Introduction
Cherry cobbler is a beloved classic in American baking. With juicy cherries bubbling beneath a golden, buttery crust, it’s comfort food at its finest. Unlike pie, cobbler is quicker and simpler but still delivers that rustic, homemade taste everyone loves. Whether served warm with vanilla ice cream or enjoyed plain, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy night in.
Ingredients
For the Cherry Filling:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- ½ cup water (or cherry juice)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp almond extract (optional, enhances cherry flavor)
For the Cobbler Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into cubes)
- ½ cup buttermilk (or whole milk)
Optional Topping:
- 1 tbsp coarse sugar (for sprinkling)
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven – Heat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Prepare Filling – In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until mixture thickens and becomes glossy. Stir in almond extract. Pour into the prepared dish.
- Make Topping – In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. Cut in cold butter with a pastry cutter (or fork) until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in buttermilk until just combined (don’t overmix).
- Assemble Cobbler – Drop spoonfuls of the batter over the cherry filling, leaving some gaps so steam can escape. Sprinkle coarse sugar on top if desired.
- Bake – Bake for 35–40 minutes, until topping is golden brown and filling is bubbly.
- Cool Slightly – Let rest for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Methods
- Traditional Method – Made with fresh cherries in summer, giving it the best flavor.
- Shortcut Method – Use canned cherry pie filling for a quick version (reduce sugar in recipe).
- Dutch Oven Method – Popular for camping; bake cobbler over hot coals with the same recipe.
History
Cobbler originated in the American colonies in the 1800s. British settlers improvised pies using available ingredients, often topping fruit with biscuit dough instead of a traditional pie crust. It became a staple of Southern cuisine, with variations like peach, apple, and blackberry cobbler. Today, cherry cobbler remains one of the most iconic versions, often associated with summertime and family gatherings.
Benefits
- Nutritional Boost – Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber.
- Mood Enhancer – The natural compounds in cherries may help improve sleep and reduce stress.
- Homemade Goodness – Healthier than store-bought desserts since you control sugar and ingredients.
- Versatile – Can be made with fresh, frozen, or canned cherries.
Nutrition (per serving, approx. based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 280
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
Conclusion
Cherry cobbler is more than just a dessert—it’s tradition, comfort, and a sweet slice of history. Its bubbling cherry filling, topped with a golden, buttery crust, makes it irresistible. Whether you’re making it for family, guests, or yourself, it’s best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
