Cherry Cobbler

Cherry Cobbler is a delightful dessert that showcases the deliciousness of bing cherries. This sweet treat is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or a cozy evening at home. With its warm, gooey filling and fluffy topping, Cherry Cobbler brings comfort and joy to any occasion. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both novice and seasoned bakers alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Cherry Cobbler comes together in just 40 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute dessert.
• Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy it warm with a scoop of ice cream or chilled as a refreshing treat.
• Fruity Goodness: The star ingredient, bing cherries, provides a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Sharing: With nine servings, this recipe is great for family gatherings or potlucks.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with other fruits for a unique twist on the classic cobbler.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy bottom saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Baking dish (2 1/2 quart)
• Whisk
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy bottom saucepan: Ensures even heating while cooking the cherry mixture to prevent burning.
• Mixing bowls: Ideal for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Baking dish: Provides enough space for even baking of your Cherry Cobbler.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing dry ingredients and incorporating air into the batter for fluffiness.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients:
– 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)
– 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 (190°C) so it’s ready when you’re done preparing the cobbler.

Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling

1. Place the pitted cherries in a heavy bottom saucepan.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the water and cornstarch until well combined.
3. Pour this mixture over the cherries.
4. Add sugar to the cherries and stir gently.
5. Cook over medium heat until the cherry mixture thickens (about 5–7 minutes).
6. Once thickened, taste and add lemon juice as desired; cover to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, 1/4 cup sugar, and baking powder.
2. Cut in the cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until crumbly.
3. In another bowl, mix together egg and buttermilk; stir quickly into the flour mixture until just combined.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the hot cherry mixture into a greased baking dish.
2. Use a fork to drop spoonfuls of dough on top of the cherries evenly.
3. Sprinkle remaining sugar over the dough pieces.
4. Bake in preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes or until the dough is golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Cherry Cobbler warm or cold!

How to Serve Cherry Cobbler

Cherry cobbler is a delightful dessert that brings a taste of summer to your table. It can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing its flavors and textures. Here are some serving suggestions to make your cherry cobbler experience even more enjoyable.

À La Mode

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of the warm cherry cobbler for a creamy contrast to the tart cherries.

With Whipped Cream

• Serve with freshly whipped cream for a light and fluffy topping that balances the sweetness.

Over Pancakes

• Use cherry cobbler as a topping for pancakes or waffles at brunch for a fruity twist.

With Yogurt

• Pair it with Greek yogurt for a healthier option that adds protein and tanginess.

As a Parfait

• Layer cherry cobbler with granola and yogurt in a glass for an impressive dessert parfait.

Warm or Cold

• Enjoy it warm straight from the oven or cold from the fridge, allowing you to savor its flavors at any temperature.

How to Perfect Cherry Cobbler

A few tips can elevate your cherry cobbler from good to great. Keep these in mind while preparing your dish.

• Choose Quality Cherries: Fresh or frozen bing cherries will provide the best flavor and texture. Look for plump, juicy cherries if using fresh.

• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the cherry mixture before baking and adjust sugar levels according to your preference. This ensures balanced sweetness.

• Don’t Overmix Dough: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. This keeps the dough light and fluffy for a better texture.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Keeping butter and buttermilk cold helps create a flaky topping. Chill them before use for optimal results.

• Experiment with Spices: Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile of your cherry filling, giving it extra warmth.

• Let It Rest: After baking, let your cobbler rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to settle, making it easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Cobbler

Pairing side dishes with cherry cobbler can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent side options that complement this sweet treat perfectly.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that melts beautifully over warm cobbler.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness.
3. Savory Biscuits: Flaky biscuits provide a nice contrast to the sweet flavors of cherry cobbler.
4. Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola adds texture and makes for an interesting pairing.
5. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie provide creaminess that complements the fruitiness.
6. Herbed Scones: Savory scones add an aromatic touch that contrasts well with sweet desserts.
7. Lemonade: A refreshing drink option that cuts through the sweetness of the dessert.
8. Cold Brew Coffee: The bitterness of coffee pairs nicely with sweet treats like cherry cobbler.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making cherry cobbler can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong cherries: Ensure you use ripe bing cherries for the best flavor. If they’re not in season, consider using frozen cherries that are pitted and sweetened.
• Not thickening the filling properly: Always mix cornstarch with water before adding it to the cherry mixture. This prevents clumping and ensures a smooth filling.
• Overmixing the dough: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cobbler topping.
• Skipping the lemon juice: Adding lemon juice enhances the flavor of the cherries. Don’t skip this step; it balances sweetness and acidity.
• Not preheating the oven: Preheating your oven ensures even baking. Make sure it reaches 375°F before placing your cobbler inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cherry Cobbler

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Cherry Cobbler

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
• Stovetop: Warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making cherry cobbler.

What is Cherry Cobbler?

Cherry cobbler is a delicious dessert made with fresh or frozen cherries topped with a light, fluffy dough. It’s perfect served warm or cold!

Can I use other fruits for a cobbler?

Yes! You can substitute cherries with other fruits like peaches, blueberries, or apples for different flavors.

How do I make Cherry Cobbler with canned cherries?

Simply drain the canned cherries and follow the same recipe by mixing them with sugar and cornstarch before adding the topping.

Is there a gluten-free option for Cherry Cobbler?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends specifically designed for baking.

Can I make Cherry Cobbler ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and topping separately, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Cobbler recipe showcases the sweet and tart flavors of bing cherries, making it a summer favorite. Its versatility allows for various fruit substitutions, catering to different tastes. Don’t hesitate to customize your cobbler with spices or nuts; it’s bound to impress anyone who tries it! Enjoy this delightful dish warm or cold!