Apricots are juicy and nutritious fruits that are popularly used for making jams, jellies, sauces, and desserts. One of the most delicious apricot desserts is the apricot almond cobbler. This dessert is made by combining apricots with an almond-flavored dough or crumble and baking it until golden brown. In this article, we will explore what apricot almond cobbler recipes are, their history, ingredients, and how to make them.
What is Apricot Almond Cobbler?
A cobbler is a baked fruit dessert that has a topping made of biscuit dough or crumble. The dough or crumble is scattered on top of the fruit and baked until it is golden brown. Apricot almond cobbler is a type of cobbler that is made using apricots and almonds.
History of Apricot Almond Cobbler
The origin of cobbler is attributed to the early European settlers in the United States. The dessert was created as a way of using available fruits and ingredients. Over time, cobbler recipes have evolved, and today there are numerous variations of the dessert. The incorporation of almonds in apricot cobbler is inspired by the traditional French dessert frangipane, which is made by mixing almonds with a custard filling.
Ingredients for Apricot Almond Cobbler
The ingredients for apricot almond cobbler include:
- Ripe apricots (fresh, canned or frozen)
- All-purpose flour
- Sugar
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Butter
- Almond extract
- Eggs
- Almond flour
- Milk
How to Make Apricot Almond Cobbler
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together 1 1/2 cups of flour, 1/3 cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Step 3: Cut 1/2 cup of butter into small pieces and add it to the flour mixture. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of milk, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract. Add this to the flour mixture and stir until just combined.
Step 5: In a greased 9x9 inch baking dish, arrange 4 cups of sliced apricots.
Step 6: In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of sugar and 1/4 cup of almond flour. Sprinkle this mixture over the apricots.
Step 7: Pour the batter over the apricots and spread it out evenly.
Step 8: Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
In Conclusion
Apricot almond cobbler is a simple yet delicious dessert that is perfect for summer when apricots are in season. It is easy to make and requires basic ingredients that are readily available in most kitchens. The dessert is versatile and can be made using fresh, frozen or canned apricots. The addition of almond flour and almond extract gives the cobbler a rich nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the apricots. Overall, apricot almond cobbler is an ideal dessert for entertaining guests, family gatherings or just as a treat for yourself.
Valuable Tips when Making Apricot Almond Cobbler Recipes
Apricot almond cobbler is a fantastic dessert for summer. With a sweet and tangy filling of fresh apricots and a crunchy almond topping, it is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. However, making the perfect apricot almond cobbler can be challenging, especially for beginners. Here are some valuable tips to help you make the best apricot almond cobbler recipe.
1. Choose the Right Apricots
When making apricot almond cobbler, the first thing you need to focus on is choosing the right apricots. The key to a perfect apricot cobbler is the quality and ripeness of the apricots you use. For the best flavor and texture, look for ripe apricots that are just slightly soft to the touch. Avoid apricots that are too ripe, as they can be mushy and will not hold their shape well during baking.
2. Preparing the Apricots
Once you have the right apricots, the next step is to prepare them. Start by washing the apricots thoroughly with cool water and then pat them dry with a paper towel. Slice the apricots into bite-sized pieces, removing the pits and any discolored parts.
3. Use the Right Type of Flour
The type of flour you use is essential when it comes to making the best apricot almond cobbler. The ideal flour to use is all-purpose flour, which is perfect for making sweet and savory dishes. Avoid using cake flour, which is too fine and gives a light, delicate texture that is not suitable for cobbler.
4. Making the Almond Topping
The almond topping is what gives the apricot cobbler that crunchy texture and nutty flavor. For the perfect almond topping, mix together all-purpose flour, sugar, and almond flour. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or food processor until the topping is crumbly.
5. Adding Cornstarch to the Filling
Adding cornstarch to the apricot filling is vital to thicken the juices and prevent a runny cobbler. The cornstarch will provide a gooey substance that enhances the flavor and consistency of your apricot almond cobbler.
6. Ensure Evenly Distributed Topping
One of the most common mistakes when making apricot almond cobbler is having too much topping in some areas and too little in others. To prevent this, take extra care to ensure you spread the almond topping evenly over the apricot filling. This will help to create consistency in the texture and taste of your dessert, making each bite more enjoyable.
7. Serve Your Cobbler Warm
Finally, the best way to enjoy apricot almond cobbler is to serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. At room temperature or cold, the cobbler may lose its texture and flavor. So, serve it hot, and your guests can enjoy the crunch of the almond topping and the soft, sweet apricot filling with every bite.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making apricot almond cobbler is a perfect way to wrap up any summer gathering, and getting the recipe right is key to the success of the dessert. With these valuable tips, you can create a cobbler that is both easy to make and delicious to eat. Take the time to choose the right apricots, prepare them correctly, and make sure to distribute the almond topping for an even texture. With these tips, you can make a fantastic apricot almond cobbler that your guests will remember for a long time.
