Crock Pot Apple Crisp

For this slow cooker dump dessert, all you need is four ingredients: apple pie filling, caramel sauce, yellow cake mix, and butter. Plus, you don’t need to heat the oven because the slow cooker does all the work! The cake mix turns into a buttery, golden topping over the cinnamon apples, and a quick paper towel trick makes sure it’s nice and crispy. Finish off by serving this dessert warm with some vanilla ice cream, and that’s all there is to it.

Why the Slow Cooker Wins Here

I proudly refer to myself as a lazy cook. The less ingredients, the better, but I won’t skimp on flavor. This apple crisp meets all criteria. It takes less than five minutes to throw together, does all the cooking on its own, and tastes like you spent a lot of time on it. As an Iowa resident, I prefer not to turn on my oven during the summer months. Instead, I use my crock pot for dessert and this recipe is at the top of my dessert rotation.

Serving Suggestions

Vanilla ice cream — the classic; warm crisp + cold ice cream is the combination
Cool Whip or whipped cream — lighter than ice cream, equally good
Extra caramel drizzle on top — lean into the caramel apple flavor

Storage and Reheating

After it’s cooled, re-cover the insert and put it in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. When it’s time to reheat, scoop some out into a bowl and microwave it for about 45 to 60 seconds, then add some fresh ice cream. The topping will get softer in the fridge, so if you want the crispiest topping, make sure to use the broil trick from day one.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the topping crispy?

Let’s talk about two key points. The first is the paper towel under the lid. This is essential and very much not optional when it comes to texture. The paper towel absorbs all the condensation that would drip onto the toppings and make them soggy. The second key point is the 1-2 minute broil after cooking. It is a mistake to skip the broil because the toppings will be soft and set. Broiling gives you that extra-golden, slightly crunchy topping. Don’t skip either step.

Does this have oats?

No — oat are not included, this is yellow cake mix. If you’d like to use oats, feel free to add 1/2 cup of quick oats underneath the cake mix if you want a more traditional crisp texture. However, the cake mix version is really quite yummy on its own and I’ve never thought it was lacking.

Can I use fresh apples instead of canned filling?

Yes. Peel and slice 6-8 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) and mix with 1/2 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Because fresh apples release more liquid, the paper towel trick becomes more vital. Depending on the amount of liquid released, you may need to add 30-60 more minutes of cook time on high. If you have the time, fresh apples are brighter tasting, but canned apples are easier and more consistent.

Can I leave out the caramel sauce?

Absolutely, and it’s still good. You get a classic apple crisp flavor rather than a caramel apple. If you want just a hint without all of the sweetness, try a couple of tablespoons instead of the full amount. I’d recommend doing caramel at least once before skipping it – it really makes a big difference.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Spice cake mix is the best option. It has a warm cinnamon and clove flavor that naturally complements the apple filling. Butter pecan works as well, and adds a nutty richness. They are both worth a shot. Yellow is the most neutral and works with any topping; spice is my personal preference.

Is this the same as a dump cake?

You do the same thing here — layer, cook, and you’re finished. It’s something in the middle of a dump cake and a regular apple crisp. The topping is drier and more crumbly than dump cakes, which I prefer. Whatever you call it, it goes quick.

Related Recipes

Crockpot Lava Cake — another easy crock pot dessert with a wow factor
Easy 3-Ingredient Strawberry Dip — quick dessert dip for fruit
Funeral Potatoes — if you’re making a full slow cooker spread, this is a crowd-pleaser side
Crockpot Ravioli Casserole — another hands-off crock pot dinner to pair with this dessert

Recipe

Ingredients

2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling
1/4 to 1/2 cup caramel ice cream topping (such as Smucker’s)
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (dry, from the box)
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
Vanilla ice cream or Cool Whip for serving

Instructions

Spray the inside of a 4- to 6-quart crock pot with cooking spray.
Pour both cans of apple pie filling into the bottom. Spread evenly.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple filling.
Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the top. Do not stir.
Drizzle melted butter evenly over the cake mix, covering as much of the surface as possible.
Lay 1 to 2 paper towels across the top of the crock pot. Place the lid on top of the paper towels.
Cook on high for 1.5 to 2 hours or low for 3 to 4 hours, until the topping is set and the edges are golden.
Optional: broil the top on low for 1 to 2 minutes for extra crispiness. Watch closely.
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or Cool Whip.