If there’s a single dessert that captures the spirit of summer and cozy gatherings, it’s this Cherry Cobbler Recipe. Packed with juicy cherries tucked beneath a golden, biscuit-like topping, every bite manages to feel both perfectly nostalgic and like a joyful celebration. This wonderful treat is proof that simple, classic ingredients can create pure magic. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, you’ll fall in love with how easily this recipe brings out the best in cherries—and in every sweet moment around your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cherry Cobbler Recipe lies in a handful of top-quality, honest ingredients. Each one plays a role in building decadent flavor, gorgeous color, and the perfect comforting texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why they matter:
- Cherries (4 cups, fresh or frozen): These star players give the cobbler its signature juicy burst and stunning color—you can’t have cherry cobbler without them!
- Granulated Sugar (3/4 cup, divided): Adds just the right amount of sweetness, letting the natural flavor of the cherries shine.
- Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon): A splash of lemon brightens the filling, lifting all the flavors so nothing tastes flat or heavy.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Thickens the cherry mixture to the perfect silky consistency for scooping.
- All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): The base of the biscuit topping—goes golden, crisp at the edges, and tender inside.
- Baking Powder (1 1/2 teaspoons): Makes the topping beautifully light and fluffy.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Rounds out the sweetness and adds depth to every bite.
- Unsalted Butter (6 tablespoons, cold and cubed): Creates those irresistible buttery pockets in the topping—keep it cold for best results.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Brings the cobbler topping together and gives it tenderness.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and rounds off the flavors with classic bakery notes.
How to Make Cherry Cobbler Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Cherries
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you are. In a saucepan over medium heat, toss in your pitted cherries (no need to thaw them if they’re frozen), half of the sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Stir often, letting the cherries break down and bubble for five to seven minutes until things get nice and glossy. This step is where the filling becomes luscious, thick, and ready to infuse the whole dessert with all that cherry goodness.
Step 2: Build the Filling
Pour that steaming-hot cherry filling straight into a greased 8×8-inch baking dish. Spreading it evenly means there’ll be juicy cherries in every scoop. Don’t worry if it looks a bit liquid right now—the magic will happen in the oven.
Step 3: Mix the Cobbler Topping
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, baking powder, and salt. Now comes the fun (and slightly messy) part: add the cold, cubed butter and cut it in using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the texture looks like coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk and vanilla just until combined—the less you mix, the more tender your topping will be.
Step 4: Top and Bake
Scoop heaping spoonfuls of the cobbler dough over your cherry filling, leaving some little gaps where the vibrant fruit can peek through and bubble up during baking. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and irresistible. The cobbler will smell amazing and look even better when the edges are bubbling.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let your Cherry Cobbler Recipe cool just slightly before serving. It sets up as it stands, making it easier to scoop, and the flavors seem to bloom with a little rest. It’s at its best when still a touch warm—just begging for a scoop of ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream.
How to Serve Cherry Cobbler Recipe

Garnishes
Nothing boosts the “wow” factor of your Cherry Cobbler Recipe quite like a cool scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of softly whipped cream. For a pretty finish, try a light dusting of powdered sugar or a few extra fresh cherries on top.
Side Dishes
Serve your cobbler alongside cold vanilla yogurt for breakfast, or with spiced nuts for an extra crunch. Even a little espresso on the side makes for a grown-up treat, letting the sweet-tart cherries really pop.
Creative Ways to Present
This cobbler looks stunning in individual ramekins if you’re hosting a dinner party. Or, spoon it into small mason jars for a charming picnic dessert. You could even layer the cobbler with whipped cream in parfait glasses for a playful, elegant twist on the classic presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with any leftovers (lucky you!), just cover and refrigerate. The Cherry Cobbler Recipe stays fresh for up to three days. The flavors deepen a bit as it rests, so it’s still delicious the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, let the cherry cobbler cool completely, then wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It keeps well in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
For the best texture, warm leftovers in a 350°F oven until heated through—about 15 minutes. In a hurry, a quick zap in the microwave will do, but the oven keeps the topping crisp and lovely.
FAQs
Can I use canned cherries instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes! Just drain any excess liquid from canned cherries before starting and adjust the sugar if they’re already sweetened. You may also want to reduce the cooking time for the filling since canned cherries are already quite soft.
Is it important to use cold butter for the topping?
Absolutely! Cold butter is key to creating a cobbler topping that’s light, flaky, and tender. It creates those delicious pockets of richness, just like in scones or biscuits.
How do I know when the cobbler is done baking?
The topping will be golden brown, and you’ll notice the cherry filling bubbling up around the edges. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. If you’re baking in a deeper dish, you might need an extra 5 minutes.
Can I make this Cherry Cobbler Recipe gluten-free?
Certainly! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend (one that contains xanthan gum works best). You might notice a slightly different texture, but the flavors will be just as delightful.
What other fruits can I use with this recipe?
You can swap out part of the cherries for peaches, blueberries, or raspberries for a fun flavor twist. Mixed berries also complement cherries beautifully in this cobbler.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as simple as it is sensational, this Cherry Cobbler Recipe truly delivers. It’s full of the flavors we crave all year long, and it comes together in just a few easy steps. I hope you’ll grab a bowl and spoon and give it a try—and don’t forget to share a little taste of summer with the people around your table!
Print
Cherry Cobbler Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of this delightful Cherry Cobbler Recipe. A classic dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cherry Filling:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the Cobbler Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cherry Filling: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Combine cherries, 1/2 cup sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Cook until thickened.
- Assemble the Cobbler: Pour the cherry mixture into a greased baking dish. Mix the cobbler topping ingredients and drop spoonfuls over the cherries.
- Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
- No need to thaw frozen cherries.
- Experiment by adding other berries.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scoop
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg