If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and buttery goodness, this Apricot Cobbler Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It showcases fresh apricots in a luscious filling topped with a tender, golden biscuit crust that’s delightfully crisp at the edges. Each bite bursts with juicy apricot flavor, enhanced by a hint of vanilla and citrus notes, making it an instantly comforting and irresistible treat. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a summer gathering, this cobbler beautifully captures the essence of warm, homemade charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Apricot Cobbler Recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role—from the bright, fresh apricots to the rich, buttery biscuit topping that browns beautifully in the oven.
- 6 cups fresh apricots, pitted and sliced: The star of the dessert, bringing natural sweetness and a juicy texture.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the apricot filling perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Thickens the juicy filling so it doesn’t get runny.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and a warm scent to the fruit mixture.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the apricot flavor and provides subtle tartness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): Gives a gentle spicy note that complements the apricots.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the tender biscuit topping.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the biscuit dough just right.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Provides lift to the topping, keeping it fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the biscuit flavor and balances sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Creates the rich, flaky texture in the biscuit crust.
- 3/4 cup whole milk (or buttermilk): Keeps the biscuit dough moist and tender.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds an extra layer of flavor to the topping.
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional): Sprinkled on top for a pleasant crunch and sparkle.
How to Make Apricot Cobbler Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your cobbler bakes evenly and comes out without any sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Prep the Apricots
Slice and pit your fresh apricots carefully. If you’re using canned, be sure to drain them well, and for frozen ones, thaw and drain to avoid excess moisture. Properly prepped apricots are key to getting that ideal texture and avoiding a soupy filling.
Step 3: Mix the Fruit Filling
In a large bowl, combine the apricots with sugar, cornstarch, salt, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and the optional cinnamon. Stir gently to coat all the fruit evenly. The cornstarch helps thicken the juices released during baking, so the filling sets beautifully.
Step 4: Pour the Filling into the Dish
Transfer the fruit mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. This creates a wonderful base layer of juicy apricots for the biscuit topping to rest on.
Step 5: Prepare the Biscuit Topping
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Then add the cold, cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter or fork, blend the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is essential for a tender, flaky topping.
Step 6: Combine Wet Ingredients
Pour in the milk (or buttermilk) and vanilla extract. Stir just until combined—you want to avoid overmixing to keep your biscuits light and fluffy.
Step 7: Assemble the Cobbler
Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough evenly over the apricot mixture. Don’t worry about covering every inch; the gaps allow steam to escape and the fruit to bubble through in the best way. If you like, sprinkle some coarse sugar on top for extra crunch and shine.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake in your preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the biscuit topping is beautifully golden and the apricot filling is bubbling delightfully. Let the cobbler cool for 15 to 20 minutes after baking to let the filling thicken and set — this resting time is pure magic for perfect slices.
How to Serve Apricot Cobbler Recipe
Garnishes
For a classic finish, a scoop of rich vanilla ice cream on top of a warm slice is heavenly. Alternatively, a dollop of softly whipped cream adds a light, creamy contrast. Fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cinnamon offer an elegant touch that also complements the flavors wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This cobbler shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee for a comforting afternoon treat. If serving at a gathering, consider adding fresh berries or sliced fruits alongside to amplify the summery vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get creative, try serving apricot cobbler in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. Layering with granola or toasted nuts can add an exciting texture contrast. You could also drizzle honey or a tangy fruit sauce over the top just before serving to amp up the flavor experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover apricot cobbler keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as they sit, making it delicious when reheated gently or served cold.
Freezing
You can freeze the cobbler either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warmed through and bubbly.
Reheating
For the best taste and texture, reheat cobbler in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. This restores the biscuit topping’s crispness and heats the filling evenly, unlike a microwave which can make it soggy.
FAQs
Can I use canned apricots instead of fresh?
Yes, canned apricots work well if fresh ones are out of season, but be sure to drain them thoroughly to avoid a watery filling. Adjust the amount of sugar, since canned apricots tend to be sweeter.
Is there a gluten-free way to make this Apricot Cobbler Recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend and make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious.
Can I add other fruits to this cobbler?
Definitely! Peaches, nectarines, or berries can be combined with apricots for a mixed fruit cobbler, adding more complexity and color to your dessert.
How do I know when the cobbler is done?
The biscuit topping should be golden brown and the apricot filling should be bubbling around the edges. If it’s browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil and continue baking until done.
Why is my cobbler filling too runny?
This usually means not enough thickener was used or the cobbler hasn’t had enough time to rest after baking. Always use the recommended cornstarch and allow the cobbler to cool so the filling can set properly.
Final Thoughts
This Apricot Cobbler Recipe is a heartwarming dessert that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family, especially when apricots are in season. Its beautiful combination of juicy fruit and buttery, tender biscuit topping will have everyone asking for seconds. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every comforting bite!
Print
Apricot Cobbler Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious homemade Apricot Cobbler featuring fresh apricots baked under a tender, buttery biscuit topping. This classic dessert combines sweet, tangy fruit with a golden, crumbly crust, perfect served warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients
Fruit Filling
- 6 cups fresh apricots, pitted and sliced
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Biscuit Topping
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare Apricots: Slice and pit fresh apricots. If using canned apricots, drain them well. If frozen, thaw and drain excess liquid to avoid a soggy filling.
- Mix Fruit Filling: In a bowl, gently combine apricots with granulated sugar, cornstarch, salt, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and optional cinnamon. Stir carefully to coat the fruit without breaking it up.
- Transfer Filling: Pour this fruit mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and spread to level out the surface.
- Prepare Biscuit Dry Mix: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or fork, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Milk and Vanilla: Stir in the milk and vanilla extract just until combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the topping tender.
- Drop Topping: Spoon dollops of the biscuit dough over the apricot filling, leaving spaces between each to allow the filling to bubble through.
- Sprinkle Sugar: Sprinkle the coarse sugar over the biscuit topping if using, for added texture and sweetness.
- Bake: Bake the cobbler in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, until the biscuit topping is golden brown and the apricot filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cobbler cool for 15 to 20 minutes. This resting time helps the filling thicken for perfect serving consistency.
- Serve: Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or chilled whipped cream for a classic dessert experience.
Notes
- Use firm, ripe apricots for the best texture and avoid overripe ones that may turn mushy during baking.
- Keep your butter chilled and avoid overworking the biscuit dough to ensure a light, tender topping texture.
- Allow the cobbler to rest after baking to let the fruit filling thicken fully and prevent it from running.
