Description

If there’s one dessert that evokes comfort and joy, it’s apple pie. Now, imagine a version that’s even easier to prepare, yet equally satisfying—welcome to the Slow Cooker Layered Apple Cake. This recipe combines the timeless appeal of apple pie with the convenience of slow cooking, making it a perfect treat for busy weekdays, festive holidays, or even Pi Day (March 14). With its reduced sugar content, this dessert is not only delicious but also guilt-free, allowing you to indulge without compromise.

This Slow Cooker Layered Apple Cake offers all the flavors of a classic apple pie, but with a simpler preparation method. The natural sweetness of apples, complemented by a touch of apple juice and brown sugar, creates a delectable treat that’s both wholesome and comforting. Enhanced with vanilla extract and a medley of fall spices, this dessert brings the essence of autumn to your table any time of year. And because it’s made in the slow cooker, it’s virtually hands-off, freeing you up to focus on other tasks or simply relax.

Ingredients

• 4 Red Delicious apples, cored and cut into ¼-inch rings
• 4 Granny Smith apples, cored and cut into ¼-inch rings
• 1 cup apple juice
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 pint vanilla ice cream
• Optional: Cinnamon graham cracker crumbles for garnish

Preparation Method

Prepare the Apples: Begin by preparing your apples. Core them and cut them into ¼-inch rings. Layer these apple rings in the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker, alternating between Red Delicious and Granny Smith varieties to balance sweetness and tartness.

Add Liquids and Flavorings: Pour the apple juice evenly over the apples. Add the vanilla extract and place small dollops of butter on top. These ingredients will infuse the apples with moisture and flavor, ensuring a tender and flavorful result.

Mix Spices: In a small mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves. This spice mixture is key to achieving that warm, pie-like flavor.

Spice It Up: Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the apples in the slow cooker. The combination of spices will blend into the apple layers as they cook, creating a wonderfully aromatic and flavorful dish.

Cook and Serve: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on high for 2 hours. The result will be a sweet, spiced apple concoction that’s ready to be enjoyed. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic, comforting dessert experience.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip: For an extra layer of crunch and flavor, crumble some cinnamon graham crackers over the top just before serving. This simple addition will give your dessert a delightful texture contrast and enhance the overall taste.

The Slow Cooker Layered Apple Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a heartwarming treat that brings comfort and joy to any occasion. With its rich, spiced apple layers and the creamy addition of vanilla ice cream, it’s a dessert that pleases the palate and soothes the soul. The ease of preparation and reduced sugar content make it a perfect choice for both everyday indulgence and special gatherings. So next time you’re craving a taste of apple pie without the fuss, turn to this simple slow cooker recipe and savor a slice of homemade comfort.