Cherry Cobbler

Cherry cobbler is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of summer in every bite. With its juicy bing cherries and tender, fluffy topping, this dish is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual weeknight dinners. The combination of sweet and tart flavors makes cherry cobbler a standout treat that everyone will love. Moreover, it’s easy to prepare, ensuring you can create this delicious dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This cherry cobbler comes together quickly with simple ingredients and minimal steps, making it perfect for beginner bakers.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with a scoop of ice cream or cold as a refreshing snack; it suits any preference.
• Rich Flavor: The use of fresh or frozen bing cherries results in a vibrant flavor that shines through every bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving something sweet at home, this dessert fits right in.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: With nine servings, this recipe is great for sharing or indulging on your own!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cherry cobbler successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can streamline the process and ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottom saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking dish (2 1/2 quart)
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottom saucepan: Provides even heat distribution while cooking the cherry mixture, preventing burning.
• Baking dish: A 2 1/2 quart baking dish allows ample space for the cobbler to rise and brown beautifully.
• Fork: Ideal for dropping dough onto the cherries evenly, creating that rustic cobbler look.

Ingredients

Cherry cobblers made with bing cherries is summer perfection in one dish!

For the Cherry Filling

• 4 cups pitted bing cherries (frozen or fresh)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 1/2 TBSP cornstarch
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1-2 teaspoons lemon juice (to taste)

For the Topping

• 1 cup flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 cup + 2 TBSP sugar (divided)
• 3 TBSP cold butter
• 2 TBSP buttermilk
• 1 egg

How to Make Cherry Cobbler

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures it’s hot enough to bake the cobbler evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling

• Place the cherries in a heavy-bottom saucepan.
• In a separate bowl, mix the water and cornstarch together until smooth.
• Pour this mixture over the cherries.
• Add sugar to the cherries.
• Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add Lemon Juice

Once thickened, taste your cherry mixture. Add 1-2 teaspoons of lemon juice as desired. Cover and keep warm until ready.

Step 4: Make the Topping

• In a mixing bowl, combine flour, 1/4 cup sugar, and baking powder.
• Cut in cold butter until mixed into small crumbs.
• In another bowl, mix together egg and buttermilk.
• Quickly stir this into the flour mixture until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 5: Assemble the Cobbler

Pour the hot cherry mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a fork to drop spoonfuls of dough on top of the cherries evenly.

Step 6: Bake

Sprinkle the remaining sugar over the dough before placing it in the oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and baked through.

Step 7: Serve

Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your cherry cobbler hot or cold!

How to Serve Cherry Cobbler

Cherry cobbler is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer it warm or cold, there are several serving suggestions to enhance its flavors and presentation.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of warm cherry cobbler creates a creamy contrast that complements the tartness of the cherries.

Drizzled with Whipped Cream

• Lightly whipped cream adds a fluffy texture and sweetness that balances the richness of the cobbler.

Paired with Fresh Mint

• Garnishing your cherry cobbler with fresh mint leaves not only adds color but also a refreshing aroma that enhances the overall experience.

Served in Individual Bowls

• For a charming presentation, serve cherry cobbler in individual bowls. This makes it perfect for gatherings and dinner parties.

Topped with Almonds

• Sliced almonds provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the soft, juicy cherries.

How to Perfect Cherry Cobbler

Making the perfect cherry cobbler requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Cherries: Using ripe bing cherries will yield the best flavor and texture. If fresh isn’t available, frozen cherries work well too.

• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your cherry mixture before baking. Depending on your preference, you might want to add more or less sugar.

• Don’t Overmix Dough: When combining your ingredients, mix just until they come together. This keeps the dough light and fluffy for a better texture.

• Experiment with Spices: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra depth of flavor that complements the cherries nicely.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Cobbler

Cherry cobbler pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its sweetness. Here are some great options to consider when serving this dessert.

1. Vanilla Yogurt: A dollop of vanilla yogurt can add creaminess while keeping things light.
2. Pecan Pie: The rich flavors of pecan pie create a delightful contrast to the fruitiness of cherry cobbler.
3. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can provide a refreshing balance and add more color to your dessert table.
4. Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses, especially creamy brie or tangy goat cheese, can enhance the flavors in your cobbler.
5. Chocolate Cake: Rich chocolate cake offers an indulgent option alongside the fruity cobbler.
6. Lemon Sorbet: This refreshing sorbet serves as a palate cleanser and complements the sweet cherries beautifully.
7. Shortbread Cookies: Crunchy shortbread cookies can provide an excellent textural contrast to the soft cobbler.
8. Coffee or Tea: Serving coffee or tea alongside cherry cobbler makes for an inviting end to any meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making cherry cobbler can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using the wrong type of cherries: Always opt for fresh or frozen Bing cherries for the best flavor. Avoid using cherries packed in syrup, as they can make your cobbler overly sweet.
• Not adjusting sugar to taste: Every batch of cherries can vary in sweetness. Always taste your filling before baking and adjust the sugar accordingly to find the right balance.
• Overmixing the dough: When combining ingredients for the topping, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cobbler instead of a light and fluffy topping.
• Skipping the lemon juice: This ingredient brightens up the flavors of your cherry cobbler. Don’t skip it; use enough to enhance the natural tartness of the cherries.
• Neglecting oven temperature: Preheating your oven is essential. A hot oven ensures that the dough bakes evenly and gets that perfect golden color.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cherry cobbler in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cherry Cobbler

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The cobbler can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cherry Cobbler

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings on high for about 30-60 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet on low heat, cover, and heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making cherry cobbler:

Can I use canned cherries for Cherry Cobbler?

Yes, you can use canned cherries, but drain them well and reduce added sugar since they are often packed in syrup.

What is the best way to pit fresh cherries?

Use a cherry pitter if you have one. If not, you can cut them in half and remove the pits with a knife.

How do I know when my Cherry Cobbler is done?

The cobbler is ready when the topping is golden brown and cooked through. You can also check if it’s bubbling around the edges.

Can I make Cherry Cobbler ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it in advance, store it uncooked in the fridge, and bake it just before serving for best results.

Final Thoughts

Cherry cobbler is a delightful dessert that captures summer’s essence. It’s versatile enough for any occasion and easy to customize with different fruits or spices. Try this recipe today and enjoy its comforting warmth!