Cherry Cobbler

Cherry cobbler is a delightful dessert that showcases the sweet, juicy flavor of bing cherries. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy family dinners, this dish combines tender fruit with a light, fluffy topping. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed cold, cherry cobbler is a versatile treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This cherry cobbler comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm or chilled, making it suitable for any occasion.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh cherries and sweet topping creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Perfect for Any Fruit: While this recipe uses bing cherries, you can easily substitute other fruits for variety.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is simple enough for kids to help, making it a fun family activity.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your cherry cobbler, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother.

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: Ensures even cooking of the cherry mixture without burning.
• Mixing bowls: Great for combining ingredients efficiently and prevents spills.
• Baking dish: Provides the right depth for baking; helps with even cooking of the cobbler topping.

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°. This ensures that your cobbler bakes evenly once prepared.

Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling

• Put the cherries into a heavy-bottom saucepan.
• Mix the water and cornstarch together until smooth.
• Pour this mixture over the cherries.
• Add sugar to the pan.
• Cook over medium heat until the cherry mixture thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Add Lemon Juice

Once thickened, taste the mixture and add 1-2 teaspoons of lemon juice as desired. Cover and keep warm while you prepare the topping.

Step 4: Make the Dough Topping

• In a mixing bowl, combine flour, 1/4 cup sugar, and baking powder.
• Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
• In another bowl, mix egg and buttermilk together then stir into the flour mixture quickly. Toss until just combined but leave it light and fluffy.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

• Pour the hot cherry filling into a 2 1/2 quart baking dish.
• Use a fork to drop spoonfuls of dough over the top of the cherries randomly.
• Sprinkle remaining sugar over the dough.

Step 6: Bake Your Cobbler

Bake in preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes or until the dough is golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

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

How to Serve Cherry Cobbler

Serving cherry cobbler can elevate your dessert experience. The warm, sweet flavors of cherry and the delightful biscuit topping make it versatile for various occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your enjoyment.

A La Mode

• Serve warm cherry cobbler with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess perfectly balances the warm cherries.

With Whipped Cream

• Top your cobbler with freshly whipped cream for a light, airy finish that complements the rich flavors of the dish.

Drizzled with Honey

• A drizzle of honey adds an extra layer of sweetness and a unique flavor contrast to the tart cherries.

Almond Slices

• Sprinkle toasted almond slices on top for added texture and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with cherry.

Fresh Mint Garnish

• Add a sprig of fresh mint on top for a pop of color and refreshing aroma, enhancing both presentation and taste.

Over Pancakes or Waffles

• Use cherry cobbler as a topping for pancakes or waffles during brunch. It turns breakfast into an indulgent treat!

How to Perfect Cherry Cobbler

Achieving the perfect cherry cobbler requires attention to detail in both preparation and baking. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Use ripe cherries: Choose fresh, ripe bing cherries for the best balance of sweetness and tartness in your cobbler.
• Adjust sugar levels: Taste the cherry mixture before baking; adjust the sugar as needed based on your preference and the cherries’ natural sweetness.
• Keep dough light: Avoid overmixing the dough when combining ingredients to ensure a fluffy biscuit topping.
• Serve warm: Cherry cobbler is at its best when served warm, allowing the flavors to shine through.
• Experiment with spices: Consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the cherry filling for an extra layer of flavor.
• Try different toppings: Feel free to experiment with other toppings like granola or yogurt for unique serving options.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Cobbler

Pairing side dishes with cherry cobbler can create a balanced meal or snack. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic pairing that enhances the sweetness of cherry cobbler while providing a creamy contrast.

2. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad adds freshness and keeps things vibrant alongside your dessert.

3. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses, such as brie or goat cheese, offers a savory complement to sweet cobbler.

4. Yogurt Parfait
   Layered yogurt with granola can provide both texture and nutrition, making it a great addition.

5. Savory Biscuit Bites
   Lightly seasoned biscuit bites can be a fun contrast against the sweet flavors of cherry cobbler.

6. Green Salad
   A simple mixed green salad dressed lightly can cleanse the palate between bites of sweet dessert.

7. Chocolate Mousse
   For chocolate lovers, pairing chocolate mousse with cherry cobbler creates an indulgent dessert experience.

8. Coffee or Tea
   Serving coffee or herbal tea alongside provides warmth and comfort that complements dessert nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making cherry cobbler, it’s easy to overlook some key aspects that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Using unripe cherries: Ensure you use sweet, ripe bing cherries for the best flavor. Unripe cherries will make your cobbler taste sour and less enjoyable.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined to keep the topping light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense cobbler that lacks texture.
• Skipping the lemon juice: Lemon juice balances the sweetness of the cherries. Don’t skip it; start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to taste.
• Not preheating the oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. A hot oven ensures even cooking and a beautifully golden crust.
• Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on your cobbler towards the end of baking. Depending on your oven, it may need slight adjustments to achieve perfect doneness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cherry cobbler in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cherry Cobbler

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen cherry cobbler can be kept for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cherry Cobbler

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cobbler in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat for 30 seconds, checking if it needs more time.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a little water or cherry juice and cover. Heat gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cherry Cobbler?

Cherry cobbler is a delightful dessert made with sweet cherries baked under a layer of biscuit-like dough. It’s perfect for summer gatherings!

Can I use frozen cherries for Cherry Cobbler?

Yes! Frozen cherries work great in this recipe. Just thaw them before use and drain any excess liquid.

How do I make Cherry Cobbler gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The results will still be delicious!

What can I serve with Cherry Cobbler?

Cherry cobbler pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added creaminess.

Final Thoughts

Cherry cobbler is not only a delicious dessert but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding other fruits or adjusting sweetness levels based on your preference. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every bite of its fruity goodness!