Southern Skillet Apple Butter Cobbler

In Southern kitchens, cast-iron skillets turn humble fruit into golden cobblers that feel like home. This version folds rich apple butter into tender apple slices, baking them under a simple batter that crisps at the edges.

Serves 6 · 15 min prep · 40 min cook

Estimate for one serving

• 340 cal
• 4g protein
• 54g carbs
• 13g fat

Every recipe here is free to read.

Ingredients

• 4 medium Honeycrisp or Gala apples
• 1/2 cup apple butter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• 3/4 cup whole milk
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Instructions

1. 1Preheat the oven to 375°F. Place a 10-inch cast-iron skillet in the oven with the butter inside so the butter melts and the pan heats, about 5 minutes.
2. 2While the pan heats, core and slice the apples into thin wedges. Toss them in a bowl with the apple butter, lemon juice, half the cinnamon, and the nutmeg until every slice is glossy and coated.
3. 3In a mixing bowl whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and remaining cinnamon. Pour in the milk and vanilla and stir into a smooth, pourable batter.
4. 4Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Swirl the melted butter to coat, then pour the batter directly into the center of the butter; do not stir.
5. 5Spoon the apple-butter-coated apple mixture evenly over the batter. Some butter will pool at the edges—that creates the crisp, caramelized rim.
6. 6Return the skillet to the oven and bake 35 to 42 minutes until the top is deep golden brown, the edges are bubbling, and the center batter is set.
7. 7Let the cobbler rest 10 minutes so the juices thicken slightly. The top will sound hollow when tapped and smell richly of caramelized apple.
8. 8Scoop into bowls while still warm. The contrast of fluffy cake, jammy apples, and buttery edges is best the same night.