Name: Apple Cranberry Cobbler Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (90 grams) Cranberries fresh or frozen; 1/3 cup (70 grams) Apple Cider or Bourbon or a mix of both (unsweetened apple juice may be used); 2 Star Anise; 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar (light or dark); 1/2 Vanilla Bean or 2 tsp vanilla extract; 3 Large Baking Apples (~550 grams total), diced (about 4 cups/400 grams); 1/2 teaspoon Lemon Zest; 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice; 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar (light or dark); 1/2 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon; Pinch of Sea Salt; 4 tablespoons (56 grams) Unsalted Butter, divided; 1/4 cup (55 grams) Organic Cane Sugar; 3/4 cup (115 grams) All Purpose Flour; 2 1/2 teaspoons Baking Powder; Pinch of Sea Salt; 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons (200 grams) Heavy Whip Cream; 1 tablespoon Turbinado or Sanding Sugar (optional, for finishing)

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There is nothing quite like the warm, comforting embrace of a homemade dessert to brighten any day, and this Apple Cranberry Cobbler Recipe does exactly that with its perfect balance of tart cranberries and sweet apples beneath a tender, golden biscuit topping. Combining fresh, simple ingredients that come together in a magically easy way, this cobbler bursts with autumnal flavors that feel both nostalgic and delightfully fresh. Whether you’re serving it up for a holiday gathering or just because you want a little cozy moment, this recipe is a must-make for any lover of fruit desserts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface holds fresh bright red cranberries mixed with dark brown sugar, whole star anise, and a dark brown vanilla bean pod. In the first image, a golden liquid is being poured into the bowl where the ingredients sit in layers—cranberries at the bottom, sugar piled on top, with star anise and vanilla visible. In the second image, the ingredients are mixed, showing cranberries floating in a shiny amber liquid with star anise and vanilla bean on top, and a silver spoon resting inside the bowl on a white cloth with thin black stripes. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients for this Apple Cranberry Cobbler Recipe is a breeze because each one is a straightforward pantry or fridge staple, carefully chosen to deliver maximum flavor and texture. The tartness of fresh cranberries, the mellow sweetness of baking apples, and the flaky, buttery biscuit topping all work in harmony to create a dessert that’s truly spectacular.

1 cup (90 grams) Cranberries: Use fresh or frozen for a perfect burst of tangy flavor that balances the sweetness.
1/3 cup (70 grams) Apple Cider or Bourbon: Adds warmth and depth—unsweetened apple juice works well as a mild alternative.
Two Star Anise: Infuses a subtle, aromatic spice note that elevates the fruit mixture.
2 tablespoons Brown Sugar: Light or dark, it sweetens the cranberry mix while adding a hint of molasses richness.
1/2 Vanilla Bean or 2 tsp Vanilla Extract: Provides a lovely fragrant sweetness that rounds out the cranberries beautifully.
3 Large Baking Apples (approx. 4 cups diced): Jonagold, Gala, or Honeycrisp work best for their natural balance of sweetness and firmness.
1/2 teaspoon Lemon Zest: Brightens the apple mixture and complements the fruit’s sweetness with a fresh citrus zing.
1 tablespoon Lemon Juice: Adds acidity to prevent apples from browning and enhances flavor layers.
2 tablespoons Brown Sugar: Sweetens the apples, highlighting their natural sugars.
1/2 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon: Classic warming spice that beautifully pairs with apple’s flavor.
Pinch of Sea Salt: Balances all the sweetness and intensifies the fruit’s natural flavors.
4 tablespoons (56 grams) Unsalted Butter, divided: Use half in the fruit mixture and half in the biscuit topping for luscious richness.
1/4 cup (55 grams) Organic Cane Sugar: Sweetens the biscuit topping just enough for a delicate finish.
3/4 cup (115 grams) All-Purpose Flour: The base for a tender, flaky cobbler topping.
2 1/2 teaspoons Baking Powder: Provides lightness and lift to the biscuit topping.
Pinch of Sea Salt: Enhances the dough’s flavor complexity.
3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons (200 grams) Heavy Whipping Cream: Adds moisture for an irresistibly tender topping.
1 tablespoon Turbinado or Sanding Sugar (optional): Sprinkles on top for a beautiful golden sparkle and slight crunch.

How to Make Apple Cranberry Cobbler Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Mix

Start by combining the cranberries, apple cider or bourbon, star anise, brown sugar, and vanilla bean (or extract) in a medium saucepan. Gently simmer this mixture over low to medium heat until the cranberries pop and the liquid reduces to a thick, fragrant syrup. This step imbues the fruit with that signature tangy and spiced essence that makes the Apple Cranberry Cobbler Recipe so memorable.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

While the cranberries are cooking, dice your apples and toss them in a bowl with lemon zest, lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt. Melt half of the butter and stir it gently into the apple mixture. This combination creates a beautifully balanced filling that blends the sweetness and spice in just the right way. The lemon ensures your apples stay bright and fresh in flavor.

Step 3: Combine the Fruit Mixtures

Remove the star anise from the cranberry mixture and fold it into the apple filling carefully, making sure the fruit is evenly coated with the spiced syrup. Transfer this luscious fruit mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly so every bite has that perfect blend of tart and sweet.

Step 4: Prepare the Biscuit Topping

In a separate bowl, whisk together the organic cane sugar, flour, baking powder, and sea salt. Add the remaining butter and cut it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually stir in the heavy whipping cream until the dough comes together but is still soft and a little sticky. This tender topping will bake into golden, flaky biscuits that give the dish its classic cobbler charm.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough over the fruit filling, leaving small gaps for steam to escape and for the biscuits to spread and brown beautifully. Optionally, sprinkle the top with turbinado or sanding sugar for a sparkling crunch. Bake your cobbler in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for around 30-35 minutes, or until the biscuit topping is puffed and golden and the fruit filling is bubbly and fragrant. Soon, your kitchen will be filled with the most inviting aroma.

How to Serve Apple Cranberry Cobbler Recipe

The image shows a white scalloped bowl filled with a dessert consisting of three layers: the bottom layer is a mix of cooked red cranberries and diced apples, glistening and juicy; the middle layer is a thick golden-brown crumbly topping with a rough texture; the top layer is a scoop of smooth, creamy white ice cream melting slightly over the crumbly topping. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface next to a striped cloth napkin and a wooden cutting board. On the cutting board, there are two whole apples with red and yellow skin, a small white bowl filled with fresh cranberries, and star anise and cinnamon sticks scattered around. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Nothing complements the comforting warmth of the Apple Cranberry Cobbler Recipe like a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Sprinkle a light dusting of cinnamon or a few fresh cranberries on top for a festive touch that makes every bite visually inviting and irresistibly delicious.

Side Dishes

Serve this cobbler alongside a cozy cup of spiced tea or a robust coffee to balance its sweetness with a warm beverage. It also pairs wonderfully with a tangy lemon sorbet if you want a refreshing contrast or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the cobbler in individual ramekins or mason jars, layering the biscuit topping and fruit for a charming presentation. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a cinnamon stick for flair. This approach not only looks stunning but makes your Apple Cranberry Cobbler Recipe feel like a handcrafted treat made just for your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover cobbler tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The fruit filling will stay moist, and the biscuit topping will soften slightly but remain deliciously flavorful. Simply give it a quick pop in the oven to bring back some of that freshly baked warmth.

Freezing

This Apple Cranberry Cobbler Recipe freezes beautifully if you want to prepare it in advance. Assemble the cobbler but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding a little extra baking time to ensure it cooks through evenly.

Reheating

To reheat, place the cobbler in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the topping crisps back up and the filling is bubbly. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the biscuit topping soggy and lose that fantastic cobbler texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for this Apple Cranberry Cobbler Recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones and are convenient when fresh cranberries aren’t in season. Just rinse and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.

What type of apples are best for this recipe?

Firm baking apples like Jonagold, Gala, or Honeycrisp are ideal because they hold their shape while softening slightly during baking, giving you that perfect tender yet structured filling.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine and use coconut cream or a non-dairy whipping cream in place of heavy cream. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious!

How can I make the biscuit topping crispier?

Sprinkling turbinado or sanding sugar on top before baking adds a lovely crunch. Also, avoid covering the cobbler tightly while baking so the biscuits can brown properly.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can easily double the Apple Cranberry Cobbler Recipe. Just use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time accordingly, checking for a golden topping and bubbly filling as cues.

Final Thoughts

Making this Apple Cranberry Cobbler Recipe feels like opening a warm hug from the inside, delivering cozy flavors and a comforting texture that everyone will love. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether it’s a casual weeknight dessert or a celebratory centerpiece. So, grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and trust me, this cobbler will become one of your favorite recipes to make and share again and again.