This 4-ingredient slow cooker bourbon peach crisp is the kind of low-effort dessert that saves the day when you need something cozy, crowd-pleasing, and just a little special. It has that old-school potluck charm with juicy fresh peaches, a buttery cake-like topping, and warm bourbon flavor that makes the whole kitchen smell amazing. I love recipes like this during busy school nights and fall gatherings because you can toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work while you handle everything else.
Serve this warm with big scoops of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream so it melts right into the peach filling. If you're bringing it to a potluck, it pairs nicely with coffee after dinner, and for a backyard gathering it also goes really well with grilled food since the sweet, buttery topping is such a nice contrast to smoky mains.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Bourbon Peach Crisp using Fresh Sliced Peaches
Servings: 8
Ingredients
6 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced
Directions
1. Lightly grease the inside of a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Add the sliced peaches and pour the bourbon over them, tossing gently to coat.
2. Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the peaches without stirring, then drizzle the melted butter as evenly as possible over the top.
3. Cover and cook on high for 2 to 2 1/2 hours or on low for 4 hours, until the peaches are bubbling and the top is golden around the edges.
4. Let the crisp rest uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes before serving so the filling thickens slightly. Spoon into bowls and serve warm.
Variations & Tips
Make it non-alcoholic: Swap the bourbon for apple juice or peach nectar if you're serving a mixed crowd or just want the same cozy flavor without alcohol.
Add warm spice: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg works really well here if you want a more fall-style dessert. I usually do this when I’m making it for a cooler-weather potluck.
Use very ripe peaches: The best texture and flavor come from peaches that are ripe but not mushy. If they’re underripe, the filling won't get quite as juicy and soft.
Watch for dry spots: If you notice patches of dry cake mix partway through cooking, drizzle on a little extra melted butter. Slow cookers can heat differently, and this quick fix helps the topping turn out more evenly buttery.
Easy serving tip: This is one of those desserts that’s best served with a big spoon instead of trying to cut neat squares. Think gooey crisp instead of firm cake, and everybody will be happy.
