Old-Fashioned Escalloped Apples: A Comforting Classic Recipe

Escalloped apples, also known as scalloped apples, is a timeless dessert that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. This simple yet satisfying dish combines tender, spiced apples with a buttery, crumbly topping, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. It’s the perfect way to showcase the abundance of fall apples and a fantastic alternative to apple pie, requiring less fuss and delivering equally delicious results. This recipe provides detailed steps to guide you through creating a truly memorable escalloped apples experience. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Escalloped Apples Recipe

* **Comfort Food at Its Finest:** The warm, spiced apples and the buttery crumb topping create a comforting and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
* **Simple to Make:** Escalloped apples requires minimal ingredients and simple techniques, making it an accessible recipe for bakers of all skill levels.
* **Uses Seasonal Apples:** This recipe is a fantastic way to showcase the deliciousness of fall apples.
* **Versatile and Customizable:** You can easily adapt this recipe to your liking by using different types of apples, adding nuts or dried fruit, or adjusting the spices.
* **Easily Scalable:** Need to feed a crowd? Simply double or triple the recipe to fit your baking dish.

What are Escalloped Apples?

Before we jump into the recipe, let’s clarify what exactly escalloped apples are. The term “escalloped” refers to a dish baked with a breadcrumb topping. Unlike apple pie, which has a pastry crust, escalloped apples feature a buttery, crumbly topping made from flour, butter, sugar, and spices. The apples are typically sliced and layered with the crumb mixture, then baked until tender and golden brown.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to create this classic dessert:

* **Apples:** 6-8 medium apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji). A mix of sweet and tart apples works best.
* **All-Purpose Flour:** 1 cup. Forms the base of the crumb topping.
* **Granulated Sugar:** 3/4 cup. Adds sweetness to both the apples and the topping. Adjust to your preference depending on the sweetness of the apples.
* **Brown Sugar:** 1/2 cup. Provides a rich, molasses-like flavor to the topping.
* **Butter:** 1/2 cup (1 stick), cold and cut into small cubes. The cold butter is crucial for creating a crumbly texture.
* **Ground Cinnamon:** 1 teaspoon. A classic spice that complements apples perfectly.
* **Ground Nutmeg:** 1/2 teaspoon. Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
* **Salt:** 1/4 teaspoon. Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
* **Lemon Juice:** 1 tablespoon. Prevents the apples from browning and adds a touch of acidity.
* **Optional Additions:**
* 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
* 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Equipment You’ll Need

* **9×13 inch baking dish:** The ideal size for this recipe.
* **Large bowl:** For mixing the crumb topping.
* **Small bowl:** For tossing the apples with lemon juice and spices.
* **Apple peeler, corer, and slicer (optional):** Makes prepping the apples much easier, but a knife and cutting board work just as well.
* **Measuring cups and spoons:** For accurate ingredient measurement.
* **Pastry blender or fork:** For cutting the butter into the flour.
* **Oven:** Preheated to 350°F (175°C).

Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Escalloped Apples

Now, let’s get to the fun part – making the escalloped apples! Follow these detailed steps for a guaranteed delicious outcome.

**Step 1: Prepare the Apples**

* **Peel, core, and slice the apples:** Peel the apples, remove the cores, and slice them into approximately 1/4-inch thick slices. Aim for uniform slices for even cooking.
* **Toss with lemon juice and spices:** In a small bowl, combine the apple slices with lemon juice, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss gently to coat the apples evenly. This step not only prevents browning but also infuses the apples with flavor.

**Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping**

* **Combine dry ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar, brown sugar, and any optional spices like cloves or ginger.
* **Cut in the butter:** Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The key is to work quickly to keep the butter cold. Small pieces of butter are essential for creating a crumbly topping. If you don’t have a pastry blender, use two knives to cut the butter in a criss-cross motion.
* **Add optional nuts:** If using, stir in the chopped nuts into the crumb mixture.

**Step 3: Assemble the Escalloped Apples**

* **Layer apples and crumb topping:** Grease the 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange half of the apple slices in an even layer at the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle half of the crumb topping evenly over the apples. Repeat with the remaining apple slices and crumb topping. You should have two layers of apples and two layers of topping.
* **Dot with butter (optional):** For an extra buttery topping, dot the top layer with a few tablespoons of butter cut into small pieces. This will help the topping brown nicely and add richness.

**Step 4: Bake the Escalloped Apples**

* **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown and bubbly. The baking time may vary depending on your oven and the type of apples you use. To check for doneness, insert a fork into the apples; they should be easily pierced.
* **Let cool slightly:** Remove the escalloped apples from the oven and let them cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to thicken slightly and prevents burning your mouth.

Tips for Perfect Escalloped Apples

* **Use a Mix of Apples:** A combination of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, provides the best flavor balance.
* **Don’t Overmix the Crumb Topping:** Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough topping. Mix just until the butter is incorporated.
* **Keep the Butter Cold:** Cold butter is essential for creating a crumbly topping. If the butter gets too warm, the topping will be greasy and less crumbly.
* **Adjust the Sweetness:** Taste the apples after tossing them with sugar and spices. Adjust the amount of sugar to your liking, depending on the sweetness of the apples.
* **Prevent Burning:** If the topping starts to brown too quickly, tent the baking dish with foil for the remaining baking time.
* **Add a Streusel Topping:** Instead of a crumb topping, you can use a streusel topping made with oats, flour, butter, and sugar. This will give the escalloped apples a slightly different texture and flavor.
* **Experiment with Spices:** Try adding other spices like cardamom, allspice, or ginger to customize the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Escalloped apples are delicious served warm or at room temperature. Here are some serving suggestions:

* **Plain:** Enjoy a simple slice of escalloped apples on its own.
* **With Ice Cream:** Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic and comforting dessert.
* **With Whipped Cream:** A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch.
* **With Caramel Sauce:** Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra decadent treat.
* **For Breakfast:** Serve alongside yogurt or granola for a comforting and satisfying breakfast.

Variations and Adaptations

* **Gluten-Free Escalloped Apples:** Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
* **Vegan Escalloped Apples:** Substitute vegan butter for the dairy butter and use plant-based milk if needed to bind the topping.
* **Individual Escalloped Apples:** Bake the escalloped apples in individual ramekins for a charming presentation.
* **Add Other Fruits:** Incorporate other fruits like pears, cranberries, or blueberries for a unique flavor combination.

Storage Instructions

* **Store:** Leftover escalloped apples can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheat:** Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions.
* **Freeze:** While not ideal (the topping can become a bit soggy), you can freeze escalloped apples. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Escalloped Apples Recipe

Here’s the full recipe for you to print or save:

**Yields:** 8 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 35-45 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 6-8 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji), peeled, cored, and sliced
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup brown sugar
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold butter, cut into small cubes
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts, 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a small bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar, brown sugar, and any optional spices.
4. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped nuts, if using.
5. Arrange half of the apple slices in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the crumb topping evenly over the apples. Repeat with the remaining apple slices and crumb topping. Dot with extra butter if desired.
6. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown and bubbly. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, tent the baking dish with foil.
7. Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

* Calories: 300-350
* Fat: 15-20g
* Saturated Fat: 9-12g
* Cholesterol: 40-50mg
* Sodium: 100-150mg
* Carbohydrates: 40-50g
* Fiber: 3-5g
* Sugar: 25-30g
* Protein: 2-3g

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

Final Thoughts

Escalloped apples is a comforting and delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy instructions, you can enjoy this classic treat in no time. So gather your apples, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the warmth and nostalgia of homemade escalloped apples. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

* **Can I use different types of apples?**
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties. A mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, works best. Other good options include Gala, Fuji, and Braeburn.
* **Can I make this ahead of time?**
You can prepare the apples and the crumb topping separately ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble and bake. Assembling the dish too far in advance might make the topping soggy.
* **How do I prevent the topping from burning?**
If the topping starts to brown too quickly, tent the baking dish with foil for the remaining baking time.
* **Can I add nuts to the topping?**
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds add a delightful crunch to the topping.
* **What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?**
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions.
* **Why is my topping not crumbly?**
The most common reason for a non-crumbly topping is that the butter was too warm. Make sure to use cold butter and work quickly when cutting it into the flour. Also, avoid overmixing the topping.
* **Can I use a different type of sweetener?**
Yes, you can substitute the granulated sugar with other sweeteners like coconut sugar or maple syrup, but the flavor and texture may be slightly different.
* **Do I need to peel the apples?**
While peeling the apples is traditional, you can leave the peels on if you prefer. Just make sure to wash the apples thoroughly.

This detailed recipe and guide should help you create a perfect batch of escalloped apples. Enjoy baking!