Introduction
When the weather turns crisp and the leaves start to fall, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a warm apple dessert. This delectable recipe features a tender apple filling, perfectly complemented by a warm, crumbly topping. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds and fill your home with the comforting aroma of baked apples and cinnamon.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Filling:
– 2½ pounds apples (about 8 whole apples), peeled, cored, and chopped
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (½ stick), melted
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
– 1 cup brown sugar
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
For the Topping:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– ⅓ cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon kosher salt
– 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 stick), cut into small cubes
– ¾ cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1-2 tablespoons turbinado sugar
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: Serves 8-10 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare Apple Filling
In a large bowl, combine the chopped apples, melted butter, lemon juice, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Toss the ingredients well until the apples are evenly coated. Stir in the flour to help thicken the filling. Once mixed, transfer the apple mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Topping Mixture
In another large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and kosher salt until well combined.
Step 4: Incorporate Butter into Topping
Add the cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the mixture, continuing until it resembles a crumbly texture with largest butter pieces being pea-sized or smaller.
Step 5: Add Milk and Vanilla
In a liquid measuring cup, whisk together the whole milk and pure vanilla extract until combined. Pour this liquid into the dry ingredient mixture and stir gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the topping fluffy.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Drop spoonfuls of the topping mixture evenly over the apple filling in the baking dish. Sprinkle the top with turbinado sugar for added crunch and sweetness.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until the apple filling is bubbling and the topping is golden brown on top. Allow the dish to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Apple Selection
Choose a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor. Varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work well together.
Butter Cooling
Ensure the melted butter has cooled slightly before mixing with the apples to prevent cooking the apples prematurely.
Serving Suggestions
This dish can be served warm or at room temperature. Consider pairing it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added richness.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Cook techniques
Peeling and Coring Apples
Ensure that apples are thoroughly peeled and cored to remove any unwanted texture in the filling. This technique makes for a smoother, more enjoyable taste.
Melting Butter
Melt the unsalted butter gently to avoid any browning. This ensures the butter combines evenly into the mixture, adding moisture and richness to the filling.
Tossing Ingredients
Gently toss the apples with sugar and butter to ensure even coating. This technique is essential for balanced flavor throughout the filling.
Cutting Butter Into Flour
Use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the flour until it resembles pea-sized crumbs. This method helps to create a crumbly topping that will bake beautifully.
Gently Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
When mixing the milk and vanilla into the dry ingredients, stir gently. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, so it’s important to combine until just mixed.
Dropping Topping Evenly
Spoon the topping over the apple filling evenly. This helps ensure that every bite has a good balance of the topping and filling.
Baking Until Golden
Bake until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbling, which indicates that the dish is properly cooked and the flavors have melded beautifully.
FAQ
Can I use other types of fruit instead of apples?
Yes, you can substitute apples with other fruits like pears or berries, but be mindful of the moisture content and adjust sugar levels accordingly.
What can I use instead of brown sugar?
You can substitute brown sugar with an equal amount of granulated sugar, though it will alter the flavor slightly by removing the molasses notes.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and topping separately and assemble them before baking. This makes it convenient for entertaining.
What if I don’t have turbinado sugar?
If turbinado sugar is unavailable, you can use regular granulated sugar for sprinkling on top; it will still provide some sweetness and crunch.
Conclusion
This delicious apple dessert combines a warm, spiced apple filling with a buttery, golden topping, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, it’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and warm your heart.
Apple Crisp
Use the same filling and add oats and nuts to the topping for a crunchy, textured twist.
Peach and Apple Bake
Substitute half of the apples with fresh peaches for a seasonal fruit variation that adds a juicy sweetness.
Caramel Apple Bake
Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple filling before adding the topping for an indulgent caramel flavor.
Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake
Incorporate pieces of store-bought cinnamon rolls into the topping for an easy and delightful fusion of flavors.
Apple and Berry Crumble
Mix in fresh or frozen berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, with the apple filling for a colorful and flavorful addition.
