Caramel Apple Pecan Cobbler: A Symphony of Fall Flavors

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling:

  • 9 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 cup pecans, chopped

For the Caramel Sauce:

  • 3/4 cup butter (1 1/2 sticks)
  • 1 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cobbler Topping:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2/3 cup brown sugar
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup butter, cut into small pieces
  • 2/3 cup boiling water

Additional Topping:

  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Directions

Prepare the Apple Filling:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  3. Mix until the apples are evenly coated. Stir in the chopped pecans and set aside.

Make the Caramel Sauce:

  1. In a small heavy-bottomed pan, melt the butter over low heat.
  2. Add the light brown sugar and milk, bringing the mixture to a boil while stirring constantly for about 12 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and let cool for 10 minutes.
  4. Pour most of the caramel sauce over the apple mixture, reserving some for drizzling later.

Assemble the Cobbler:

  1. Pour the apple mixture into an ungreased 13×9-inch baking dish.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugars, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Using a pastry blender, cut the butter into the flour mixture until crumbly.
  4. Stir in boiling water until just combined and spoon over the apples.
  5. Mix the additional sugar and cinnamon, sprinkle it over the topping.

Bake the Cobbler:

  • Bake for about 45 minutes, until the topping is golden brown.
  • Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the cobbler before serving.

Serve: Enjoy this warm, inviting Caramel Apple Pecan Cobbler, a true celebration of fall’s bounty.

FAQs About Caramel Apple Pecan Cobbler

  1. Can I use other types of apples? Yes, you can use other apple varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp for a sweeter twist.
  2. Is there a substitute for pecans? Walnuts or almonds can be used as a substitute for pecans.
  3. Can I make the cobbler gluten-free? Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.
  4. Can the cobbler be made ahead of time? Yes, prepare the cobbler a day ahead and reheat before serving.
  5. How should I store leftovers? Keep the cobbler refrigerated and consume within 3-4 days.
  6. Can I freeze this cobbler? Yes, it freezes well. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  7. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat in a 350°F oven until warm.
  8. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce? Yes, for convenience, you can use a pre-made caramel sauce.
  9. Is there a vegan alternative for this recipe? Use plant-based butter and a milk substitute for a vegan version.
  10. How do I know when the cobbler is done? The topping should be golden and the filling bubbly.

Chef’s Advice:

For an extra indulgent touch, serve the cobbler with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This not only adds a creamy texture but also balances the warmth of the cobbler with a cool, sweet contrast.

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