Imagine a dessert so irresistible that it transforms an ordinary evening into a culinary celebration - welcome to the world of Cast Iron Cherry Cobbler! This rustic, mouthwatering treat combines the sweet-tart burst of juicy cherries with a golden, buttery crust that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned home chef, this recipe promises to deliver a dessert that looks like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant, but can be effortlessly created in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet in the oven while preheating to warm it up.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine cherries, 1/2 cup sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Gently mix until cherries are evenly coated.
- Remove the hot cast iron skillet from the oven using oven mitts. Carefully pour the melted butter into the skillet, ensuring it coats the bottom evenly.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, remaining 1/2 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Gradually add milk to the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter.
- Pour the cherry mixture into the buttered cast iron skillet, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Carefully pour the batter over the cherries, trying to cover most of the fruit but not necessarily completely sealing the edges.
- Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes. The cobbler will continue to set as it cools.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Use a large spoon to scoop directly from the cast iron skillet.
Tips
- Use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet for the best flavor and even heat distribution.
- For maximum flavor, use fresh cherries when in season, but high-quality frozen cherries work perfectly too.
- Preheat your cast iron skillet to ensure a crispy, golden bottom crust.
- Don't overmix the batter - a few small lumps are okay and will help create a tender texture.
- Let the cobbler rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to allow the filling to set and become less runny.
- For an extra indulgent touch, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- If you don't have almond extract, you can substitute with a splash of amaretto liqueur or simply use extra vanilla.
- Check the cobbler at 35 minutes - ovens can vary, and you want a golden-brown top without burning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
