Apple Pan Dowdy Recipe

Indulge in this classic Apple Pan Dowdy recipe, a nostalgic treat from the March 1981 Bon Appetit magazine! Bursting with juicy apples, crunchy nuts, and sweet raisins, this comforting dessert features warm spices, brown sugar, and molasses baked under a flaky, rich pastry crust. Forget the cake-like toppers – this version delivers pure pan dowdy perfection. Get ready for a taste of old-fashioned goodness!

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 80 mins
Calories 315.3 kcal
Protein 4g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Apple Pan Dowdy

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Apple Pan Dowdy

  • Dark Brown Sugar
  • All Purpose Flour
  • Cinnamon
  • Clove
  • Nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • Tart Green Apples
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • Walnuts
  • Pie Pastry
  • Sugar

How to Make Apple Pan Dowdy

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the peeled, cored, and sliced apples, brown sugar, molasses, raisins, chopped nuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Toss gently to coat.
  3. Pour the apple mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt, and cold butter. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  5. Gradually add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
  6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and place it over the apple filling. Trim and crimp the edges.
  7. Cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
  8. Bake for 60-80 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
  9. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream (optional).

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

0 g

Sugar

208g

Fat

3g

Carbs

22g