This Biscuit-Topped Apple Cobbler is a comforting and simple apple dessert recipe perfect for any occasion. You’ll love the tender, spiced apples bubbling under a golden, fluffy biscuit topping. This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Apples: Use firm, tart-sweet apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the best flavor and texture in this apple dessert.
- Flour: All-purpose flour works perfectly for both the filling and biscuits.
- Butter: Unsalted cold butter is essential for flaky biscuits.
- Milk: Any kind of milk (dairy or non-dairy) will do for the biscuits.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the apples, brown sugar adds a deeper caramel note.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 cups sliced apples (about 6-8 medium apples)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Biscuit Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 3/4 cup milk (plus 1 tablespoon for brushing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
- Tools: 9×13 inch baking dish, mixing bowls
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Apples
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss everything gently until the apples are well coated. Pour the apple mixture into your 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside. This is the delicious base for your apple dessert.
2. Make the Biscuit Dough
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the 1 1/2 cups flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the cold butter pieces to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Milk to Biscuits
Gradually add 3/4 cup milk to the flour and butter mixture. Stir gently with a fork until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your biscuits tough.
4. Top the Cobbler
Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough evenly over the apple filling in the baking dish. You don’t need to be precise; rustic is good! Brush the tops of the biscuits with the remaining 1 tablespoon of milk for a golden finish.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the apple filling is bubbly and the biscuit topping is golden brown and cooked through. Let your amazing apple dessert cool slightly before serving.
Variation Ideas
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the apple filling for more warmth.
- Oatmeal Crumble: For a different texture, consider adding 1/4 cup rolled oats to your biscuit topping mixture.
- Berry Boost: Mix in 1 cup of fresh or frozen berries (like blueberries or raspberries) with the apples for a colorful twist on this apple dessert.
- Caramel Drizzle: Serve with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce for an extra decadent touch.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover Biscuit-Topped Apple Cobbler covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave or place the entire dish (covered with foil) in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What kind of apples are best for cobbler?
A: Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples are excellent choices as they hold their shape and offer a good balance of sweetness and tartness, making for a superb apple dessert.
Q: Can I make this apple dessert ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the apple filling and store it in the refrigerator. Make the biscuit topping just before baking for the best texture.
Q: How do I know when the cobbler is done baking?
A: The filling should be visibly bubbling around the edges, and the biscuit topping should be golden brown and feel firm to the touch.
Q: Can I use self-rising flour for the biscuits?
A: If using self-rising flour, omit the baking powder, baking soda, and salt from the biscuit topping ingredients.
Q: What should I serve with this apple dessert?
A: It’s wonderful on its own, but a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes it even more special.
Q: My biscuits came out tough. What did I do wrong?
A: Overmixing the biscuit dough is the most common cause of tough biscuits. Mix just until combined.