavor and firm flesh.
- Honeycrisp: Exceptionally crisp and sweet, Honeycrisp apples retain their structure beautifully and offer a delightful flavor.
- Fuji: Sweet and juicy with a firm flesh, Fuji apples are another great option.
- Gala: Milder in sweetness and crispness than Honeycrisp, they cook down nicely.
- Red Delicious: While visually appealing, some find these become softer more quickly, so monitor them if using.
IMPORTANT SLICING TIP: Ensure your apples are sliced at about **1/3 to 1/2 inch thickness**. Slices that are too thin can become soggy and lose their structural integrity, while overly thick slices might take too long to soften. If you’re using a particularly firm apple, you can lean towards thinner slices (1/3 inch). For softer varieties, opt for thicker slices (1/2 inch) to help them maintain their shape. An apple corer/slicer can make this step much easier and ensure uniform thickness.
Sweeteners and Spices
- GRANULATED SUGAR: This recipe calls for granulated sugar, providing clean sweetness. You can adjust the amount based on your apple variety and personal preference; if your apples are very sweet, you might reduce the sugar to 1/2 cup. For a deeper, caramelized flavor, consider using a mix of granulated sugar and light brown sugar. Maple syrup or honey can also be used for a more natural sweetness, though they will slightly alter the flavor profile and color of the syrup.
- CINNAMON: Ground cinnamon is the star spice here, providing warmth and classic apple pie flavor. For an extra boost of flavor, you can add a pinch of other warm spices like nutmeg, allspice, or a tiny dash of ground cloves. A whole cinnamon stick cooked with the apples can also infuse a lovely, subtle flavor.
The Richness of Butter
BUTTER: Unsalted butter is dotted over the apples before cooking. As it melts, it coats the apples, adding a rich, creamy depth to the syrup and contributing to the overall indulgent flavor. For a dairy-free option, a plant-based butter alternative can be used. If you only have salted butter, you can use it but might consider slightly reducing the overall sugar if you are sensitive to salt balance.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Crockpot Cinnamon Apples
These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this delicious recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and detailed instructions at the bottom of this post.
- Prepare the Apples: Begin by thoroughly washing your apples. Then, peel and core them. Once peeled and cored, slice the apples into uniform pieces, about 1/3 to 1/2 inch thick. This consistency in thickness is key for even cooking.
EXPERT TIP: If you’re using a very firm apple variety (like Granny Smith), you can slice them slightly thinner. If your apples are on the softer side, cut them a bit thicker to help them retain their shape during the slow cooking process. An apple corer and slicer can make this task much faster and ensure consistent results.
- Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Place all your prepared apple slices into a 6-quart crockpot. Evenly sprinkle the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon over the apples. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every apple slice is coated with the sweet spice mixture.
- Add Butter and Cook: Take the butter and cut it into small pieces or cubes. Dot these butter pieces strategically over the top of the apple mixture in the crockpot. The butter will melt down, enriching the flavors as the apples cook. Cover the crockpot with its lid.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Cook the apples on High for approximately 3 hours, or on Low for about 6 hours. We found that cooking on high for around 2 hours and 45 minutes often yields the best texture – tender but not soggy, retaining a nice shape.
MONITORING FOR DONENESS: Cooking times can vary significantly based on your slow cooker’s brand, model, and the type of apples you use. Begin checking for tenderness around the 2-hour mark if cooking on high, and every 15 minutes thereafter. The apples should be easily pierced with a fork but still have some integrity. Stirring gently once halfway through the cooking time can help ensure even cooking and coating.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Apples
For the best results, we strongly suggest opting for a firm apple variety. Excellent choices include Granny Smith (as pictured in this recipe), Golden Delicious, Pink Lady, Red Delicious, Gala, Fuji, and Honeycrisp. These firmer apples are less likely to break down and will hold their shape beautifully during the slow-cooking process, giving you distinct, tender slices rather than a mushy apple sauce. While you *can* use softer apple varieties, be sure to keep a very close eye on them towards the end of the cooking time, as they can become “mushy” or “soggy” much quicker.
The main challenge with prepping apple slices too far in advance is oxidation – they tend to brown quickly when exposed to air. To avoid this, we recommend preparing (peeling, coring, and slicing) your apples right when you’re ready to combine them in the crockpot and start cooking. If you absolutely need to prep them ahead of time, you can toss them with a tablespoon of lemon juice to help prevent browning, but it’s still best to cook them within a few hours.
While these crockpot cinnamon apples are undeniably best served fresh and warm, leftovers can be stored. Allow the apples to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To reheat, you can gently warm them in the crockpot on a low setting, or on the stovetop over medium-low heat until heated through. Yes, you can also freeze them! To do so, line a glass baking dish with plastic wrap, arrange the cooled apples in a single layer on top, and pop them into the freezer until solid (this is called flash freezing). Once frozen, remove them from the dish using the plastic wrap, then transfer the frozen apples to a freezer-safe bag (like a Ziploc) or another airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, remove them from the freezer, unwrap if necessary, and place them in a bowl to thaw in the refrigerator overnight or on the counter for a few hours. Reheat as desired.
No, typically you do not need to add any additional water or liquid to this recipe. Apples naturally release a significant amount of moisture as they cook, especially during a slow cooking process. This liquid combines with the sugar and butter to create a wonderful, rich syrup. Adding extra water could make the sauce too thin or watery.
The key to preventing mushy apples lies in two main factors: apple choice and cooking time. First, always select a firm apple variety (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) as they hold their shape much better. Second, keep a close eye on your cooking time. Slow cookers can vary, so start checking for tenderness at the earlier end of the suggested cooking window (e.g., after 2 hours on high) and then every 15 minutes until they reach your desired tender-but-firm consistency. Overcooking is the primary cause of mushy apples.
Absolutely! The sweetness can be easily customized. If your apples are naturally very sweet (like Fuji or Honeycrisp), you might reduce the granulated sugar to 1/2 cup or even a bit less. If you prefer a tarter profile, or are using very tart apples like Granny Smiths, you can stick with the recommended 2/3 cup or even add a tablespoon more to taste. You can also experiment with brown sugar for a richer, molasses-like sweetness.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Crockpot Cinnamon Apples
The beauty of these crockpot cinnamon apples lies in their incredible versatility. They can truly be enjoyed at any time of day and pair wonderfully with a variety of other dishes:
- For Breakfast:
- Spoon them warm over a bowl of hearty oatmeal or creamy yogurt.
- Top your pancakes or waffles with these soft, spiced apples and a drizzle of the syrup.
- Serve them alongside scrambled eggs and bacon for a comforting morning meal.
- Spread them on toast with a dollop of cream cheese for a quick and satisfying bite.
- As a Side Dish for Dinner:
- They are a fantastic accompaniment to savory meat dishes like roast pork, roasted chicken, or even a holiday turkey. The sweet and tart notes cut through the richness of the meat beautifully.
- Pair them with grilled sausages or pork chops for a delicious contrast.
- A wonderful addition to any Thanksgiving or holiday feast.
- For Dessert:
- Simply serve them warm in a bowl, perhaps with a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a swirl of fresh whipped cream.
- Use them as a filling for quick turnovers, crepes, or even inside puff pastry.
- Top them with a crunchy oat crumble and bake for a quick apple crisp.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
- Serve alongside a slice of pound cake or shortbread cookies.
- As a Simple Snack: Enjoy them straight from the crockpot for a warm, healthy, and satisfying snack anytime.
More Delicious Apple Recipes to Explore
If you’ve fallen in love with these crockpot cinnamon apples and are looking for more ways to enjoy this incredible fruit, here are some other fantastic apple recipes:
- Mini Apple Pies
- Apple Pizza
- Apple Pie Cookies
- Baked Apple Crisp
- Air Fryer Apple Fries
- Apple Cider Milkshake
- Crockpot Apple Cobbler
- Apple Cranberry Cobbler
- Apple Hand Pies
- 3-Ingredient Apple Pie Cupcakes
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Crockpot Cinnamon Apples
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Course:
Breakfast, Desserts, Side Dish
Cuisine:
American
6
servings
3 hours
10 minutes
215
Amanda Davis
Ingredients
-
6
large Granny Smith apples
about 3 lbs – peeled and cored. Or any firm apple variety. -
⅔
cup
granulated sugar
(use 1/2 cup if your apples are super sweet, or adjust to taste) -
2
teaspoons
ground cinnamon -
2
tablespoons
unsalted butter
Things You’ll Need
-
6 qt Crockpot -
Fruit and veggie peeler -
Apple corer slicer -
Measuring cups and spoons
Before You Begin
- Cook times may vary based on your specific slow cooker brand, size, model, and even the type of apples you use. It’s important to note that you will want to check on your apples for desired doneness after the 2-hour mark (if cooking on high). Desired texture and tenderness are based upon individual preference.
- Using a firm apple variety such as Granny Smith, Gala, Fuji, Golden Delicious, Red Delicious, and Honeycrisp will consistently hold their shape better in the slow cooker compared to softer apple varieties.
Instructions
-
Peel, core, and slice apples about 1/3 to 1/2 inch thick. Place all the prepared apple slices into a 4 or 6-quart crockpot.
-
Evenly sprinkle with granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, then stir gently to coat all the apple slices evenly.
-
Cut the butter into small pieces and dot them over the top of the cinnamon-sugar coated apples in the crockpot.
-
Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on High for approximately 3 hours, or on Low for about 6 hours. For best results and even cooking, stir the apples gently once halfway through the cooking time.
-
The apples are perfectly done when they are tender but still retain their shape and don’t appear soggy. For our slow cooker, around 2 hours and 45 minutes on high produced the ideal texture. It’s crucial to keep an eye on your apples towards the end; begin checking for tenderness every 15 minutes after the 2-hour mark to prevent overcooking.
Nutrition
Serving:
1
serving
|
Calories:
215
cal
|
Carbohydrates:
47
g
|
Fat:
4
g
|
Saturated Fat:
2
g
|
Cholesterol:
10
mg
|
Sodium:
35
mg
|
Potassium:
194
mg
|
Fiber:
4
g
|
Sugar:
41
g
|
Vitamin A:
215
IU
|
Vitamin C:
8.3
mg
|
Calcium:
18
mg
|
Iron:
0.3
mg
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The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.