There’s something magical about a dessert that comes together with barely any effort yet tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. This 3 ingredient apple cobbler proves that comfort doesn’t have to be complicated. In this article, I’ll share my first experience making it, how to get it just right in the slow cooker, and tips for serving, storing, and customizing this sweet and simple classic.
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Why Simple Recipes Can Be the Most Comforting
Since that night, this 3 ingredient apple cobbler has become a regular in my kitchen, especially when I need a no-fuss dessert that still brings all the feels. Minimalist recipes like this don’t just save time; they free you up to focus on what matters most, sharing food with people you love.
I’ve learned that some of my most memorable meals, like this or my Nutritious Apple Oat Breakfast Cake, didn’t need a long ingredient list or fancy plating. They just needed warmth, flavor, and heart.
And if you’re an apple dessert lover like me, don’t miss these chewy Apple Pie Oatmeal Cookies, another cozy classic that brings all the comfort with minimal effort.
3 Ingredient Apple Cobbler (Slow Cooker Apple Cobbler)
Equipment
- 6-quart slow cooker
- Mixing bowl (for butter, if melting in microwave)
- Measuring cup (for butter)
- Spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 2 20 oz cans apple pie filling
- 1 box 15.25 oz spice cake mix (or yellow cake mix)
- 1/2 cup 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
Optional Add-ons:
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Caramel sauce for drizzling
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving
Instructions
- Lightly grease the insert of a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Pour the apple pie filling into the bottom and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix over the apple layer. Do not stir.
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix. Try to cover as much of the surface as possible.
- Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or high for 2-2.5 hours, until the top is golden brown and the edges begin to crisp.
- Optional: Remove the lid during the last 20 minutes to reduce moisture and create a slightly crisp top.
- Let rest for 10 minutes. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel if desired.
Notes
- Calories: 360
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 56g
- Sugar: 32g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 2g
How to Make 3 Ingredient Apple Cobbler
There’s something almost magical about a slow cooker apple cobbler. It transforms three simple pantry items into a warm, bubbling dessert that tastes like fall in a bowl. Let’s dive into exactly what you need and how to pull it off with zero fuss.
Ingredients You Already Have
You won’t need to make a grocery run for this one. The beauty of this slow cooker apple cobbler lies in how familiar-and flexible-the ingredients are.
Apple Pie Filling
Start with two standard cans (usually 20-21 oz) of apple pie filling. It’s already spiced and sweetened, which gives the dish a rich apple flavor without any prep work. If you like a touch more spice, sprinkle a bit of ground cinnamon or nutmeg over the top before cooking.
Cake or Muffin Mix
This is your crust, and you’ve got options. A spice cake mix brings out the cozy autumn vibes, but a classic yellow cake mix or even cinnamon muffin mix works beautifully. I’ve had great results with Betty Crocker and Duncan Hines, whichever is on hand will do just fine.
Butter
You’ll need one stick of unsalted butter, melted. This gets drizzled over the top to create that golden, crisp cobbler topping we all crave. Don’t skimp here-it’s what gives the dish its comforting richness.
Optional Add-ons
Feeling fancy? Add a pinch of sea salt, a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, or a drizzle of caramel before serving. I sometimes serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or use it as a base for my Cheesecake Dessert Cups with Caramel Apple.
The Easiest Cooking Method: Slow Cooker Love
Here’s the best part, your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting.
- Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker insert.
- Pour in the apple pie filling and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the cake or muffin mix over the apples-no mixing needed.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the dry mix, making sure it’s covered as evenly as possible.
Set your slow cooker to low for 3-4 hours, or high for 2-2.5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the top looks golden and slightly crisp around the edges.
To avoid soggy spots, don’t stir during cooking. And for a slightly crispier top, crack the lid open slightly during the last 20 minutes to let excess moisture escape.
This slow cooker apple cobbler makes your home smell incredible-like you’ve been baking all day. It’s as low-effort as dessert gets, right up there with my favorite Apple Cinnamon Muffins with Crumb Topping, but with a gooey twist.
Serving Suggestions & Variations for Apple Cobbler in Crockpot
Once your apple cobbler in crockpot is hot, golden, and bubbling with sweet apple goodness, the only thing left is to dish it out and enjoy every spoonful. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just sneaking a late-night treat, here’s how to make the most of this humble dessert.
Best Ways to Serve Apple Cobbler
The moment you lift the lid of your slow cooker, you’re hit with the warm scent of baked apples and spiced cake. Trust me, it’s nearly impossible not to dig in right away.
Classic Style
Spoon the cobbler into shallow dessert bowls and top with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. Let the ice cream melt slightly over the warm topping and swirl into the gooey filling. It’s simple, nostalgic, and absolutely irresistible.
Next-Level Garnishes
Take it up a notch by drizzling a little warm caramel sauce over the ice cream. A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts adds crunch, while a dusting of cinnamon sugar gives it that bakery finish. This is also a great time to use flavored whipped cream or even a scoop of cinnamon ice cream if you’re feeling bold.
For Entertaining
When I’m serving guests, I love plating the cobbler in ramekins or small mason jars. It gives a rustic, personal feel that makes it even more special. Honestly, this dish is so cozy, it pairs beautifully with anything from a mug of cider to a hot toddy.
For another impressive fall dessert idea that looks harder than it is, try my Cozy Apple Pie Cheesecake Recipe. It’s always a hit with guests and feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Delicious Variations You Can Try
One of the best things about this crockpot apple cobbler recipe is how versatile it is. You can switch things up and still get that same cozy, comforting flavor.
Swap the Cake Mix
Spice cake mix gives you bold autumn flavor, but yellow, butter pecan, or even vanilla cake mix all work great. If you want to add some crunch, stir in a handful of oats or granola to the mix before cooking.
Use Fresh Apples
Got apples that need using? Peel and slice about 5-6 medium apples, toss them with a little sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch, and layer them in place of the canned filling. It’ll take a little longer to cook (around 4 hours on low), but the texture and flavor are worth it.
Make It Boozy
For grown-up flair, drizzle a tablespoon of bourbon or spiced rum over the apple filling before adding the cake mix. It adds depth and a little something special to the flavor profile.
Go Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free
Swap in a gluten-free cake mix and use plant-based butter for a dessert everyone can enjoy.
This dish is just as adaptable as it is delicious. It’s a close cousin to my Slow Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake, which also relies on minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheat Tips
This dessert stores surprisingly well, and reheats even better.
Make-Ahead
Assemble everything in your slow cooker insert the night before. Cover and refrigerate. When ready, set it straight in the base and cook as directed (add an extra 15-20 minutes to account for the chill).
Refrigerating Leftovers
Cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Cobbler keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Freezing
Portion it into single-serve containers and freeze for up to 2 months. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven.
Reheating Tips
Microwave individual servings in 30-second bursts until hot, or reheat larger portions in the oven at 300°F until warmed through. A splash of milk or cream helps revive the texture.
It’s a great dish to batch cook, especially alongside my Crock Pot Pumpkin Peanut Butter Chicken Soup if you’re prepping ahead for a cozy week of meals. And if you’re all about crock pot comfort food, you’ll also love my Easy Chicken Pot Pie Crock Pot Recipes, just like this dessert, they deliver big flavor with little effort.
FAQs-Answering Your Questions (PAA)
Can you make apple cobbler with just 3 ingredients?
Yes, and it’s shockingly good! All you need is canned apple pie filling, boxed cake mix or muffin mix, and melted butter. These three simple ingredients bake into a bubbling, golden cobbler in just a few hours using your slow cooker.
What is the best way to cook apple cobbler in a slow cooker?
Layer the ingredients directly in a greased slow cooker, pie filling on the bottom, dry cake mix over top, then drizzle with melted butter. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for about 2 hours. Don’t stir! Keeping the layers separate is key to getting a perfect crust on top.
How long does it take to make apple cobbler in a crock pot?
Most versions take about 2-4 hours depending on the setting. High heat gets it done faster (around 2 hours), but for a more even, gooey result, low for 3-4 hours is ideal. Keep the lid closed until the last 15-20 minutes to avoid steam buildup and soggy topping.
Can I use canned apple pie filling for apple cobbler?
Absolutely. In fact, it’s what makes this a 3-ingredient recipe! Canned pie filling already has sugar, spices, and thickeners, so you save loads of prep time. It’s a pantry staple that works perfectly in both traditional and slow cooker cobblers.
There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a warm, homemade dessert using what you already have in your pantry. This 3 ingredient apple cobbler recipe proves you don’t need a long list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen to deliver something sweet, nostalgic, and heartwarming.
It’s simple, it’s soulful, and most importantly, it brings people together. Whether you’re hosting guests, feeding your family, or just treating yourself on a quiet night in, this crock pot apple cobbler is a sure-fire comfort classic.
So plug in that slow cooker, grab a spoon, and dig into a dessert that’s as effortless as it is unforgettable.
