Slow Cooker Spiced Apples Recipe

Introduction

This Slow Cooker Spiced Apples recipe brings warm, comforting flavors to your kitchen with minimal effort. Sweet apples simmered with spices and maple syrup create a cozy dessert or topping perfect for any season.

Ingredients

• 7 large apples, sliced (use a sweet variety such as Honeycrisp)
• 1 Tbsp orange zest (about the zest of 1 large orange)
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1 tsp apple pie spice
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2/3 cup apple cider or apple juice
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, cubed and cold
• 1 1/2 Tbsp cornstarch
• Whipped cream (optional, for serving)
• Ice cream (optional, for serving)
• Caramel sauce (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large slow cooker, combine the sliced apples, orange zest, maple syrup, apple pie spice, ground cinnamon, apple cider, cold cubed butter, and cornstarch.
2. Step 2: Stir the mixture gently until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Step 3: Cook on low heat for 3 to 3 1/2 hours, or until the apples are softened and the sauce has thickened. Stir once or twice during cooking to prevent sticking.
4. Step 4: Serve the spiced apples immediately, or switch the slow cooker to the ‘warm’ setting if you’re not ready to eat yet.
5. Step 5: Enjoy as is or topped with whipped cream, ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgence.

Tips & Variations

• Use a sweet apple variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best balance of flavor and texture.
• For a deeper spice flavor, add a pinch of ground nutmeg or cloves along with the cinnamon.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little cold water before adding to avoid lumps.
• Try serving warm spiced apples over pancakes, oatmeal, or yogurt for a delicious breakfast twist.

Storage

Store leftover spiced apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. If the sauce thickens too much after cooling, stir in a splash of apple cider or water when reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?

Fresh apples are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but frozen apples can work if thawed completely and drained well to avoid excess liquid.

What can I use instead of apple cider?

If you don’t have apple cider, apple juice or a mild white grape juice can be a good substitute and will still add a lovely fruity sweetness to the dish.

Slow Cooker Spiced Apples Recipe

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4.9 from 108 reviews

Slow Cooker Spiced Apples are a warm, comforting dessert made with tender sweet apples simmered in a flavorful blend of orange zest, maple syrup, and warm spices like cinnamon and apple pie spice. This easy slow cooker recipe results in a thick, luscious sauce perfect for serving with whipped cream, ice cream, or drizzled with caramel sauce for a cozy autumn treat.

• Author: Ruby
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 to 3 1/2 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Apples and Spices

• 7 large apples, sliced (preferably a sweet variety like Honeycrisp)
• 1 Tbsp orange zest (from 1 large orange)
• 1 tsp apple pie spice
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Liquids and Thickeners

• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 2/3 cup apple cider or apple juice
• 1 1/2 Tbsp cornstarch

Additional Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, cubed and cold
• Whipped cream, for serving
• Ice cream, for serving
• Caramel sauce, for serving

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large crockpot, add the sliced apples, fresh orange zest, maple syrup, apple pie spice, ground cinnamon, apple cider or apple juice, cold cubed butter, and cornstarch. This mixture will build the base of your spiced apples with sweetness, warmth, and texture.
2. Mix Together: Stir the mixture gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined, ensuring the cornstarch is well incorporated to prevent lumps and help thicken the sauce.
3. Cook Slowly: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 3 to 3 1/2 hours. Cook until the apples have softened to a tender consistency and the sauce has thickened nicely. Stir the mixture once or twice during cooking to distribute heat evenly and prevent sticking.
4. Keep Warm: When cooking time is complete, you can serve the spiced apples immediately or switch the slow cooker to the ‘warm’ setting to keep the dessert at an ideal serving temperature until ready.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the warm spiced apples into bowls or over your favorite dessert. Top with whipped cream, a scoop of ice cream, and a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent finish.

Notes

• Use sweet apple varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala for the best natural sweetness.
• Adjust the amount of maple syrup depending on your desired level of sweetness.
• Stirring occasionally during cooking helps prevent the apples from sticking to the slow cooker base.
• These spiced apples can be served warm or chilled and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• For a thicker sauce, you can increase cornstarch by 1/2 tablespoon.

Keywords: slow cooker spiced apples, slow cooker apple dessert, spiced apple recipe, autumn dessert, easy slow cooker desserts