Family Dining with a View.Photo byDown South Today

Autumn heralds the arrival of fresh, ripe apples from orchards in the Deep South. This time of year we indulge in delectable apple desserts, especially classic apple cobbler, a cherished favorite. As the crisp air carries the scent of cinnamon and sugar mingling with the earthy aroma of apples, families gather around kitchen tables to share stories and savor each spoonful of warm apple cobbler. The sweet apples, nestled beneath a buttery, golden crust, evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia that transcends generations, making it a beloved tradition in Southern households.

A Mill in Rabun GapPhoto byDown South Today

In the Blue Ridge Mountains, the apple orchards bustle with activity as locals and tourists alike flock to pick their own apples, reveling in the simple pleasure of hand-selecting the perfect fruits for their homemade desserts. Whether enjoyed on a cool evening by the fireplace or served at a festive gathering, apple cobbler embodies the essence of fall in the South—a time of abundance, community, and the joy of celebrating nature's bounty.

Seasonal and Delicious Apple Cobbler.Photo byDown South Today

Rabun Gap Apple Cobbler

Ingredients:

6 cups sliced Granny Smith apples

3/4 cup white sugar

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1/4 cup dark rum

1/4 cup flour

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup hot water

1-1/2 tablespoon salted butter

In a large bowl, combine all filling ingredients (except butter). Pour into a square lightly buttered baking dish.

Place butter on top of filling in the center.

Cobbler Topping:

1 cup all-purpose White Lily flour

1/4 cup white sugar

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons softened salted butter

1 fresh egg

Prepare topping by mixing all topping ingredients in a separate bowl.

Mix until batter is smooth. Drop batter evenly on top of the filling with a spoon.

Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.

Serve with quality vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Encourage second helpings.