Gluten Free Apple Cobbler Recipe
Introduction
There’s something about the aroma of baked apples, cinnamon, and vanilla wafting through the kitchen that brings instant comfort. Apple cobbler has been a classic dessert for generations, often shared at family dinners, holiday gatherings, or cool-weather weekends. It’s sweet, slightly tart, and full of nostalgic flavor that feels like home in every bite. But for those following a gluten-free lifestyle, traditional cobbler recipes can be off-limits. Thankfully, with the right substitutions and a simple approach, making a gluten free version is easier than you think.
This gluten free apple cobbler is everything you love about the traditional recipe but without any wheat or gluten-containing ingredients. It has a warm and gooey apple filling spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, topped with a fluffy, slightly crisp biscuit-style topping that turns golden in the oven. Best of all, it doesn’t require any special baking skills or fancy equipment. Just a handful of pantry staples and some fresh apples will get you there.
Whether you’re gluten intolerant, have celiac disease, or are just trying to cut down on gluten, this cobbler will satisfy your dessert cravings in a wholesome and delicious way. The texture is spot on and the flavor is rich and comforting. Serve it warm on its own or with your favorite scoop of vanilla ice cream and you’ve got a dessert that’s impossible to resist. This is more than just a treat — it’s a dish that brings people together.
Ingredients Needed
This recipe uses basic ingredients that are easy to find in most grocery stores. Many of them might already be in your pantry. The key is using a reliable gluten free all-purpose flour blend. Choose one that includes xanthan gum or binders if possible for the best texture.
Here is everything you need to make the perfect gluten free apple cobbler.
6 medium apples, peeled and thinly sliced
1 third cup coconut sugar or light brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
One fourth teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder
1 cup gluten free all-purpose flour
One third cup granulated sugar or coconut sugar
One and a half teaspoons baking powder
One fourth teaspoon salt
Half cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
One fourth cup melted unsalted butter or coconut oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Here is a breakdown of the ingredients with approximate calorie content:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Apples | 6 medium | 480 |
| Coconut Sugar | 1/3 cup | 120 |
| Cinnamon and Nutmeg | 1.25 tsp total | 10 |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tbsp | 4 |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp | 30 |
| Gluten Free Flour | 1 cup | 400 |
| Granulated Sugar | 1/3 cup | 270 |
| Baking Powder | 1.5 tsp | 5 |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp | 0 |
| Milk | 1/2 cup | 60 |
| Butter or Coconut Oil | 1/4 cup | 200 |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp | 12 |
Total Calories for Whole Cobbler: Around 1600
Calories Per Serving (8 servings): About 200
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease an 8 by 8 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This will help keep the cobbler from sticking and make cleanup easier.
In a large mixing bowl, combine your peeled and sliced apples with the coconut sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Stir everything together until the apples are well coated. The sugar and spices will start to draw out the juices from the apples, creating a flavorful syrup. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Next, make the topping. In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten free flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Then add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until a smooth batter forms. It should be slightly thick but still pourable.
Drop spoonfuls of the batter over the apple mixture. You don’t need to cover the apples completely. The topping will spread as it bakes and the filling will bubble up through the gaps.
Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 40 to 45 minutes. The topping should be golden brown and slightly crisp on top, while the apple filling will be soft and bubbling. Remove from the oven and let it sit for 10 minutes before serving. This gives the filling time to set up a bit.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to adapt. If you like experimenting in the kitchen, there are lots of ways to make it your own.
Try swapping out the apples for pears, peaches, or even a mix of berries. You can also combine apples with cranberries for a festive twist. If you enjoy extra texture, mix some chopped pecans or walnuts into the topping. This adds a bit of crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the apples.
For a deeper spice profile, add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the sugar slightly or use a natural sweetener like monk fruit. To make this completely dairy free, use almond or oat milk and replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
The great thing about this cobbler is that it’s forgiving. Small tweaks won’t ruin the dish, so feel free to get creative with what you have on hand.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this gluten free apple cobbler contains around 200 calories, making it a satisfying yet lighter dessert choice. Here is a closer look at the average nutrition per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Protein | 2 grams |
| Fat | 9 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 30 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sugars | 16 grams |
| Sodium | 120 mg |
This recipe provides a good balance of natural fruit fiber and moderate sweetness. It’s a great option for people who are watching their gluten intake but still want a treat that feels indulgent.
Serving Suggestions
Apple cobbler is best served warm, ideally fresh from the oven. For a traditional touch, top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the warm cobbler and cold ice cream is incredibly satisfying.
If you prefer a dairy free option, try it with a scoop of coconut milk ice cream or a spoonful of whipped coconut cream. A light drizzle of maple syrup or a dusting of cinnamon on top can enhance the flavors even more.
You can also pair this cobbler with a warm cup of tea or spiced apple cider. It’s a perfect dessert for cozy nights in or sharing with friends after dinner. If you have leftovers, simply cover and store them in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This gluten free apple cobbler brings together the comforting flavors of baked apples, warm spices, and a soft golden topping in the most satisfying way. It’s simple enough for beginner bakers but tasty enough to impress your guests. With easy-to-find ingredients and endless options for customization, this cobbler is a dessert you’ll want to make again and again.
Whether you’re avoiding gluten for health reasons or just looking for a wholesome homemade treat, this recipe proves that gluten free baking can be just as delicious and satisfying as the traditional kind. Gather your apples, preheat your oven, and enjoy a little slice of comfort today.