Pour this 1 mixture over raw apples into a slow cooker for a homestyle finish you’ll want again and again

For picky eaters, you can peel the apples extra carefully and dice them very small so they almost melt into the cake, making the texture softer and less chunky. If you don’t have Honeycrisp apples, use another firm, sweet variety like Gala or Fuji. To make it a little lighter, swap half of the oil for unsweetened applesauce. For a nuttier version, sprinkle 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts over the apples before pouring the batter on top. If your family loves extra spice, add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon along with the nutmeg. For a caramel twist, drizzle 1/4 cup caramel sauce over the warm cake just before serving. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20–30 seconds for an easy after-school snack or cozy breakfast.