BAKED APRICOT COBBLER WITH LEMON ZEST AND CREAMY CRUST
Apricots transform beautifully in the oven, intensifying their tartness and aroma. Enhanced by lemon zest, this cobbler features a thin, crisp top crust with a creamy, pudding-like layer beneath and hints of sponge cake texture. Adapted from Renee Erickson’s peach cobbler recipe.
⏲️ Prep Time: 20 min
🔥 Cook Time: 1 hour
🍽️ Yields: 6 servings
🥣 Ingredients
Fruit layer:
- 1.2 kg apricots (firm, not too soft)
- 50 g sugar
- Zest of 1 small organic lemon
Crust:
- 120 g butter (room temperature)
- 100 g sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 200 g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 180 ml milk
Topping:
- 50 g sugar
- 50 ml hot water
👩🍳 Instructions
- Halve and pit the apricots. Arrange them cut-side up in a single, slightly packed layer in a 22 x 33 cm ovenproof dish. Sprinkle with sugar mixed with lemon zest.
- In a bowl, cream butter and 100 g sugar with a mixer for 1 minute. Add flour and baking powder and mix at low speed (or fold in manually) until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add milk, mixing until combined, then beat for 1 minute until creamy.
- Spread the crust evenly and thinly over the apricots.
- Sprinkle remaining 50 g sugar over the crust and pour hot water evenly on top to help dissolve the sugar.
- Bake immediately at 180°C (350°F) for 1 hour. The apricots will cook through while the crust browns and crisps on top, creating a creamy pudding-like layer beneath.
- Serve warm; do not slice. Spoon portions directly from the dish into bowls.
💡 Tips
- Use firm apricots to maintain shape during baking.
- Pouring hot water over sugar helps create a crisp, caramelized topping.
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
- No slicing needed—spoon out the cobbler for a rustic presentation.
🎉 Perfect For
- Cozy desserts and family gatherings
- Summer fruit celebrations
- Comfort food lovers who enjoy warm, fruity puddings
📝 Final Thoughts
This apricot cobbler offers a perfect harmony of tart fruit and sweet, creamy crust with textural contrasts. The lemon zest brightens the dish, making it an irresistible treat that’s easy to prepare and enjoy.