Irresistible Cherry Cobbler Recipe

Ingredients for the Fruit Filling

Fresh Cherry Filling

• 2 pounds of fresh pitted cherries (if in season)
• 1 cup of sugar (only if using fresh cherries)
• 1/4 cup of cold water
• 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch (for desired thickness)
• 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla bean paste

Canned Cherry Filling

• 2-16 ounce cans of cherry pie filling
• 2-3 ounces of cold water
• 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch (for desired thickness)
• 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla bean paste

Preparing the Fruit Filling

Fresh Cherry Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cold water and cornstarch to create a slurry.
2. Add the vanilla bean paste to the slurry and mix well.
3. Incorporate the fresh cherries and sugar into the mixture, ensuring all ingredients are well combined. The cornstarch will thicken the filling during baking, eliminating the need to pre-cook the mixture.

Canned Cherry Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine 2-3 ounces of cold water and cornstarch to create a slurry.
2. Add the vanilla bean paste to the slurry and mix well.
3. Incorporate the canned cherry pie filling into the mixture. Note: Do not add sugar as the canned filling is already sweetened.

Ingredients for the Dough Topping

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons of baking powder
• 2 tablespoons of sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 cup of butter
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 1 large egg

Preparing the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (gas) or 400°F (electric).
2. In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Gradually cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until frothy.
5. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to ensure a tender dough.

Assembling the Cherry Cobbler

1. Pour the cherry filling into an 8-10 inch baking pan.
2. Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, drop small balls of dough onto the cherry filling. You can arrange them in a pattern or randomly.
3. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, turning the pan halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on the cobbler to prevent over-baking.

Enjoy Your Cherry Cobbler!

Once baked, allow the cobbler to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this delightful dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Interesting Facts and Stats

• Cherries are packed with antioxidants: They contain high levels of anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Source: Healthline
• Cherry production in the U.S.: The United States is one of the largest producers of cherries, with Michigan leading in tart cherry production and Washington in sweet cherry production. Source: USDA
• Cherry consumption: On average, Americans consume about 2.6 pounds of cherries per person annually. Source: USDA

By following this recipe, you'll create a cherry cobbler that's not only delicious but also packed with the nutritional benefits of cherries. Enjoy baking and savoring this classic dessert!