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Classic Apple Cobbler with Spiced Apple Filling and Fluffy Topping Recipe

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4.3 from 12 reviews

This classic Apple Cobbler recipe features tender, cinnamon-spiced apples cooked to perfection under a soft, buttery topping. The apples are pre-cooked on the stovetop with brown sugar, apple cider, and warm spices to create a luscious filling that is thickened and flavorful. The topping resembles a soft cookie dough, baked golden brown for a delightful contrast. Perfectly baked at 350°F, this comforting dessert is delicious served warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, making it a fantastic treat for gatherings or cozy nights.

Ingredients

Apple Filling

  • 7 large Apples, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2 inch pieces
  • 4 Tablespoons Butter
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar
  • 1/2 cup Apple Cider
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • 1 Lemon, zested and juiced

Topping

  • 1/2 cup Butter (8 Tablespoons), melted
  • 3/4 cup Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • 1 cup plus 2 Tablespoons Flour
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt (use only 1/4 teaspoon if using salted butter)
  • 2 Tablespoons Heavy Cream or Buttermilk

Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

  • 1 Tablespoon Sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Prepare a 9 x 13 inch baking pan or a tart pan by spraying it with non-stick cooking spray or buttering it thoroughly to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare Apple Filling: Peel, core, and cut the apples into 1/2 inch pieces. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add the apples, brown sugar, apple cider, lemon zest, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook the mixture for 12-14 minutes, stirring often, until the apples are slightly softened and the liquid has thickened. If the filling is too thin, whisk in 2 teaspoons of cornstarch to achieve the desired thickness. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste. Pour the cooked apple filling evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  3. Make the Topping: In a medium bowl, melt 1/2 cup (8 tablespoons) of butter. Stir in the sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Add the flour, baking powder, and salt to the mixture. Then stir in the heavy cream or buttermilk (2 tablespoons) until the batter resembles a soft cookie dough consistency.
  4. Assemble Cobbler: Drop large dollops of the dough over the apple filling. You can keep the topping in big dollops for a rustic look or gently flatten them. To have the apples peek through, leave the dollops as is. Sprinkle generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture made by combining 1 tablespoon sugar and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon.
  5. Bake: Place the cobbler in the preheated oven and bake for 33-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple juices are bubbling actively around the edges.
  6. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Notes

  • Pre-cooking the apples ensures the filling thickens properly and the flavors meld beautifully.
  • If the filling is too watery after cooking, adding cornstarch helps thicken it without altering flavor.
  • Adjust the cinnamon sugar topping amount to taste for a sweeter or spicier crust.
  • For extra texture, add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the topping dough.
  • Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best tang and brightness.
  • Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to complement the warm spiced apples.
  • Butter or non-stick spray ensures easy removal and prevents sticking in the baking pan.