Are you craving a comforting dessert that tastes like a warm hug on a chilly evening? Look no further than this irresistible Apple Cobbler with a homemade pie crust. This recipe is surprisingly easy, even for beginner bakers, and delivers a delicious combination of sweet apples and a buttery, flaky crust. It's the perfect ending to any meal and a wonderful treat for sharing with friends and family. This recipe is a great example of easy recipes and homemade cooking at its finest. Get ready to experience the ultimate in delicious dishes!
Ingredients:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- ½ cup ice water
Instructions:
Making the Apple Filling:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
- Pour the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish. Dot the top with the butter pieces.
Making the Pie Crust:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Don't overmix.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 12-inch circle.
Assembling and Baking the Cobbler:
- Carefully place the pie crust over the apple filling. You can either fold the edges over or leave them to create a rustic look. Use a fork to crimp the edges if desired.
- Cut several slits in the top of the crust to allow steam to escape.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Let the cobbler cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Tips for the Best Apple Cobbler:
- For a crispier crust, brush the top with a little milk or cream before baking.
- Don't overmix the pie crust dough, as this can make it tough.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of apples for varying levels of sweetness and tartness.
- If you prefer a quicker option, use a store-bought pie crust.
Variations:
- Spiced Apple Cobbler: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger to the apple filling for an extra layer of warmth.
- Cranberry Apple Cobbler: Add ½ cup of fresh or frozen cranberries to the apple filling for a delightful tartness.
- Streusel Topping: For a more crumbly topping, make a streusel topping by combining ½ cup flour, ½ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup oats, and ¼ cup melted butter. Sprinkle over the apples before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Fat: 15-20g Saturated Fat: 8-12g Carbohydrates: 50-60g Sugar: 30-40g Protein: 4-5g
This recipe offers a delicious and easy way to enjoy a classic dessert. It's perfect for quick dinner ideas and a wonderful addition to your repertoire of healthy meals. The comforting flavors and simple preparation make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Enjoy!