Best Apple Cobbler Shortbread Squares Recipes

Apple cobbler shortbread squares are a delicious dessert that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples with the buttery richness of shortbread. Made with simple ingredients, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

The History of Apple Cobbler Shortbread Squares

The origins of this dessert are not well-documented, but it is believed to have originated in the United States. The recipe for apple cobbler shortbread squares likely began to circulate in the late 19th or early 20th century, when home baking became more popular in the United States.

The Ingredients

To make apple cobbler shortbread squares, you will need:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 cups diced apples
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

The Preparation

To make apple cobbler shortbread squares, follow these steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture and beat until well-combined.
4. Press two-thirds of the shortbread dough into the bottom of the prepared pan, pressing down firmly to create an even layer. Set the remaining dough aside.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Mix well, then spread the apple mixture over the shortbread crust in the pan.
6. Take the remaining shortbread dough and crumble it over the top of the apple mixture in the pan.
7. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are lightly browned. Allow the pan to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Variations

While apple cobbler shortbread squares are delicious as they are, there are several variations that you can try:

• Swap the apples for peaches or blueberries to create a fruit cobbler square.
• Add a streusel topping to the shortbread dough for added crunch.
• Serve the squares warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

The Bottom Line

Apple cobbler shortbread squares are a classic dessert that is easy to make and sure to impress. With a buttery shortbread crust and a warm, spiced apple filling, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Try making this recipe for your next gathering and watch as your guests go back for seconds (and thirds!).

Apple cobbler shortbread squares are the perfect fall dessert. Sweet apples mixed with cinnamon and buttery shortbread, it's a treat that will keep you feeling warm and cozy on any chilly day. If you're looking to make this delicious dessert, there are some valuable tips that will help you create the perfect apple cobbler shortbread squares recipe.

Tip #1: Choose the Right Apples

The first and most important step in making apple cobbler shortbread squares is choosing the right type of apple. You'll want to pick apples that are firm and slightly tart, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, as they will hold their shape and not turn to mush after cooking. On the other hand, overly sweet apples like Red Delicious tend to break down and become mushy in the oven, which can impact the texture of the cobbler.

Tip #2: Cut Apples in Uniform Sizes

Once you've chosen the perfect type of apple, you'll want to make sure that you cut them into uniform pieces so that they cook evenly. This can be achieved by using an apple corer and slicer, which will not only make the task a lot easier but also ensure uniformity in the size of apple pieces.

Tip #3: Make a Thick Filling

To avoid a runny filling, it's essential to use ingredients that will thicken the apple mixture. This can be achieved by adding cornstarch or flour to the mixture to absorb the excess liquid. Additionally, letting the filling sit for a few minutes before baking will allow the ingredients to meld together and create a thicker consistency.

Tip #4: Add Cinnamon and Other Spices

Cinnamon is a classic spice to add to any apple dessert. But don't be afraid to experiment with other spices like ginger or nutmeg to add depth and complexity to the flavor profile of your cobbler.

Tip #5: Don't Overwork the Shortbread Dough

Shortbread is all about that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture. To achieve this, it's essential not to overwork the dough. Overworking the dough can result in a tough, dry pastry. To avoid this, mix the ingredients until they are just combined and crumbly, then press the dough into the pan and smooth it out carefully.

Tip #6: Use Room Temperature Ingredients

When making any pastry, it's essential to use room temperature ingredients as it helps to achieve the best texture. Take out the butter and eggs from the fridge well in advance to ensure they are at room temperature. Using cold ingredients can cause the dough to be lumpy and hard to combine, resulting in an unevenly baked pastry.

Tip #7: Chill the Dough

Chilling the dough before baking helps to ensure a crumbly and buttery texture. The dough is generally too soft to work with immediately after making, so it is best to place it in the fridge for at least thirty minutes to firm up before pressing it into the pan.

Tip #8: Preheat the Oven

Preheating the oven is essential to ensure that the dessert bakes evenly. The oven should be at the correct temperature before you put in your cobbler. It's also important to follow the recipe instructions and not to rush the baking process. If you need to check on the cobbler, do it quickly and close the oven door as soon as possible to avoid slowing down the baking process.

Tip #9: Let it Cool Completely

While it may be tempting to cut into your freshly baked dessert, it's important to let the cobbler cool completely before slicing. Hot cobbler tends to be runny and may not hold its shape when cut. Cooling the cobbler allows the filling to set and for the flavors to meld together, making it easier to slice and serve.

Tip #10: Serve it with Ice Cream

What's better than a warm apple cobbler square? Pairing it with a cold scoop of vanilla ice cream! The hot-and-cold contrast is sure to be a hit with your family and guests. Additionally, the ice cream will help to balance the sweetness of the cobbler and create a perfect dessert.

Conclusion

Apple cobbler shortbread squares are a delicious and easy dessert to make, perfect for a chilly fall day. With these valuable tips, you'll be able to make the perfect apple cobbler shortbread squares recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends. Remember to choose the right apples, cut them uniformly, add delicious spices, and take your time to make the perfect shortbread dough. Happy baking!