As autumn arrives, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with warm, comforting desserts. One such delight is the apple slump, a rustic New England dessert that combines sweet, tender apples with a soft, biscuit-like topping. This dessert is easy to make, versatile, and the perfect choice for those cozy fall evenings.
In this article, we’ll explore the history of the apple slump, guide you through a simple recipe, and suggest variations to suit any preference. Additionally, we’ll recommend a few internal links to complement your reading experience with relevant recipes from Claire’s Recipes.
The History of the Apple Slump
The apple slump dates back to early New England cuisine, where simple, hearty desserts were a staple. The name “slump” refers to the way the biscuit topping slumps over the fruit as it cooks. This dessert gained popularity because it requires minimal ingredients like apples, sugar, and flour, making it accessible to households everywhere.
You can learn more about other classic desserts, such as the Ultimate Guide to Fudgy Brownies, which shares a similar rustic, homemade charm as the apple slump.
Why the Apple Slump is the Perfect Fall Dessert
Nothing beats the aroma of warm apples and cinnamon baking in the oven. The apple slump is the perfect dessert to serve during the fall, thanks to its use of seasonal apples and comforting flavors like cinnamon and nutmeg. If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive dessert, this is it.
To pair this dessert with other seasonal treats, you might also enjoy this Pumpkin Banana Loaf recipe, another delicious way to celebrate fall flavors.
Traditional Apple Slump Recipe
Ingredients:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup sugar (divided)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ cup butter (chilled, cubed)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the peeled and sliced apples with ¼ cup of sugar and ½ tsp of cinnamon over low heat until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and the remaining sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the milk and stir until just combined.
- Transfer the softened apples to a baking dish and drop spoonfuls of the dough on top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the topping is golden and the apples are bubbling.
For a fun twist, consider pairing this dessert with a comforting beverage like tea. Claire’s Earl Grey Cookies make an excellent companion for any warm fall dessert, including the apple slump.
Apple Slump Variations
The versatility of the apple slump makes it easy to customize. Here are a few ways you can make it your own:
- Mixed Fruit Slump: Add blackberries, pears, or cranberries for a flavor twist.
- Spiced Apple Slump: Enhance the spices with cloves or cardamom for a deeper autumn flavor.
- Gluten-Free Apple Slump: Substitute gluten-free flour to make it suitable for dietary needs.
For those looking for a sweet and simple dessert to accompany this one, try Claire’s Vanilla Bean Cheesecake, another delightful treat that’s sure to impress.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the apple slump warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle caramel sauce over the top. It’s also perfect alongside a cup of apple cider or chai tea.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (serves 6):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 12g
- Sugar: 40g
- Protein: 3g
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use different types of apples?
Yes! Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn work well, but feel free to experiment with your favorite apples. - Can I make the apple slump ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the dish and refrigerate it before baking for up to 24 hours. - Can I freeze the apple slump?
Yes! Once baked, let the slump cool, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. - What should I do if the topping turns out too soggy?
Make sure your apples aren’t too watery before baking. Adding a small amount of cornstarch to the fruit can help absorb excess moisture. - Can I substitute regular flour with almond or coconut flour?
Yes, but the texture may change. You might need to adjust the amount of liquid in the dough.
Conclusion
The apple slump is a delightful, comforting dessert that is easy to make and perfect for fall. With its sweet, spiced apples and soft, biscuit-like topping, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Pair it with other seasonal recipes from Claire’s kitchen for a full fall menu.