Recipe: Fall Harvest Cobbler

FALL HARVEST COBBLER

"This unique cobbler is a fusion of fruit with apples, pears, plums, raisins and dried apricots. The top crust gives a peak into the cobbler's heart through small leaf-cutouts. Create this flavorsome alternative to the common apple pie for gatherings with family and friends."

CRUST INGREDIENTS:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter, chilled and cut into 12 pieces
1/4 cup vegetable shortening, chilled and cut into 4 pieces
1/4 cup ice water
FILLING INGREDIENTS:
5 Granny Smith apples, cored, peeled, cut into large slices
4 pears, cored, peeled, cut into large slices
6 plums, pitted, cut into large slices
1/2 cup raisins
1 cup dried apricots, halved
2 teaspoons Pure Madagascar Vanilla Extract
1 tablespoon corn starch
2 tablespoons finely grated orange zest
milk
1/3 cup granulated sugar, plus additional for sprinkling

For crust, combine flour, salt, sugar and butter in bowl of food processor. Pulse several times until mixture resembles wet sand. Add shortening, and continue pulsing until bits are about the size of peas. Slowly add ice water and continue pulsing until dough just comes together. Turn out onto a piece of plastic wrap; refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Spray pan with vegetable pan spray.

In large bowl, combine fruit, vanilla, cornstarch and zest; mix gently. Spoon into prepared pan.

Roll chilled dough out on floured surface to a 10 x 14-inch rectangle. Using mini leaf-shaped cookie cutters, cut 8-10 holes from dough. Lay dough over prepared fruit; tuck edges under. Brush surface with milk; sprinkle with sugar.

Bake for 45-55 minutes or until crust is golden.

Serves 12
Source: Wilton