What is the difference between apple cobbler and apple crumble?

The main difference between apple cobbler and apple crumble is the topping. For apple cobbler, the topping is more like a biscuit or dough, and it creates a soft, slightly crunchy texture. On the other hand, apple crumble has a crumbly, buttery topping that’s usually made from flour, sugar, and butter. Both are delicious, but apple cobbler has that fluffy, baked topping you’re going to love!

What is cobbler topping made of?

The cobbler topping is made from simple ingredients like flour, sugar, baking powder, butter, and buttermilk. First, you mix the dry ingredients together. Then, cut in the cold butter until it looks like crumbs. Add an egg and buttermilk, and stir until everything comes together. The result is a soft, biscuit-like topping that gets golden and crispy as it bakes. So easy and delicious!

Can you use brown sugar in apple cobbler?

Yes, you can absolutely use brown sugar in apple cobbler! In fact, brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like flavor that enhances the apple filling. It helps balance out the sweetness and adds depth to the cobbler. Just be sure to use a mix of both granulated and brown sugar to get that perfect balance. Trust me, it’ll taste amazing with that extra hint of sweetness!

Can you make apple cobbler with pie filling?

Yes, you can make apple cobbler with pie filling if you're short on time or ingredients. However, homemade apple filling tends to be fresher and tastier. You can simply pour pie filling into your baking dish and top it with the cobbler topping. While the flavor will be different, it’s still a super quick and easy way to make apple cobbler. You’ll enjoy it no matter how you make it!

Homemade Apple Cobbler Recipe: Comforting, and Easy to Make

Ingredients

Scale

For the Apple Filling:

5 pounds apples (9–11 large apples)
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
3 tablespoons lemon juice
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar
5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 & 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon cardamom (optional)
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cobbler Topping:

2 & 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 & 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 egg
1/2 cup cold butter
2 tablespoons sugar (for topping)
Vanilla ice cream for serving

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the apple filling: Peel, core, and slice the apples. Toss with lemon zest, lemon juice, sugars, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, salt, and vanilla. Let sit for 10 minutes before spreading evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Make the cobbler topping: In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Cut in cold butter until it forms coarse crumbs. Add egg and buttermilk, stirring until just combined.
Assemble the cobbler: Spoon the topping over the apples. Don’t worry about perfection—some apples will peek through.
Bake for 45-50 minutes until the topping is golden and the apples are bubbling. Check doneness with a toothpick.
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce, if desired.

Notes

Use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Fuji for the best flavor.
Make ahead: Prepare the filling and topping in advance, then assemble and bake when ready.
For a crunchy twist, add walnuts, pecans, or oats to the topping.

Author: Anna Gomez
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: Per Serving
Calories: 320
Sugar: 38g
Sodium: 190mg
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: apple cobbler, easy dessert, homemade dessert, comforting dessert, apple filling, cobbler topping, warm dessert, vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, healthy dessert, fall dessert, family baking, simple ingredients, apple crisp, quick dessert, cobbler recipe, beginner-friendly recipe