What kind of recipe is it?
Cranberry-Apple Cobbler is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of apples, creating a warm and inviting dish.
This comforting cobbler features a flaky, golden topping that contrasts beautifully with the juicy fruit filling beneath. Ideal for family gatherings or holiday celebrations, it’s a crowd-pleaser that satisfies both fruit and dessert lovers alike.
With its straightforward preparation, this recipe is perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers looking to impress without the hassle.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh cranberries | 2 cups |
| Apples (peeled and sliced) | 3 medium (approximately 3 cups) |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/2 teaspoon |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Baking powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (1 stick) |
| Milk | 3/4 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
Cooking Steps
1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F), positioning the oven rack in the center.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of fresh cranberries, 3 cups of sliced apples, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg.
Toss the mixture gently to coat the fruits and set it aside for about 10 minutes to allow the sugars to draw out juices.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until well combined.
4. Melt 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low heat.
Once melted, remove from heat and stir in 3/4 cup of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smoothly combined.
5. Pour the melted butter mixture into the flour mixture.
Stir until just combined; don’t overmix. The batter should be slightly lumpy.
6. Grease a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking dish.
Spoon the cranberry-apple mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
7. Drop spoonfuls of the batter over the fruit mixture, covering it as best as possible without mixing.
It’s okay if some fruit is exposed.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
The aroma of baked fruit and spices should fill the kitchen.
9. Once done, remove the cobbler from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before serving to set the filling and improve slicing.
10. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added flavor.
Variations
- Cranberry-Orange Cobbler: Substitute the sliced apples with 3 cups (about 500g) of orange segments and add 1 tablespoon of orange zest for a citrusy twist.
- Vegan Berry Cobbler: Replace the butter with 1/2 cup (120ml) of coconut oil and use almond milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free option; also, use maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
- Gluten-Free Delight: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend (1 cup or 120g) to make the cobbler suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
- Pumpkin Spice Cobbler: Incorporate 1 cup (240g) of canned pumpkin puree into the fruit mix and add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon for a seasonal flavor shift.
Tips on plating and presentation
When it comes to serving your cranberry-apple cobbler, presentation can elevate the dish to a whole new level.
I like to use a rustic pie dish to showcase its charm. Top it off with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for contrast and color.
Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the cobbler adds a touch of elegance—trust me, your guests will appreciate it!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
Pairing dishes can elevate your meal, and I often recommend serving cranberry-apple cobbler alongside a light, invigorating side salad. The crunchy greens and tangy vinaigrette balance the sweetness of the cobbler perfectly.
You can also consider roasted Brussels sprouts or a comforting sweet potato casserole for added warmth. Each of these options complements the flavors beautifully, creating a delightful dining experience.
What drinks can I pair it with?
Although there are many great drink options to enjoy with cranberry-apple cobbler, I find that a sparkling white wine really enhances the flavors. Its effervescence adds a revitalizing contrast.
If you prefer something non-alcoholic, try a chilled apple cider; it complements the sweetness perfectly.
For a cozy touch, a warm spiced chai also works well, bringing out the spices in the cobbler.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries or Apples for This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen cranberries or apples for this recipe! Just be mindful that they might release more liquid, so adjusting the cooking time and sugar a bit can help balance things.
How Do I Store Leftovers of the Cobbler?
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They usually last about three to four days. When I’m ready to enjoy them again, I simply reheat in the oven for the best texture!
Can I Make This Cobbler Ahead of Time?
Absolutely, I can make this cobbler ahead of time! I usually prepare it a day before, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. Just reheat it before serving for a delightful treat.
What Is the Best Way to Reheat Leftover Cobbler?
To reheat leftover cobbler, I preheat my oven to 350°F. Then, I place the cobbler in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until it’s warm and delicious again.
Is This Recipe Suitable for Vegan Diets?
No, this recipe isn’t suitable for vegan diets since it likely contains animal products like butter or milk. I recommend substituting those ingredients with plant-based alternatives to make it vegan-friendly and equally delicious!
