The crisp air of Autumn makes many people in New England think of apples. And where there are apples, can apple desserts be too far behind?

Apple slump is not something that happens when apple trees don't stand up straight. A slump is a baked or steamed homey, old-fashioned dessert with fruit on the bottom and a batter-based, cakey topping. It might be served with whipped cream or ice cream. Some might also use the name "pan dowdy" for such a concoction.

This recipe below billed as "Louisa May Alcott's Apple Slump" can be found kicking around the Internet in a variety of locations. All iterations we found are identical, regardless of where they were posted.

Is this really LMA's own recipe? It's hard to say: no source information was provided to describe its connection to that most famous Miss Alcott.

It is known that Apple Slump was a popular dessert in her day, and a favorite of the Alcott family. And because of the lovable -- but homely -- character of both the dessert and the house, Louisa nicknamed Orchard House "Apple Slump", so the dish does have a special connection to her.

Take the Louisa May Alcott connection to this recipe below -- like anything found on the Internet -- with a grain of salt. Give it a try and enjoy seeing how this slump turns out.

But stand up straight, for goodness sake!

Possibly Louisa May Alcott's Apple Slump

While this is baking, prepare the topping, starting by sifting together the dry ingredients. In separate bowl, mix the egg, milk and butter and add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring till just combined. Spread the topping over apples and bake at 350F for an additional 25 minutes. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.


Apple background: Hometown Websmith.
Other backgrounds: Culprit Fey.
Apple illustrations: ArtToday.