Apple Butterscotch Crisp (Slow Cooker Dessert)

Summary:
Celebrate cozy autumn evenings with Apple Butterscotch Crisp, a slow cooker dessert that combines tender, spiced apples with a crunchy, golden topping and sweet butterscotch drizzle. This effortless dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings, weekend treats, or any time you crave a warm, comforting sweet dish.

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Ingredients

For the Apple Filling:

• 6 cups peeled and sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Butterscotch Topping:

• ¾ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup butterscotch chips

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Instructions

1. Prepare Apples: In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and lemon juice.
2. Assemble in Slow Cooker: Transfer apples to the slow cooker.
3. Make Topping: In a separate bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, melted butter, and butterscotch chips. Stir until crumbly.
4. Top Apples: Sprinkle the butterscotch topping evenly over the apple mixture.
5. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or until apples are tender and topping is golden.
6. Serve: Spoon into bowls and serve warm, optionally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

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Tips for Perfect Apple Butterscotch Crisp

• Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to prevent mushy texture.
• Avoid lifting the lid too often while cooking; steam is essential for tender apples.
• Mix butterscotch chips carefully to prevent them from melting into the topping entirely.

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Variations

• Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping.
• Spiced Up: Include ¼ tsp cloves or ginger for deeper autumnal flavor.
• Caramel Twist: Drizzle caramel sauce over each serving before adding ice cream.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute oats and flour with a gluten-free blend.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve in individual bowls for holiday desserts or family gatherings.
• Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent finish.
• Ideal for weekend brunches or cozy evenings by the fire.

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Fun Facts / Cultural Context

Apple crisps originated in North America as a simple way to enjoy baked apples with a crunchy topping. Adding butterscotch introduces a richer, deeper flavor, reminiscent of traditional English sweets. Using a slow cooker modernizes the classic dessert, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly without turning on the oven.

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Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in the microwave or in a low oven to preserve topping texture.
• Crisp topping can be refreshed by broiling briefly if it softens in the fridge.

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Nutritional Highlights (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 120mg