Can I use a different variety of apples for this cobbler?

Absolutely! While granny smith apples are wonderfully tart and hold their shape, feel free to experiment with honeycrisp, fuji, jonagold, or a mix for a more complex flavor.

How do I know when the cobbler is done?

The topping should be deeply golden, and you should see the fruit filling bubbling up around the edges. If the topping still looks pale after an hour, add a few more minutes—oven temperatures can vary.

Can I make the cobbler batter ahead of time?

For best results, assemble the batter just before baking so the baking powder stays active and the cold butter stays chilled. If you need to prep ahead, slice your apples and toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.

Is it possible to make this dessert vegan?

Yes! Swap the butter for vegan butter or coconut oil, and use a plant-based milk instead of half and half. Make sure your sugar is vegan too.

Old Fashioned Apple Cobbler Recipe

Description

This Old Fashioned Apple Cobbler recipe combines tart granny smith apples with a sweet spiced filling and a buttery, rustic biscuit topping. Baked to golden perfection, it’s the ultimate comforting dessert for fall or any time you crave a classic homemade treat.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Apple Filling

4 to 5 pounds granny smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cobbler Batter

2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cold butter, diced
1 cup half and half

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13 inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and set aside.
Make Apple Filling: In a medium-size mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Toss until all apple slices are evenly coated. Spread the apple mixture in an even layer in the prepared pan.
Prepare Cobbler Batter: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the flour, powdered sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the diced cold butter and use a pastry cutter to cut it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse meal. Alternatively, pulse all ingredients together in a food processor.
Add Liquid: Pour the half and half into the dry mixture and stir until a thick batter forms. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until incorporated.
Assemble Cobbler: Scoop the batter in large clumps or dollops over the apple filling. You don’t need to cover the apples completely; the rustic look is traditional for cobbler.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling.
Cool and Serve: Remove the cobbler from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, optionally with ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes

For best flavor, use tart apples like Granny Smith, but you can substitute other baking apples if preferred.
Cobbler is delicious served fresh, but can be reheated in the oven or microwave if making ahead.
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra indulgent dessert.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (1/8th of recipe)
Calories: 361 kcal
Sugar: 24g
Sodium: 410mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 41mg