Fruit Cobbler Mix Has Multiple Uses

By James Olson


Many consider dessert to be the final close to a perfect meal. However, there are some home cooks that see making dessert as an extra step that can be avoided, especially if it involves using the oven. Even if a person has a sweet tooth every so often, having fruit cobbler mix in the pantry may save time by making many dessert treats.

Many people think of cobbler or pie as an indulgent treat but this does not have to be. While served warm with vanilla ice cream, hot caramel sauce, or a sweet buttery crumb topping, at most restaurants, home versions allow more portion control. There are even ways to make the basic ingredients less fattening since that main ingredient is fruit, which is good for the body.

Most recipes call for filling that is made up of chopped or sliced fruit, white sugar, spices, and cornstarch for a thicker consistency. Some home cooks may buy this premade pie filling, which is quick but may not be best for anyone trying to lose weight. A lighter filling can be made with fruit juice concentrate and unsweetened applesauce for a denser texture. If the latter does not sound appealing, just add more fresh fruit.

It may be best to cut fruit into smaller pieces for faster cooking unless the mixture is to be cooked beforehand. If the mixture is not sweet enough, a tablespoon of honey or agave nectar syrup may be used. Since the taste is much sweeter than white sugar, try not to go overboard. Anyone trying this for the first time may want to taste the filling before adding the mixture.

Some parents like to use the crumbles to breakfast, as this is a popular mix in for oatmeal. Kids tend to like the sweetness and parents know this is a better choice than some cold cereals that are loaded with sugar. Also, rolled oats may be added to mix before baking.

Chopped nuts may be mixed in the cobbler mix for more texture and flavor. Most people like to add sliced or chopped almonds, macadamia nuts, or pecan halves. Also, substituting melted butter with canola oil cuts back on the saturated fat and cholesterol. While more expensive, coconut oil is also a popular choice for baking sweets.

Sometimes, this mixture can be used to stretch some recipes like apple cornbread stuffing, coating for fried chicken, or teriyaki pineapple meatballs. The baked crumble mixture can also be used to top ice cream or added to a banana foster recipe. Some people like to add these to cool fruit cups or yogurt.

Making this dish is fairly easy, as it requires no more than a couple of dishes for mixing and baking. If there is too much cobbler left over after a while, it can be baked by itself and used as a dessert topping. Some suggested uses include a fruit or yogurt parfait, ice cream, or when mixed with roasted nuts, a satisfying snack.




About the Author:



Comments