This apple cobbler is a warm, golden-brown baked dessert that embodies comfort and nostalgia. With tender chunks of apple nestled beneath a lightly crisp, buttery topping, it strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tart. The aroma of cinnamon and baked fruit fills the kitchen, making it an inviting centerpiece for family gatherings or cozy evenings. Its rustic charm lies in its simplicity—no elaborate techniques, just wholesome ingredients layered together to create a dish that feels both indulgent and homey. The cobbler’s appeal is in its versatility: it can be enjoyed plain, paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or drizzled with cream for added richness.
INGREDIENTS
- 6 medium apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 stick unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Juice of half a lemon
INSTRUCTION
- Prepare the apples: Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing the apples into bite-sized pieces. Toss them with lemon juice, half of the sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This step enhances their flavor and prevents browning.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the butter in a rectangular glass baking dish and allow it to melt in the oven while it preheats. This creates a rich base for the cobbler.
- Mix the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, the remaining sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. The batter should be pourable but not too thin.
- Layer the dish: Remove the baking dish with melted butter from the oven. Pour the batter directly over the butter without stirring. Spread the apples evenly on top of the batter. As it bakes, the batter will rise around the fruit, creating a cobbled effect.
- Bake to perfection: Place the dish back in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the batter comes out clean. The apples should be tender, and the topping slightly crisp.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cobbler to cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors meld and makes slicing easier.
SERVINGS
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or small gatherings.
NOTE
The beauty of this cobbler lies in its adaptability. You can experiment with different apple varieties—tart Granny Smiths for a sharper flavor or sweeter Honeycrisps for a mellow profile. If you prefer a richer dessert, sprinkle a handful of brown sugar over the apples before baking to create a caramelized finish. For added texture, a light scattering of chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts can be incorporated into the topping.
This dish is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, when the contrast between the tender fruit and crisp topping is most pronounced. Pairing it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream elevates the experience, but it remains delightful on its own. The cobbler also reheats well, making it a practical choice for preparing ahead of time.
Beyond its flavor, apple cobbler carries a sense of tradition. It’s a dessert that feels timeless, often passed down through generations, yet always open to personal touches. Whether served at a festive table or enjoyed quietly with a cup of tea, it embodies the essence of comfort food—simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary.