Apple Pandowdy – Rustic, Warm, and Comfortingly Sweet

Apple Pandowdy is a nostalgic dessert that brings all the warmth of a homemade pie—but in a simpler, more rustic form. With tender spiced apples baked beneath a golden biscuit-like topping, this skillet treat is designed for cozy evenings and family-style gatherings. Lightly sweetened and rich in natural fruit flavor, it offers a satisfying end to any meal without overdoing it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cozy Apple Flavor – Warm spices and fresh apples make this dessert feel like a hug in a bowl.
Old-Fashioned Charm – A classic dessert with rustic appeal and simple ingredients.
Lightened Up – Less sugar and butter, but all the homemade goodness.
Bakes in One Dish – No-fuss cleanup, just stir, top, and bake.

Ingredients

For the apple filling:

• 4 cups thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
• 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• Pinch of salt

For the topping:

• ¾ cup whole wheat flour
• 1 tbsp brown sugar or sweetener
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ⅛ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp cold light butter or margarine
• ⅓ cup low-fat milk
• Optional: a light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top

Instructions

1. Prep the Oven and Apples
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8-inch oven-safe skillet or baking dish.

2. Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, toss the apple slices with maple syrup, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and salt. Spread the mixture evenly in the skillet.

3. Mix the Topping
In another bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk to form a soft dough.

4. Top and Bake
Drop spoonfuls of the dough over the apples—no need to cover them completely. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbling.

5. Cool and Serve
Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm as-is or with a dollop of light whipped topping or Greek yogurt.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 210
Protein: 3g
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 18g

Tips for Success

🍏 Use Firm Apples – They hold their shape and texture during baking.
🌾 Don’t Overwork the Dough – Light hands keep the topping tender and fluffy.
🔥 Bubble Test – Bake until the apple mixture bubbles at the edges for best texture.
🍦 Top It Off – A spoonful of vanilla Greek yogurt or frozen yogurt makes a lovely finish.

Why This Recipe Works

Apple Pandowdy delivers the flavors of traditional apple pie with a faster, lighter approach. The biscuit topping is quicker than crust and allows the apples to shine. With just the right balance of sweetness and spice, it’s a go-to dessert that feels special without being complicated.

Apple Pandowdy is the perfect dessert when you crave old-fashioned comfort with a modern twist. Easy to prepare and full of naturally sweet fruit and warm spices, it’s the kind of treat you can feel good about serving any night of the week.