Get ready to dive into a cozy and indulgent dessert with this Maple Bourbon Apple Cobbler. The rich flavors of maple and bourbon transform ordinary apples into something truly special, making it a perfect treat for crisp autumn evenings or holiday gatherings.
The star of this recipe is, of course, the apples. Choose a variety that holds up well to baking, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for the best texture. The granulated sugar sweetens the apples just enough, while the maple syrup infuses them with a deep, caramel-like flavor. Adding a splash of bourbon not only enhances this richness but also brings out the natural sweetness of the apples. A sprinkle of cinnamon and a dash of nutmeg round out the flavors with their warm, spicy notes.
For the topping, all-purpose flour and rolled oats create a hearty, crumbly texture. The brown sugar adds a hint of molasses, making the topping slightly chewy and caramelized. Melted butter binds everything together and gives it a golden finish. A touch of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt enhance all the flavors, bringing everything into harmony.
This cobbler is best served warm, straight from the oven. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an extra touch of luxury. If you're feeling adventurous, try a drizzle of salted caramel sauce on top for an added layer of decadence.
To start, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your cobbler bakes evenly and the topping turns a lovely golden brown. As the oven heats, peel and slice your apples into thin wedges. Toss these in a large bowl with the granulated sugar, maple syrup, bourbon, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Use your hands or a large spoon to mix everything, ensuring each slice is well-coated with the mixture.
Once the apples are ready, grease a 9x13 inch baking dish lightly. Transfer the apple mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Now, it's time to make the topping. In another bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the mixture becomes crumbly. Sprinkle this oat mixture over the apples, making sure to cover them evenly.
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You'll know it's done when the top is golden, and the apples are tender, which you can check with a fork. Let the cobbler cool for a few minutes before serving; this helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve.