Easy Apple Cobbler With Fresh Apples has eight ingredients, in all. This recipe is a follow-up to our Crisp Tender Apple Crumb Pie. And it’s very easy to make. Not only is this the fastest and easiest Apple Cobbler recipe I’ve ever tried, but it’s also incredibly delicious. Easy Apple Cobbler With Fresh Apples is a classic recipe that everyone needs in their recipe box.
If you’ve never tried an easy apple cobbler recipe, then there are lots of things you’re missing out on. This amazingly good dessert is so simple to make, and it can be used with a variety of baking styles. Nearly every family has their own special recipe that they proudly use to make this tasty treat. Find out the health benefits of apples below.
Growing up my mom had always made Apple Cobbler in the Autumn by peeling and slicing Granny Smith Apples. She’d then build layers in a large casserole pan and sprinkle the top with sugar, cinnamon, and apples. The result was the perfect fall dessert. If you’re looking to add a twist to your seasonal menu, give this dessert recipe a try. In this article, you will learn how to make apple cobbler.
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Easy Apple Cobbler With Fresh Apples
Usher in the fall season with a warm pan of (almost too) easy apple cobbler. For this simple and delicious apple dessert, peeling and slicing the fruit will be the bulk of your workload. The combination of brown sugar and apples yields an exceptionally gooey-rich filling that was made to team up with a buttery, golden crust and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. While we preferred hearty Granny Smith apples for the filling, you can certainly use a different variety if that’s what you have on hand. Regardless of the type of apple you pick, this warm and comforting cobbler is easy enough to make at the last minute and is always a welcome addition to the holiday dessert spread.
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Recipe Summary
Total: 50 mins
Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients
Ingredient Checklist
- 8 cups peeled and chopped Granny Smith apples (about 3 large apples)
- 1 ½ cups packed brown sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, divided
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (1 stick)
Directions
Instructions Checklist
- Step 1Preheat oven to 375º.
- Step 2Combine apples, brown sugar, 1/4 cup flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large bowl; set aside. Stir together remaining 3/4 cup flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Step 3 Add melted butter to apple mixture; toss. Spread the apple mixture in an even layer in a 7×11-inch glass or ceramic baking dish. Pour the flour mixture over the apples. Do not stir together.
- Step 4Bake at 375º for 40-45 minutes or until the cobbler is brown and bubbly.
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EASY APPLE COBBLER RECIPE
This easy apple cobbler recipe has a super fluffy, deliciously sweet topping. The apples are perfectly sweet and spiced. This is a simple, easy fall dessert. This recipe is a delicious Fall dessert made with cinnamon, apples, and brown sugar. Dump it all in one pan for the easiest cobbler ever! Perfect for parties and potlucks!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
This Easy Apple Cobbler recipe has a super fluffy, deliciously sweet topping. The apples are perfectly sweet and spiced. This is a simple, quick and easy dessert using the fresh fruit of fall! An absolute must is a scoop of ice cream on top.
I’m going to scream this from the rooftops but this is an Easy Apple Cobbler …that’s also fluffy and perfectly spiced and WAY easier than any apple pie you might not have time to make.
This season is all about pie, I will admit that. And of course, I have my favorite apple pie recipe that I think is a sure-fire winner. But let’s be honest, there’s not always time for pie crust-making, rolling out, crimping, etc.
I love a cobbler. But before we dive in. Let’s discuss semantics:
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CRISP VS. COBBLER?
Crisp, crumblers, cobblers. What’s the difference? They’re incredibly similar. Basically, they’re sliced, diced, or whole fruit at the base of a baking dish. Usually tossed with a thickener (either flour or corn starch or tapioca starch), sugar, lemon juice and other flavorings. And then they’re topped with something and then baked.
- Crisps – typically have something that makes it—yep—crisp on top. Think rolled oats, diced nuts, butter, and flour. Crisps are usually topped with a streusel-like topping.
- Cobbler – some cobblers are topped with drop biscuits, other times they’re topped with more looser batter.
- This is obviously the latter. And we’re not making drop biscuits, instead, we’re making a looser-type batter that resembles more of a pancake batter. But with a strong butter flavor. Lol.
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WHAT KIND OF APPLES FOR APPLE COBBLER
Whenever you bake an apple dessert–whether it be for an apple pie or apple cobbler–you want to bake apples. My favorite, easy-to-find apples are honey crisp apples and gala apples.
INGREDIENTS FOR APPLE COBBLER
This recipe is like a cake-like batter poured on top of thinly sliced apples that are tossed in spices and sugar. Here are the ingredients you’ll need for the filling:
- Apples. I used a combo of gala apples and honey crips. Any baking apples would be great!
- Brown Sugar + granulated sugar. These two sugars are great for this baked apple recipe. If you wanted to do ALL brown sugar, that works too.
- All-purpose flour. This thickens the baked apple mixture. They’re not super juicy so flour vs. cornstarch is what we’re using.
- Lemon juice. This adds a lovely tartness to this recipe. It balances out the warm spices and sweet apples.
- Warm spices. I like to use a balanced combination of ground cinnamon, ginger, cardamom and cloves. None of these spices are prominent; you don’t really notice any one flavor–instead, it’s a balanced flavor of spices.
- For the topping, you’ll be making a simple cake-like topping. You’ll need flour, vanilla, melted butter, some leavening, sugar and milk.
HOW TO MAKE APPLE COBBLER
What I love about this recipe is how simple it is to come together. Here’s how to make it:
- Mix the filling together. I used a mix of honey crisp and gala apples. Other apple combinations will totally work. And then add the brown sugar, sugar, flour, lemon juice, vanilla and spices.
- The topping couldn’t be simpler: In a medium bowl goes the flour, baking powder and salt, sugar, milk, melted butter and vanilla.
- And then the topping goes on top of the filling in a baking dish.
- In the oven and boom! done!
As much as I wish this was a one-bowl recipe, it’s a two-bowl recipe. But it’s simple, simple!
TIPS AND TRICKS FOR APPLE COBBLER
Here are some questions, I’m sure you’re asking yourself! Can you make a biscuit topping? Sure, but this isn’t that recipe per se so I would look for a recipe like that and use the apple-spiced portion of this recipe.
Would this topping work with a peach cobbler or other fresh fruit? Absolutely. Though just a heads up, you’ll need to use more of a thickening agent than flour (what we have here) because peaches and berries are juicier than apples. Berry fruit cobblers definitely have different ratios because of this.
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Apple Cobbler Ingredients
I love this recipe because after I get my apples, I almost always have the rest of the ingredients in my pantry and refrigerator. Get the full amounts of ingredients and instructions at the bottom of the post.
- Apples (see more below)
- Cinnamon
- Sugar
- Butter
- Flour
- Baking Powder
- Salt
- Milk
- Vanilla Extract
Picking out Apples
I love taking advantage of the variety of apples at Meijer by using a few different kinds. If you aren’t sure where to start, I would suggest buying a couple and figuring out which kinds you like.
I love the Gala and Granny Smith Apples in this recipe. They also happen to be our favorite for snacking. The Gala is just the right amount of sweetness, and the Granny Smith brings a nice tartness.
Peeling the Apples
The one step to this recipe that might hold people back from making it is the peeling of the apples. Pick up this apple peeler from Meijer when you get your apples. It peels, cores, and slices your apples for you!
It will make this recipe easier for you. Of course, if you can’t grab one, you can peel it the old-fashioned way.
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How to Make Apple Cobbler
Apple cobbler is delicious! But it only comes around during fall. I guess it’s the nature of any fruit. It’s only delicious during its season, then you wait until it’s in season again. Well, maybe I’m being too complacent. With this recipe, you could probably make it during summer too, but with apples out of season, it won’t be as delicious! In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to make an apple cobbler. It’s fast, it’s easy and it tastes great!
This cobbler recipe comes together with just a few steps to turn into the warm delicious dessert you’re dreaming of.
- Mix the apples, sugar, and cinnamon together in a large bowl. Set aside.
- Melt the butter and pour it into the bottom of a baking dish.
- Whisk together the sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract to make a batter.
- Pour the batter over the melted butter without stirring. Then pour the apples on top, again without stirring.
- Bake and enjoy with some vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce.
Many apple cobbler recipes are made with a biscuit-like topping, I wanted the same old-fashioned cake-like topping that I use in my other recipes! It has a slight crisp on the top and is soft in the center, and pairs so well with the sauce and tender apples in this recipe.
How’s Apple Cobbler different from Apple Crisp?
There is a difference between apple crisp and apple cobbler. Just like its name, apple crisp has a crispy crumble topping made with oats. The topping for this apple cobbler is a smooth batter that is poured on top of the apple filling and bakes more cake-like.
Which apples are best for baking?
Any baking apple will work great! I tend to prefer Granny Smith apples but I also like Gala apples, Honeycrisp, Golden Delicious, or any other tart apple.
To peel or not to peel?
Yes, I like to peel the apples for apple cobbler! The skin doesn’t break down during baking and can make for a tougher texture. (But you can leave the skin on if you want, and chop the apples into smaller cubes!) I use my Johnny Apple Peeler for this part because it does the work for me. It PEELS, CORES and SLICES the apple all at once!
4 steps to easy Apple Cobbler:
Make the Apple Filling: Stir together water, brown sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a large saucepan. Stir in apples. Cook over medium heat for 3-5 minutes.
Make the batter: In a large bowl mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and melted butter, just until combined.
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Pour into dish. Add apple mixture to your pan and pour the batter evenly on top. Sprinkle it lightly with cinnamon and it’s ready to bake!
Bake: at 350 degrees for about 38-40 minutes. Serve warm, with a scoop of ice cream, if desired.

Make Ahead and Freezer Instructions:
You could prepare the apple filling and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
You can also freeze the baked cobbler for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven before serving.
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How to Make a Homemade Apple Cobbler
Step 1: We’re going to start by making the filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine apples, sugar, and cornstarch (or flour). Mix to combine, making sure apple slices are evenly coated.
Step 2: Lay them down evenly onto the prepared baking dish and set that aside while you make the biscuit dough.
Step 3: Grab another mixing bowl and add flour, baking powder, sea salt, and baking soda. Whisk to combine and then add the cubes of cold butter.
Step 4: Use your hands to work the butter into the flour until coarse crumbs are formed.
Step 5: Pour in the buttermilk and stir until the dough is formed. Knead it slightly until it comes together.
Step 6: To make the cobbled road effect, we’re going to drop dollops of evenly divided dough on top of the layer of apples. Side by side, it doesn’t have to be perfect.
Step 7: Melt a bit of the butter in the microwave or stovetop and brush some over each piece of dough. This is what will help give them some color while baking.
Step 8: Bake for 45-50 minutes and allow them to sit and cool for 15 minutes. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and caramel drizzle and enjoy every bite!
Top Apple Cobbler Tips
- Grease your dish. I like using butter because it adds to the flavor of the filling. You need something to help it not stick as the sugars will do a good job to fight it!
- Thickening agent. Do not skip using either flour or cornstarch to thicken the apple filling. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a runny mess and a soupy cobbler.
- Cold butter is key. Keep it in the fridge until just before using it. Starting with cold butter means it’ll take longer for it to melt into the dough, keeping it nice and moist. If it melts too quickly, it’ll overbake and you’ll end up with a crispy topping without any fluff.
- Sticky dough. If you find yours is a little too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour.
Do I Have to Peel the Apples?
You don’t! I like to peel mine because it gives it a softer texture, and my kids prefer it that way. It’s not necessary and does give it more of a rustic look.
Can I Use a Different Fruit?
Absolutely! I encourage you to try this recipe using all kinds of different fruit. Peaches, apricots, all kinds of berries, rhubarb, you name it!
Health Benefits of Apples
Apple is a sweet, juicy fruit, which is used to make delicious pies, ice creams, and many other delectables. Its popularity over the years has made the apple one of the most commonly grown fruits in the world. The fruit of an apple tree is usually picked when it has reached a size that makes it easy the picking. Below are the health benefits of apples.
1. The Medium Apple’s Nutritional Facts
A medium apple is a simple but perfect snack loaded with nutrients. A three-inch diameter apple will yield about one and a half cups of sweet, yummy fruit chunks or slices. Nutrition-wise, it is clocking in at 95 calories, 25 grams of carbohydrates, a whopping 4 grams of fiber, 14% of the RDI (Reference Daily Intake) of Vitamin C, 6% of the RDI for Potassium, and 5% of the RDI for Vitamin K.
This little round fruit’s plant compounds offer major health benefits. Apples are also rich in polyphenols, resveratrol, and other healthy compounds to get your cholesterol levels, blood sugar, and fiber intake under control.
One study shows that adding apples to your diet regularly may contribute to a lower risk of mortality. Who doesn’t want to lower their risk of kicking the bucket too early?
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2. Apples Can Aid In Weight Control
We all know fruit packs a powerful punch in the nutrition department. High-fiber foods can aid in the fight against weight gain and help us lose excess weight. Apples are filling and researchers have found that when they are eaten regularly, apples contribute to weight loss.
Apples have a low-calorie density, meaning they are mostly water. A medium apple has about 86% water content. The high water content paired with the high fiber content helps you feel full. When you feel full, you are less likely to overeat, which helps you feel more confident. When you feel more confident, you make better choices, like eating apples. It is a wonderful, healthy cycle to fall into and can take you to weight control places you have never been.
Eating foods with a high fiber content may slow down the digestive process. This, in turn, helps you feel more full and eat less. It is best to eat your apples in their whole state. If you opt for apple juice, which can be high in sugar, it may not be as filling and will deliver more calories than you need. The bottom line, stick to whole foods in their natural state.
Getting to and maintaining a healthy weight is the one key thing you can do to help your body ward off a plethora of diseases and complications. The added bonus apple nutrients add to your weight control plan is a win/win.
3. Reduce Acid Reflux
Love pepperoni pizza and beer on Friday night, hate what it does to your body on Saturday – acid reflux is no joke.
Acid reflux happens when food seeps back into the esophagus and causes pain and irritation. The resulting burning sensation is typically heartburn and/or an unpleasant sour-tasting fluid appearing in your throat. Not a fun way to relive a pizza and beer meal.
According to WebMD, adding fiber-rich foods like apples to your diet can help keep acid reflux under control. Eating your way to health is a much better solution than adding unnecessary prescription and over-the-counter anti-reflux medications to your system.
Eat more apples and enjoy an occasional pepperoni pizza with a brew and have a happy, heartburn-free Saturday.
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4. Fighting Asthma
Fighting asthma and trying to catch your breath is scary and life-threatening.
Oxidative stress can lead to asthma. Quercetin, a flavonoid found in apple skin has been shown to help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation which can lead to asthma.
A study on children whose mothers ate apples while pregnant showed a 27% lower risk of wheezing. The researchers believe that phytochemicals in apples may be linked to this healthy outcome
Another study by the Nutrition Journal found that “apple and pear intake was associated with a decreased risk of asthma and bronchial hypersensitivity”. The study found that participants who ate at least two apples a week showed a marked inverse relationship with asthma.
5. Love Your Pancreas
The antioxidants in apples can protect the cells in your pancreas which can lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Red apples have resveratrol in their skin, much like that in red wine. Although researchers are still in the study phase, resveratrol is an antioxidant-like compound that may be beneficial to your blood pressure, brain, joints, and pancreas.
Looking for a way to add the plant compounds found in apples to your diet healthfully? How about adding these super healthful and yummy Apple Butternut Squash Pancakes from Pancan.org? They are a delicious snack for everyone and are especially helpful if you suffer from nausea or upset stomach issues.
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6. Keep Cardiovascular Disease At Bay
The benefits of eating apples frequently are directly related to their soluble fiber content. This ever-so-popular fruit is super healthy and high on the soluble fiber chart. Soluble fiber dissolves in water when it enters the body and maintains a gel-like consistency. The fiber sticks to the bad cholesterol and flushes it out of the body.
A study in the Journal of Functional Foods, as reported by Prevention, found that eating an apple a day can cut your risk of developing heart disease by almost in half. The daily apple lowered participants’ blood oxidation of the bad cholesterol, LDL by 40 percent.
The polyphenol antioxidants in apples are most likely the leader in reducing the oxidative damage that can lead to lower LDL which may reduce your risk of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is when your arteries harden which can lead you down the path to a stroke or heart atta