Cherry cobbler, with its luscious cherry filling and tender, crumbly topping, is a dessert that embodies comfort and simplicity. This homemade cherry cobbler recipe is designed to wow your guests, whether you're serving it at a casual family dinner or a more formal gathering. By following this guide, you'll learn how to make a cherry cobbler that stands out for its delightful taste and eye-catching presentation.
Ingredients
To get started on your easy homemade cherry cobbler, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups of fresh cherries, pitted (you can use frozen if fresh aren't in season)
- 3/4 cup of sugar for the cherries
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup of cornstarch
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar for the topping
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar for the topping
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 1/4 cup of boiling water
- 1 tablespoon of coarse sugar or sanding sugar for sprinkling on top
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch baking dish with butter or a non-stick spray.
Make the Cherry Filling
- In a large bowl, combine the cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Stir in the cornstarch until evenly mixed.
- Transfer this mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Prepare the Topping
- In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use your fingers, a pastry cutter, or a fork to cut the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Drizzle the boiling water over the mixture, mixing gently just until the dough comes together.
Bake the Cobbler
- Spoon the topping over the cherries in dollops. Do not cover the cherries completely; you want some fruit to peek through for a rustic look.
- Sprinkle the coarse sugar over the topping for extra texture and shine.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-55 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbly.
🍒 Note: Ensure not to overwork the dough as it should remain crumbly for the best texture.
Serving
Let the cobbler cool slightly before serving. It can be served warm, at room temperature, or even slightly chilled. Consider these serving options:
- With a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
- With a dollop of whipped cream or custard.
- Drizzled with a warm sauce made from reducing leftover cherry juice or adding a bit more lemon juice for tanginess.
Your homemade cherry cobbler is now ready to impress! Remember, the beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity and the richness of its flavors. The combination of tart cherries with a sweet, crumbly topping creates a memorable eating experience. The joy of preparing a dessert like this isn't just in the eating, but in the anticipation and presentation, making it a delightful conclusion to any meal. Whether for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday celebrations, this cherry cobbler will evoke comfort and satisfaction, reminding us of the simple pleasures of home cooking.
Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
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Yes, frozen cherries can be used in place of fresh. Simply thaw them completely, drain the excess liquid, and adjust the sugar content if the cherries are pre-sweetened.
How do I pit cherries without a cherry pitter?
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A simple method is to use a metal straw or paper clip. Push it through the cherry where the stem was, and the pit will pop out on the other side.
Can the cobbler topping be made ahead?
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Yes, you can prepare the topping in advance. Keep it refrigerated in an airtight container, and sprinkle it over the cherries just before baking to ensure it remains light and crumbly.
What can I do if my cherry filling is too runny?
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If the filling seems too loose, you can either increase the amount of cornstarch or simmer the cherry mixture on the stove until it thickens before adding it to the baking dish.
How should I store leftover cherry cobbler?
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Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave to serve. The cobbler can also be frozen; wrap it well, and it will keep for up to three months.
