Cherry Cobbler with Pie Filling

I have the biggest sweet tooth, and some days, I just need a dessert that feels like a warm hug. This super simple cherry cobbler with pie filling is my go-to recipe. I remember my grandma making something just like this for our Sunday dinners.

The whole house would smell so good! It’s the kind of dessert that brings everyone to the table. You are going to fall in love with how easy and delicious this is.

Why You’ll LOVE This Cherry Cobbler

Get ready for the easiest dessert you’ll ever make! I mean it. This cobbler is a real lifesaver when you need something sweet in a jiffy. You just mix, dump, and bake. The batter is so simple, and using cherry pie filling means no pitting cherries for hours. It’s a win-win!

The magic happens in the oven when the batter bakes up and around the bubbly cherries. It creates a soft, cake-like topping that is just out of this world.

If you love fruity desserts like this, you should also check out my yummy Blackberry Cobbler or my cozy Apple Blueberry Crumble.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Unsalted butter: This creates a rich, golden-brown crust on the bottom.
• All-purpose flour: This gives our cobbler its wonderful cake-like texture.
• Granulated sugar: You need this for the perfect amount of sweetness.
• Baking powder: This helps the cobbler topping rise and get fluffy.
• Fine sea salt: Just a little bit to make all the flavors pop.
• Milk: This makes the batter smooth and brings it all together.
• Pure vanilla extract: I add this for that warm, cozy flavor we all love.
• Almond extract (optional): This little secret makes the cherry flavor taste even better.
• Can cherry pie filling: This is our shortcut to an amazing, fruity dessert!

How to Make Cherry Cobbler

Making this cobbler is as easy as pie… or, well, cobbler! Just follow these simple steps for a perfect dessert.

Step 1: Get Your Pan Ready

First, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place 1/2 cup of unsalted butter in your 9×9-inch baking pan. Put the pan in the preheating oven for a few minutes, just until the butter is all melted.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

While the butter melts, grab a mixing bowl. Whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Then, pour in 1 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla, and the almond extract if you’re using it. Whisk it all until it’s just smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Cobbler

Take your pan with the melted butter out of the oven. Pour the batter right over the top of the butter. Please do not stir it! Then, spoon the 21-ounce can of cherry pie filling evenly over the batter. Still no stirring!

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Carefully place the pan back into the hot oven. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling up around the edges. It’s pure magic to watch!

Tips for the Best Cherry Cobbler

Here are a few of my favorite tricks to make sure your cobbler comes out perfect every single time.

• Don’t stir. The most important tip! Pour the layers in and trust the process for a perfect crust.
• Warm it up. This cobbler is great at room temperature, but warming it up a little makes it extra special.
• Use whole milk. For the richest flavor and best texture, I always recommend using whole milk in the batter.
• Check for doneness. The top should be a beautiful golden color. A toothpick test in the cakey part should work.
• Let it rest. Let the cobbler sit for about 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps it set up nicely.
• Add some ice cream. A big scoop of vanilla ice cream on top is a MUST. The hot and cold combo is amazing!

Variations and Substitutions

Want to mix things up? This recipe is super flexible. Here are some fun ideas for you to try out!

• Try different fruits. Not a cherry fan? Use a can of peach, blueberry, or apple pie filling instead. They all work great.
• Add some spice. Add a little bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. It gives the cobbler a warm, cozy feeling.
• Go nuts. Sprinkle some sliced almonds or chopped pecans on top before baking. This will add a lovely crunch.
• Make it gluten-free. You can easily use a 1-to-1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. It works like a charm in this recipe.
• Citrus zest. A little bit of lemon or orange zest in the batter will brighten up the fruit flavor beautifully.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This cobbler is best when it’s fresh and warm from the oven. But if you have leftovers, they are still delicious!

Just let the cobbler cool down all the way. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You can keep it on the counter for up to 2 days.

If you want it to last a bit longer, you can store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to eat it, just pop a slice in the microwave for a few seconds.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use fresh or frozen cherries?

Yes, you can! If using fresh cherries, you’ll need about 3-4 cups, pitted. You’ll also want to mix them with about 3/4 cup of sugar and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to create a juicy filling.

Why did my batter sink to the bottom?

Don’t worry, that’s not what’s happening! The batter rises through the butter and fruit filling as it bakes. This creates the yummy, cakey topping on top and a gooey, buttery crust on the bottom.

What to serve with cherry cobbler?

A big scoop of vanilla ice cream is the classic choice! Whipped cream or even a drizzle of heavy cream is also fantastic. For a full meal, it’s a great dessert after a summer BBQ with some tasty Smoked Baked Beans.

Do I have to use almond extract?

Nope, it’s optional! I think it gives the cherry flavor a nice boost, but the cobbler is just as delicious with only vanilla extract. You can leave it out completely if you prefer.

Can I double this recipe?

You sure can! Just double all of the ingredients and bake them in a larger 9×13-inch baking pan. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time, so just keep an eye on it.

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