Baked apples in a slow cooker Crock Pot

Baked Apples in a Slow Cooker Crock Pot

I propose a delicious and comforting recipe for baked apples, prepared in a slow cooker, that will fill your home with enticing aromas. This recipe is perfect for cool evenings when you need a simple yet flavorful dessert. Additionally, cooking in a slow cooker will provide a soft and juicy texture to the apples, making them an irresistible dessert!

Total preparation time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4 large apples, preferably organic (choose your favorite apples, such as Granny Smith for a tart taste or Fuji for a sweet flavor)
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (you can also use brown sugar for a more caramelized taste)
- 4 walnuts, chopped (pecans or walnuts are excellent)
- 25 g raisins (golden raisins add a touch of sweetness)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (for a hint of spice and flavor)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the apples well under cold water. It's important to choose organic apples, as the skin is edible and can add extra nutrients and flavor. After washing, cut off the top of each apple (about 1-2 cm) and use a small spoon to scoop out the seeds. Be careful not to break the apples!

2. Making the filling: In a bowl, mix the sugar, chopped walnuts, raisins, and ground ginger. This mixture will give the apples a crunchy texture and a sweet-tart flavor. If you prefer a more intense ginger flavor, you can add a bit of freshly grated ginger instead of the powdered kind.

3. Filling the apples: Fill each apple with the filling mixture, making sure it is well packed. This will help keep the apples juicy during cooking.

4. Arranging in the slow cooker: Place the apples in the slow cooker, taking care not to touch the sides. This is an important technique as it allows for even heat circulation, ensuring uniform baking. Add 50 ml of water to the slow cooker pot to prevent the apples from sticking and to create a delicious steam that will help cook them.

5. Cooking: Put the lid on the slow cooker and set it to High for 2 hours. During this time, the apples will become tender, and the filling will acquire a caramelized texture. If you have time, you can opt for the Low setting, letting them cook for 4 hours.

6. Serving: Once the apples are ready, carefully remove them from the slow cooker and place them on plates. They pair perfectly with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top can add an extra aromatic touch, turning the dessert into an unforgettable delicacy.

Practical tip: If you want to add a hint of freshness, you can add a few slices of lemon to the water in the slow cooker. The acidity of the lemon will balance the sweetness of the apples and enhance the flavors.

Possible variations: You can experiment with different fruits, such as pears or peaches, using the same technique. By replacing the nuts with almonds or hazelnuts, you can add another flavor and texture. You can also add spices like cardamom or nutmeg to customize the flavors.

Nutrition and calories: This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and nuts add healthy fats and protein. A serving contains approximately 180 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use apples of other varieties? Yes, you can use any variety of apples you prefer, but those that hold up well to baking are the most suitable.
- How can I store leftovers? Baked apples store well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days.
- What can I do with the leftovers? You can turn the leftovers into a delicious sauce for pancakes or add them to your morning yogurt for a healthy breakfast.

This slow cooker baked apple recipe is not just a quick and simple dessert, but also a wonderful way to enjoy the taste of fresh apples in a comforting form. So, allow yourself to indulge in this warm dessert, paired with vanilla ice cream, and enjoy every bite!