These mini apple cobblers use a spiced cider filling and granola topping for a beautiful symphony of fall flavors and textures. The unique nuttiness of the granola and the fall cider aromas are the perfect indulgence for cooler nights. Of course they are great in any season however!
What do I need to make mini apple cobblers?
You will need several small bake- safe ramekins. Or opt to use this recipe to make one larger cobbler. You may want to double the recipe if using a 9 inch baking dish for adequate coverage. For this recipe we also like to make our own granola, but you can certainly purchase your favorite variety. Chefs often have granola on hand to make it easier. For the apples we like to use a variety of firmer baking apples. Other ingredients:
- Fall cider spices. We use clove, cinnamon, star anise, and vanilla here. You can omit any of these or play around with the seasonings. The anise is very subtle and works great with apples and cloves in small quantities.
- Cornstarch. Helps to bind the filling. You can also use flour here, but in that case use half the amount.
- Butter. We use this on the crust and the filling. You can substitute with coconut oil to avoid dairy.
- Apple cider. We always look for fresh pressed without any additives. If you are using a sweetened version cut back on the sugar and look at the spices as it may already contain mulling spices.
- Sugars. This recipe calls for white and brown sugar. For other preferences consider substituting with honey and or palm sugar. Coconut brown sugar also works well for this recipe.
What are some other add-ons that work well with apple cobblers?
Chefs often add a spiced whipped cream. Think about adding a touch of ground cinnamon to home made whipped cream. You won’t even need much sugar. Of course vanilla ice cream works fantastic. Caramel can match well in smaller quantities. If you have creme anglaise handy it is essentially liquid ice cream and works well also. For a lighter and healthier option a spoonful of vanilla yogurt makes a nice contrast as well.
Mini Apple Cobblers
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pound Apples cored and diced into 1/4 inch cubes
- 1 cup Apple cider
- 3 tbsp Sugar
- 3 tbsp Butter diced into small cubes
- 2 tbsp Cornstarch
- 1 each Clove
- 1 each Star anise
- .5 tsp Ground cinnamon
- .5 tsp vanilla extract
For Granola Topping
- .5 cups Granola
- 2 tbsp Flour
- 2 tbsp Brown sugar
- 3 tbsp Butter
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients. Dice the apples into cubes, about 1/4 inch pieces. Dice the butter and portion. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
- In a small sauce pan, heat the cider, clove, anise, cinnamon, and sugar. Bring to a simmer, then turn off heat and allow to steep for several minutes. Strain the clove and anise, then add the vanilla. and stir in the cornstarch. Reserve.
- In a bowl, microwave the 3 tbsp butter to melt, then stir in the brown sugar and flour.
- Mix the granola with the butter- flour mixture.
- Place the diced apple into the ramekins, then add the butter evenly distributed. Pour the seasoned cider over the apples in equal amounts.
- Add the granola topping in equal amounts.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the filling has bubbled to cook and soften. Serve with ice cream, whipped cream, or nothing at all! Bon appetit!
