Grandma'S Apple Grunt
A comforting apple dessert with cinnamon-sugar topping and a tender dough, perfect for family gatherings or cozy weekend treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a medium-sized glass dish with shortening.
- Slice apples and arrange them in the dish until it is two-thirds full.
- Mix 1/2 cup sugar and cinnamon and pour over the apples.
- In a separate bowl, combine shortening, egg, 1/2 cup sugar, flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to form a dough.
- Add enough milk to the mixture to make a thick dough.
- Pour the dough over the apples in the dish.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the dish is cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. If you don't have shortening, butter can be a suitable substitute, giving a slightly different taste and texture. Feel free to add nuts or raisins to the apple layer for extra texture. Make sure to slice the apples evenly to ensure uniform cooking. This dish is similar to Prairie Apple Crunch, so you can explore that for a different take.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful contrast to the warm apples. It pairs beautifully with Grandma Rettig'S Homemade Bread for a hearty meal. This dish can also be enjoyed as a breakfast treat or a sweet snack alongside a cup of tea or coffee.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in a microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain the crispness of the top layer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Apple Grunt contains roughly 396 calories, with 6g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value), protein (13% of the Daily Value), and calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 532mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, this recipe is versatile! You can substitute with pears, peaches, or even mixed berries to create a different flavor profile. Just ensure the fruit is ripe and sliced evenly for consistent cooking.
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
For optimal flavor, use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, which provide a great balance of sweetness and tartness. If you prefer sweeter dishes, Fuji or Gala apples can work well too.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or similar binding agents to help the dough hold together properly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).