When the evenings start to feel a little cooler and everybody is ready for something sweet after supper, this easy slow cooker dessert is such a comforting treat to have in your back pocket. These August Evening Sweets turn simple soft caramel squares, chopped apples, and yellow cake mix into a warm, gooey dessert that tastes a little like a caramel apple cobbler. It is the kind of recipe that feels special without asking much from the cook, which makes it perfect for busy family weekends or a relaxed get-together with friends.
Serve this warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of whipped topping so it melts right into the caramel pockets. If you want to make dessert feel extra cozy, add a mug of coffee, hot cider, or cold milk on the side. For a simple family dessert table, I also like to set out a few toasted pecans so everyone can sprinkle on their own crunchy topping.
3-Ingredient Slow Cooker August Evening Sweets
Servings: 8
Ingredients
2 (21-ounce) cans apple pie filling
1 (15.25-ounce) box yellow cake mix
24 unwrapped soft caramel squares
Directions
1. Lightly coat the inside of a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick spray or a little butter. Spread the unwrapped caramel squares across the bottom of the slow cooker in an even layer.
2. Spoon the apple pie filling over the caramels and spread it gently so the fruit covers the bottom evenly.
3. Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the apple layer, covering as much of the surface as you can without stirring.
4. Cover and cook on low for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the apples are bubbly and the caramel has melted into the fruit. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving so the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Scoop the dessert into bowls and serve warm on its own or with vanilla ice cream if you like.
Variations & Tips
For picky eaters: If your family prefers a smoother texture, chop the apple slices from the pie filling into smaller pieces before adding them to the slow cooker. That makes each spoonful a little easier for younger kids and picky eaters to enjoy.
Make it extra cozy: A light sprinkle of cinnamon or apple pie spice over the filling adds a warm flavor that fits late-summer evenings so nicely. It is not necessary, but it makes the house smell wonderful while dessert cooks.
Try a different fruit: This same easy method works well with peach pie filling or cherry pie filling when you want a different flavor. The caramel is especially lovely with peaches for an end-of-summer twist.
Watch the cook time: Slow cookers can vary quite a bit, so check near the earlier end of the cooking range. You want hot, bubbly fruit and melted caramel, but you do not want the edges to overcook.
Serving tip: This dessert is best warm the day it is made, when the caramel is soft and gooey. If you have leftovers, reheat individual portions in the microwave for a few seconds to bring that lovely texture back.