Easy Cherry Cobbler Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that practically makes itself—and fills your kitchen with the blissful scent of bubbling cherries and golden, buttery crust—this Easy Cherry Cobbler is about to become your new favorite. Juicy cherries, a melt-in-your-mouth batter, and a hint of almond come together in a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how a handful of simple ingredients—each one playing a starring role—can create such an unforgettable Easy Cherry Cobbler. Here’s what makes this cobbler so special, and how every element adds to its flavors and texture.

• Fresh sweet cherries (4 cups, pitted & halved): These deliver that signature ruby color and juicy, sweet-tart flavor. Dark sweet cherries are my go-to, but Rainier or a blend are lovely too!
• Unsalted butter (6 Tbsp): Melted right in the pan, it forms the cobbler’s irresistible golden crust and infuses the whole dessert with rich, buttery flavor.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup): The base of the batter, ensuring a tender, lightly cake-like texture without fuss.
• Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Adds just the right amount of sweetness, letting those cherries shine. Bump it up a bit if using tart or sour cherries.
• Baking powder (1 tsp): Lifts the batter so it bakes up puffy and light around the fruit.
• Salt (1/4 tsp): A pinch brings balance and enhances all those cherry and buttery notes.
• Whole milk (1 cup): For richness and moisture; nondairy options work beautifully too.
• Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp): Brings out the warmth and roundness in every bite.
• Almond extract (1/4 tsp): The secret twist! It’s subtle, but it lifts the cherry flavor and makes each spoonful sing.
• Coarse sugar (optional, for topping): A little crunch and sparkle for presentation—totally irresistible if you ask me.

Variations

The beauty of this Easy Cherry Cobbler is how easily it welcomes your own twist. Have a bounty of berries? Baking for a crowd with dietary needs? It’s a breeze to customize—here are some of my favorite ways to make it your own.

• Use Mixed Berries: Swap the cherries for a mix of raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries (just remember to adjust the sugar for tart fruits).
• Go Dairy-Free: Plant-based milk and vegan butter work seamlessly, giving you a homemade cobbler everyone can enjoy.
• Sour Cherry Cobbler: Bump the sugar up to 1 cup and enjoy that delightful tart-sweet contrast.
• Almond-Free/Lemon Zest: Skip the almond extract and add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a citrus-kissed finish that’s so bright and summery.

How to Make Easy Cherry Cobbler

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Place the butter pieces in your chosen baking dish—whether it’s a 9-inch pie dish, square pan, or trusty cast iron skillet—and let them melt in the oven while it heats. This step not only saves time, but creates the buttery base that gives every cobbler bite pure magic.

Step 2: Whisk Up the Batter

While the butter’s melting, quickly whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt together in a large bowl. Then pour in the milk, vanilla, and almond extract, whisking until your batter is thick, glossy, and utterly smooth—no lumps allowed!

Step 3: Layer Cherries and Batter

Carefully remove your hot baking dish from the oven (those buttery edges will be bubbling!) and scatter the pitted cherries evenly over the melted butter. Then pour the batter over top, letting it flow between and over the fruit—don’t stir! The batter will bake up around the cherries for that classic cobbler look.

Step 4: Top and Bake

If you’d like, sprinkle some coarse sugar on top for sparkle and extra crunch. Bake for 55–60 minutes, covering loosely with foil halfway through if the top gets golden too quickly. Check with a toothpick—a few moist crumbs are fine. The real reward is that sun-kissed, bubbling finish!

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Set the cobbler on a wire rack and let it cool for at least 5 minutes before digging in. This short rest helps the fruit and juices settle, guaranteeing perfect, hefty scoops that are still deliciously warm.

How to Serve Easy Cherry Cobbler

Garnishes

For the dreamiest finish, pile a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or softly whipped cream right on top of your warm Easy Cherry Cobbler. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of toasted almonds adds an extra bit of flair and flavor that makes each serving feel special.

Side Dishes

This cobbler shines on its own, but try serving it alongside a simple fruit salad, some tangy yogurt, or crisp lemony shortbread cookies for a complete dessert spread that feels like summer on a plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Scoop your Easy Cherry Cobbler into pretty ramekins for individual treats, or bake mini versions in muffin tins for a picnic-friendly twist. Garnish each with a cherry on top and a sprig of mint for a burst of fresh color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cobbler keeps beautifully! Cover it tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The fruit may soften a touch, but the buttery, cake-like topping stays delicious—if you can make it last that long.

Freezing

Baked Easy Cherry Cobbler freezes like a dream. Let it cool completely, then cover well and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for a taste of summer, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, pop covered cobbler in a 300°F (149°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. For a quick treat, you can also microwave individual portions for 30–40 seconds, but the oven keeps that crust lightly crisp.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re in need of a simple, heartwarming dessert that never fails to delight, this Easy Cherry Cobbler is truly a must-bake. The combination of sweet-tart cherries and a buttery, golden topping is pure comfort—so go ahead, grab some fresh cherries, and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to a spoonful of happiness!

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