Cherry cobbler is a timeless dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With its sweet, juicy filling and golden, crumbly topping, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re baking with fresh or frozen cherries, this cherry cobbler recipe will have your guests coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into how you can make this delightful dessert!
What You Need to Make Cherry Cobbler
To make a classic cherry cobbler, you’ll need a few simple ingredients and tools. Here’s what you need:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch (for thickening)
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 cup of butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup of milk (or dairy-free substitute)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Tools:
- 9×9-inch baking dish (or equivalent)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Whisk
- Oven
For more details on preparing other types of classic desserts, you can refer to this The Ultimate Guide to Making Arroz con Pollo for some savory inspiration.
How to Prepare the Cherry Filling
The first step in making cherry cobbler is preparing the cherry filling. This is the heart of the dish and where you can get creative with flavorings!
Fresh vs. Frozen Cherries
- Fresh cherries: When in season, fresh cherries are a great choice. Be sure to pit them carefully.
- Frozen cherries: If fresh cherries aren’t available, frozen cherries work just as well. However, thaw them first and drain excess juice to prevent the cobbler from becoming watery.
Flavoring the Cherries
- Add 1 cup of sugar to your cherries to sweeten them. Adjust the amount based on how sweet your cherries are.
- For a touch of acidity and brightness, add a tablespoon of lemon juice.
- If you like a bit of extra flavor, a teaspoon of vanilla extract works wonders.
Thickening the Filling
To ensure your cherry cobbler doesn’t turn out too runny, adding 2 tablespoons of cornstarch will help thicken the filling. Simply toss the cherries in the cornstarch before adding the sugar and lemon juice.
Preparing the Topping for Cherry Cobbler
The topping is what makes cherry cobbler so irresistible. It can range from a biscuit-like topping to a more cake-like texture. Here’s how you can prepare the perfect topping:
Making a Biscuit Topping
- Flour, Baking Powder, Salt: Combine 1 cup of flour with 1 teaspoon of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Butter: Cut in 1/4 cup of melted butter. This creates a flaky, biscuit-like texture.
- Milk: Add 1/2 cup of milk (or a dairy-free option like almond milk) and mix just until combined. The dough will be slightly thick.
Alternatives to Biscuit Topping
- Cake-like topping: Substitute the biscuit topping with a cake batter-style topping for a fluffier texture.
- Crumble topping: Add oats and brown sugar for a crunchy, streusel-style topping.
If you’re into experimenting with different flavors, check out this Ultimate Guide to Making Burnt Ends at Home for creative cooking tips!
Baking the Cherry Cobbler
Once the cherry filling and topping are ready, it’s time to bake. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour the prepared cherry filling into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Spoon the topping evenly over the cherry filling. It’s okay if it’s not fully covering the fruit.
- Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling around the edges.
Signs of Doneness:
- Golden brown, crispy topping
- Bubbles from the cherry filling at the edges of the dish
- A toothpick inserted into the topping comes out clean
Tips for the Perfect Cherry Cobbler
Here are a few pro tips to ensure your cherry cobbler turns out just right:
- If you prefer a less sweet cobbler, reduce the amount of sugar in the cherry filling.
- For a crispy topping, sprinkle a little sugar on top of the biscuit dough before baking.
- Want a deeper cherry flavor? Add a dash of almond extract to the filling.
You can also experiment with baking techniques by checking out The Ultimate Cinnamon Roll Recipe: Fluffy, Gooey, and Irresistible.
Variations of Cherry Cobbler
Cherry cobbler is highly adaptable! Here are a few variations you can try:
- Vegan Cherry Cobbler: Swap the butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil and use non-dairy milk.
- Gluten-Free Cherry Cobbler: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Mini Cherry Cobblers: Make individual servings using ramekins. This is a great option for parties or family gatherings.
How to Serve and Pair Cherry Cobbler
After baking your cherry cobbler, it’s time to think about how to serve it. Here are a few classic serving suggestions:
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
- For a more festive touch, add fresh mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Pair your cobbler with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy dessert experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Cherry Cobbler
To help you avoid common pitfalls, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Too many cherries: Overfilling your baking dish can lead to a soggy cobbler. Stick to the recommended amount of cherries for the best results.
- Underbaking the topping: The topping needs to bake long enough to become golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid a raw center.
- Using the wrong type of topping: Biscuit and cake-like toppings have very different textures. Make sure to choose the one you like best!
Nutritional Information of Cherry Cobbler
If you’re watching your calories, here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional content for a typical serving of cherry cobbler:
- Calories: Around 300-350 calories per serving
- Carbs: 60-70 grams (depending on the sugar and flour used)
- Fat: 10-15 grams
- Protein: 2-3 grams
Healthier Options:
You can cut down on sugar by using natural sweeteners like stevia or honey. Adding oats to the topping can increase fiber content.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions to help with any doubts you might have:
- Can I use frozen cherries for cobbler? Yes, frozen cherries work well, but make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
- Can I make cherry cobbler ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare the filling and topping separately, refrigerate, and assemble the cobbler before baking.
- How can I make a crustier topping? To get a crispier topping, brush the dough with a little butter before baking, and sprinkle some sugar on top.
- Why is my cherry cobbler runny? If your cobbler is too runny, it could be because you used too much juice from the cherries. Try adding a little extra cornstarch or flour to the filling.
Conclusion
Cherry cobbler is a simple yet indulgent dessert that everyone will love. Whether you prefer fresh or frozen cherries, this recipe can be easily adapted to suit your taste. With a few pro tips and tricks, you’ll have the perfect cherry cobbler every time. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a classic, comforting treat!
For more detailed recipes, check out Tastes Better From Scratch’s Cherry Cobbler. Happy baking!
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Cherry Cobbler Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Dessert
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Discover how to make a delicious and easy cherry cobbler recipe with simple ingredients. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert features a sweet, juicy cherry filling topped with a golden, flaky crust. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen cherries, this classic dessert is sure to impress your family and friends. Learn expert tips, variations, and serving suggestions for the perfect cherry cobbler every time.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch (for thickening)
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 cup of butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup of milk (or dairy-free substitute)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the cherry filling:
- In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of pitted cherries (fresh or thawed, if frozen) with 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to help thicken the filling as it bakes. Mix well to coat the cherries evenly.
- Transfer the cherry mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Make the topping:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Add 1/4 cup of melted butter, 1/2 cup of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture forms a thick batter.
- Spoon the batter evenly over the cherry filling. It’s okay if the batter doesn’t fully cover the filling.
- Bake the cobbler:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes.
- The topping should be golden brown and firm, and the cherry filling should be bubbling around the edges.
- Cool and serve:
- Once baked, remove the cobbler from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or enjoy it on its own!
Notes
- Cherry Variations: You can use either fresh or frozen cherries for this recipe. If using frozen cherries, make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the filling to prevent the cobbler from becoming too watery.
- Sugar Adjustments: Depending on the sweetness of your cherries, you may want to adjust the amount of granulated sugar used. If your cherries are particularly tart, feel free to add a little more sugar to the filling.
- Topping Texture: The topping can be made more biscuit-like or cake-like. If you want a biscuit-style topping, use less milk and ensure the butter is cold when mixing. For a fluffier, cake-like topping, add more milk and use room-temperature butter.
- Vegan/Dairy-Free Option: To make the cobbler vegan, substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you’re making a gluten-free version, swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use a blend that is suitable for baking to maintain the cobbler’s texture.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the cherry filling and topping in advance, store them in the fridge, and assemble them just before baking. This is especially helpful when preparing for a party or large gathering.
- Storage: Store leftover cobbler in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual servings for 30-45 seconds.
- Serving Suggestions: Cherry cobbler is fantastic on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a more festive touch, garnish with fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Sugar: 30 grams
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 8 grams
- Carbohydrates: 45 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
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