Learn How to Quickly Slice Apples for Cobbler

Making desserts using fresh apples requires a lot of slicing. While the end result is delicious, the prep work is sometimes a bit time consuming. Using this unique method, you can quickly slice apples for cobbler or crisps and hopefully save a little time.

This kitchen trick, from our friend Registered/Certified Dietitian Nutritionist Erin Burch, allows you to cut off slices of apple lickety-split. We learned about this technique when she visited our kitchen and made her Apple Berry Cobbler recipe for us earlier this year.

Erin uses a 4" Paring Knife to peel the apple and to cut deep scores around its circumference before slicing off pieces that are the perfect size for making an apple dessert. The size of the apple will determine how many times you score around the apple. Watching her video is the best way to understand how it’s done.

The key to this working is to have a sharp Paring Knife. The sharper the knife, the easier it will be to maneuver as you peel the apple. It will also make the cuts around the apple much easier. As with any cutting job, be sure to use extreme caution.

This method is just one way to slice apples. Take a look at our other videos, which will have you cutting the apples on a cutting board: How to Slice Apples and How to Cut Apples.

When it comes to what apples to use in your cobbler or crisp, you’ll want ones that stand up to baking. Honeycrisp, Granny Smith or Gala are good options, due to their crisp, tart flavor.

How to Quickly Slice Apples

1. Peel the apple using a Paring Knife or Vegetable Peeler.
2. Then, about a third of the way down from the stem, carefully cut into and around the apple with the knife, trying not to cut into the core.
3. Depending on the size of the apples, move the knife down the apple and repeat step 2.
4. Once the slice(s) are made, hold the apple upright and slice off pieces.

What's your favorite way to cook with apples?