Slow Cooker Cinnamon Baked Apples: A Simple Warm Dessert Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a more decadent presentation, serve these apples warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The contrast between the cold, creamy topping and the warm, spiced apple is delicious.

You can also sprinkle some toasted chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts over the top just before serving for added texture and a delightful crunch.

If you prefer a thicker syrup, you can remove the apples once they are done and whisk the remaining liquid in the slow cooker with a teaspoon of cornstarch.

Heat this mixture on high for a few minutes until it thickens slightly into a glaze, then pour it over the apples before serving. This extra step adds a professional finish to the dish and concentrates the flavors of the apple juices and spices.

Variations

• Nutty Crunch: Add a tablespoon of finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the center of each apple along with the butter and sugar for a delightful, toasted crunch in every bite.
• Dried Fruit Twist: Mix a teaspoon of raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dates into the brown sugar mixture before stuffing the apples to add a chewy texture and concentrated sweetness.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat

Warm in the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds or in a 300°F oven until heated through.

Allow the baked apples to cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator, where they will keep for up to three days. To maintain the best texture, try to store them in a single layer so they do not get crushed. When ready to eat, they can be enjoyed chilled or gently rewarmed in the microwave or a low oven.

These baked apples are an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can prepare and cook them earlier in the day, then simply store them in the refrigerator. They actually taste even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld.

When you are ready to serve, just reheat them gently until they are warmed through, which makes this a stress-free option for hosting guests or planning a quick weeknight treat.

Serving ideas

Serve the baked apples warm in individual shallow bowls to catch any of the delicious syrup that pools at the bottom. Use a large spoon to carefully lift each apple from the slow cooker, ensuring you capture some of the softened fruit and the sweet, cinnamon-infused juices. The presentation is simple yet elegant, making it a perfect conclusion to a cozy dinner.

Consider garnishing each serving with a small sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of extra cinnamon for visual appeal.

If you enjoy a bit of texture, a handful of granola or crushed ginger cookies can provide a nice crunch that complements the softness of the cooked fruit. Remember to provide a small spoon for each guest so they can easily scoop out the tender center of the apple.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Cinnamon Baked Apples: A Simple Warm Dessert

Prep 5 minCook 3 hRest 5 minTotal 3 h 10 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 6 large apples, cored
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup apple juice

Instructions

1. Core the apples carefully, ensuring the bottom remains intact so the filling stays inside. Place the prepared apples upright in the base of the slow cooker.
2. Place a small piece of butter into the center of each cored apple. Sprinkle the brown sugar and ground cinnamon evenly over the tops of the apples, allowing some to fall into the centers.
3. Pour the apple juice into the bottom of the slow cooker around the base of the apples. Cover and cook on low heat for 3 to 4 hours, or until the apples are tender but still hold their shape.

Contains: milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

210

Protein

0.5 g

Carbohydrates

48 g

Fat

4 g

Fiber

5 g

Sugar

38 g

Sodium

15 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.