The scent of sweet apples roasting gently in the Crock-Pot brings a wave of coziness that’s hard to resist. As autumn leaves fall and chilly evenings settle in, I crave the comforting warmth of Crock-Pot Baked Apples with Pecans and Oats. This simple dessert transforms fresh apples into a tender, caramelized delight that practically cooks itself, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Not only is this recipe a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also a wonderful way to satisfy that sweet tooth without the fuss. Picture your loved ones gathering around the table for a bite of this homey dish—doesn’t that sound delightful? Are you ready to bring fall flavors into your kitchen?

Why You’ll Love Crock-Pot Baked Apples

Simplicity Meets Indulgence: Creating these baked apples is a breeze, requiring minimal prep and letting the Crock-Pot do the magic.

Heavenly Aroma: The delicious scent of sweet apples wafting through your home will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?”

Versatile Ingredients: Customize the filling with nuts, dried fruits, or spices to suit your taste—perfect for anyone craving a unique twist!

Kid-Friendly Favorite: This dessert is a hit with both kids and adults, serving as a delightful way to enjoy some fruit while satisfying a sweet tooth.

Warm, Cozy Comfort: Ideal for chilly evenings, these baked apples provide that warm, homey feel that brightens up any gathering. Experience the charm of this dessert like with Comforting Charm Baked and elevate your meal times!

Crock-Pot Baked Apples Ingredients

Prepare to create this comforting dessert with ease!

For the Filling

6 Tbsp. butter, softened – Adds richness and moisture to the filling; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
1/4 cup chopped pecans – Offers a crunchy texture and nutty flavor; can be replaced with walnuts or omitted for a nut-free version.
1/4 cup old-fashioned oats – Provides structure and heartiness to the filling; instant oats can be used for a quicker option.
1/4 cup brown sugar – Adds sweetness and depth; coconut sugar or maple syrup can serve as alternatives.
1 tsp. ground cinnamon – Enhances the warming flavor profile; substitute with apple pie spice for a different twist.
1/4 tsp. ground ginger – Adds a hint of warmth and spice; can be omitted if unavailable.
Pinch kosher salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.

For the Apples

4 apples – Use varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for tartness and sweetness; select firm apples to hold their shape while cooking.

Now that you have the simple yet delightful ingredients ready, your journey to making Crock-Pot Baked Apples will be both enjoyable and delicious!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crock-Pot Baked Apples

Step 1: Prep the Apples
Begin by washing and coring the 4 firm apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, which will hold their shape as they cook. After coring, slice the apples evenly into halves or quarters, ensuring uniformity for consistent cooking. Set them aside as you prepare the delicious filling for your Crock-Pot Baked Apples.

Step 2: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine 6 tablespoons of softened butter, 1/4 cup of chopped pecans, 1/4 cup of old-fashioned oats, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger, and a pinch of kosher salt. Stir the mixture until it’s well blended and crumbly, and the inviting aroma of spices fills the air, preparing you for the next step.

Step 3: Fill the Apples
Now it’s time to stuff the apples! Take each apple half or quarter and fill the cavity generously with the prepared filling. Be sure to press the mixture down firmly to pack it snugly, allowing the flavorful blend to meld beautifully with the apples as they cook. This is where the magic of the Crock-Pot Baked Apples begins!

Step 4: Cook in the Crock-Pot
Place the filled apples upright in the Crock-Pot, ensuring there’s enough space for steam to circulate. Cover the lid and set the Crock-Pot to cook on low for about 2 hours. Throughout this time, you’ll notice the sweet scent of caramelizing fruit wafting through your kitchen, signaling that your dessert is on the way to perfection.

Step 5: Check for Doneness
After approximately 1.5 hours, peek inside the Crock-Pot to check the apples’ tenderness. They should be soft but not mushy, with a slight firmness left to them. If they aren’t quite there, continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop fully. The anticipation of your Crock-Pot Baked Apples is building!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the apples are tender and fragrant, carefully remove them from the Crock-Pot. Drizzle with warmed caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness and serve them warm. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top can add a delightful contrast to the warm, spiced apples, making this dessert truly unforgettable.

Expert Tips for Crock-Pot Baked Apples

Choose Firm Apples: Select varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Firm apples hold their shape while caramelizing, ensuring a delightful texture.
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the cooking time; start checking for doneness around 1.5 hours to avoid mushy apples.
Packing the Filling: Press the filling mixture firmly into each apple to ensure it stays snug during cooking, enhancing flavor as they bake.
Spice It Up: Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or extra spices like nutmeg for a delightful twist to your Crock-Pot Baked Apples.
Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve your baked apples warm, drizzled with caramel sauce and topped with a scoop of ice cream—perfect for chilly nights!

Crock-Pot Baked Apples Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Crock-Pot Baked Apples! Each twist adds a delightful surprise to this comforting dish.

Nut-Free: Omit the nuts entirely for a simple, allergy-friendly version that everyone can enjoy.
Fruity Addition: Toss in some raisins or cranberries for added chewiness—these dried fruits will plump up beautifully as they soak in the flavors.
Spiced Up: Mix in nutmeg or cloves with the cinnamon to elevate your apple filling, creating a spiced profile perfect for cozy evenings.
Coconut Delight: Replace butter with coconut oil for a tropical flair and a dairy-free treat that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Maple Sweetness: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup for a unique sweetness that brings a hint of caramelized richness to every bite.
Flavor Boost: Add a dash of vanilla extract to the filling for an aromatic twist that complements the apple’s natural sweetness wonderfully.
Different Nuts: Experiment with slivered almonds or hazelnuts to give your baked apples a different nutty flavor profile.
Ice Cream Inspiration: Serve these with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or try the delicious contrast of salted caramel ice cream for a special treat!

Indulge in delightful combinations and check out other stunning dessert ideas like Baked Salmon Honey or dive into a rich, savory dish with Garlic Butter Baked for your next culinary adventure!

What to Serve with Crock-Pot Baked Apples

Imagine indulging in the cozy delight of warm baked apples while pairing them with complementary flavors that elevate your dessert experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that offers a creamy contrast to the warm, spiced apples, enhancing the overall comfort of this dish.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a delicious creaminess that perfectly balances the sweetness of the apples.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warmed caramel sauce over the baked apples takes indulgence to another level, adding a rich sweetness that’s hard to resist.
Chopped Nuts: Extra pecans or walnuts provide delightful crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the texture contrast in every bite.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce brightens the sweet apples, offering a pop of color and flavor that makes the dish visually appealing.
Hot Tea: A warm cup of herbal or spiced tea complements the cozy flavors of the baked apples, making for a relaxing end to your meal.
Savory Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheeses, like cheddar or gouda, can balance the sweetness and create an interesting play of flavors on your palate.
Spiced Cider: A glass of warm apple cider with cinnamon can enhance your autumn dining experience, bringing a festive warmth to the table.

How to Store and Freeze Crock-Pot Baked Apples

Fridge: Store any leftover Crock-Pot Baked Apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating will revive their delicious taste.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked apples by placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To enjoy your baked apples, gently reheat in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Serving Suggestion: Serve reheated apples with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel for an irresistible dessert experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Crock-Pot Baked Apples are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the apple filling (mixing the softened butter, pecans, oats, brown sugar, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the flavors fresh. When you’re ready to cook, core and slice the apples and fill them with the mixture. Place the filled apples in the Crock-Pot and cook on low for about 2 hours, and you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to wow your family with minimal effort. Enjoy the benefits of a homemade treat without the last-minute rush!

Crock-Pot Baked Apples Recipe FAQs

What type of apples should I use for Crock-Pot Baked Apples?
For the best results, choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples hold their shape during cooking, creating a perfect balance between tender and intact.

How should I store leftover Crock-Pot Baked Apples?
Store any leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, simply warm them in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Can I freeze Crock-Pot Baked Apples?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the baked apples in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the microwave or oven.

What if my apples become mushy during cooking?
To prevent mushy apples, keep an eye on the cooking time. Check for doneness around the 1.5-hour mark. If they’re getting too soft, reduce the cooking time next time or remove them earlier.

Are Crock-Pot Baked Apples suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes! You can easily make this dish nut-free by simply omitting the pecans or substituting them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added texture without the allergens.

Can I make modifications to the filling?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the filling with different nuts, dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, or even add extra spices like nutmeg or cloves for a unique touch that suits your taste.