There’s something incredibly comforting about slow cooker desserts, isn’t there? It’s like a warm hug at the end of a long day! And let me tell you, my *slow cooker bloomin baked apples* are the epitome of cozy goodness. Picture this: tender apples, bursting with warm spices and sweet brown sugar, all melting together in a sticky, delicious bloom of flavor. This recipe is special to me because it reminds me of fall evenings spent with family, gathering around the table to share stories and laughter. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up—just pop everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you sip on some hot cider. Trust me, the aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples (I love using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for their firmness and tartness!)
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (this gives the apples that lovely caramel-like sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (the warm spice that makes everything cozy)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (adds a delightful warmth—don’t skip this one!)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (this melts over the apples, creating a luscious sauce)
- 1/2 cup raisins (for a little chewy sweetness that complements the apples)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work beautifully for that crunchy contrast)
How to Prepare Slow Cooker Bloomin Baked Apples
Alright, let’s dive into the wonderful world of making these incredible *slow cooker bloomin baked apples*! This is where the magic happens, and I promise, it’s so simple you’ll be amazed at how little effort it takes to achieve such deliciousness. Ready? Let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, grab your apples and give them a good rinse. Make sure they’re nice and clean before we get to the fun part!
- Next, using a sharp knife or an apple corer, carefully core each apple. You want to remove the seeds and create a little space for the sweet filling. Be gentle—don’t slice through the bottom!
- Now, in a mixing bowl, combine your brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This is where the aroma starts to build, and oh boy, does it smell good! Mix it up until it’s well combined.
- Time to fill those apples! Spoon the sugar mixture into each cored apple, packing it in nicely. Don’t worry if some spills over; that just adds to the flavor.
- Next, place each filled apple in your slow cooker, standing them upright. This is crucial for even cooking!
- Now, don’t forget the buttery goodness! Cut your unsalted butter into small pats and place one on top of each apple. Then sprinkle the raisins and nuts over the apples, allowing their flavors to mingle.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 4 hours. This is the hardest part—waiting! You’ll want to check for tenderness after 4 hours; they should be soft but still hold their shape.
- Once they’re cooked to perfection, serve them warm, maybe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for that extra indulgence!
And there you have it! With just a few simple steps, you’ve turned basic apples into a stunning dessert that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success
To make the absolute best *slow cooker bloomin baked apples*, here are my favorite tips! First, always opt for firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold up beautifully during cooking and have that perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. If you prefer a sweeter apple, just adjust the brown sugar a bit; taste testing is key! Oh, and don’t hesitate to experiment with the spices—adding a pinch of allspice or cloves can elevate the flavor profile even more!
Another little trick: if you want to amp up the texture, consider toasting your nuts before adding them. The crunch combined with the softness of the baked apples is simply divine. Lastly, keep an eye on the cooking time; every slow cooker is a bit different, so check for doneness around the 4-hour mark but don’t be afraid to let them go a little longer if needed. Happy cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Just core the apples, fill them, and let your slow cooker do the work while you relax!
- Deliciously Cozy Flavors: The combination of sweet brown sugar, warm spices, and melting butter creates a heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone, from kids to grandparents, will adore these sweet, tender apples, making it a perfect dessert for gatherings.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or adjust the spices to suit your taste—make this recipe truly your own!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a chilly night or a holiday feast, these apples bring warmth and joy to any table.
Nutritional Information
When you indulge in these delightful *slow cooker bloomin baked apples*, here’s what you can expect nutritionally per serving (1 apple): approximately 200 calories, with about 30g of sugar and 7g of fat. You’ll also get around 1g of protein and 3g of fiber, making these a sweet treat that’s not too heavy! Keep in mind, these values are just estimates based on standard ingredient brands, so they might vary a bit depending on what you use. Enjoy knowing you’re savoring a dessert that’s both comforting and relatively wholesome!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While I love Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for their perfect balance of tart and sweet, you can experiment with any firm apples you enjoy. Just remember to adjust the sugar if your apples are on the sweeter side.
How do I know when the apples are done cooking?
Check for tenderness around the 4-hour mark. The apples should be soft but still maintain their shape. If they need a little more time, don’t hesitate to let them cook longer—every slow cooker is a bit different!
Can I make these bloomin baked apples ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the apples and fill them, then cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just pop them in the slow cooker when you’re ready for that amazing aroma to fill your kitchen!
What’s the best way to serve these apples?
I love serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They’re also delightful with a sprinkle of extra nuts on top for added crunch!
Can I add more spices to enhance the flavor?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your spices. A pinch of allspice, cloves, or even a splash of vanilla extract can add a lovely twist to your *slow cooker bloomin baked apples*.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of these scrumptious *slow cooker bloomin baked apples*, storing them is super easy! Just let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply pop them in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or a bit more butter to keep them moist and delicious.
Oh, and if you want to maintain that delightful texture, consider reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This way, they’ll be warm and cozy, just like when they first came out of the slow cooker. Enjoy every last bite!
Serving Suggestions
To take your *slow cooker bloomin baked apples* to the next level, consider serving them alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The coolness of the ice cream perfectly contrasts with the warm, spiced apples, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds! For a bit of crunch, sprinkle some extra chopped nuts or granola on top. You could also pair these apples with a slice of warm pie or a buttery biscuit for a truly comforting dessert spread. Enjoy the cozy vibes!
Print
Slow Cooker Bloomin Baked Apples: 7 Cozy Comforts Await
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dessert made with apples baked to perfection in a slow cooker, featuring a bloom of spices and sweetness.
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts
Instructions
- Core the apples and place them in the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Fill each apple with the sugar mixture.
- Top each apple with butter, raisins, and nuts.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
- Check for tenderness and serve warm.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
- Adjust sugar based on apple sweetness.
- Serve with ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 apple
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: slow cooker bloomin baked apples
