Blackberry cobbler is a timeless dessert that brings the sweet, tart flavor of blackberries together with a buttery, golden crust. This classic recipe is perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for a comforting and delicious treat. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a mouth-watering blackberry cobbler that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
For the Cobbler:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
For the Filling:
- 4 cups fresh blackberries
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the unsalted butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish and put it in the oven to melt while it preheats. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dark brown sugar, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Slowly pour the whole milk into the dry ingredients, stirring constantly until you have a smooth batter. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Blackberry Filling
- Combine Filling Ingredients: In a separate bowl, gently toss the blackberries with ground cinnamon, pure vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, and granulated sugar. Ensure the blackberries are well-coated with the mixture.
Step 3: Assemble the Cobbler
- Add Batter to Baking Dish: Once the butter has melted, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Pour the batter evenly over the melted butter. Do not stir; the butter will create a delicious crust as the cobbler bakes.
- Add Blackberry Filling: Spoon the blackberry mixture evenly over the batter. The blackberries will sink into the batter as it bakes, creating a layered cobbler.
Step 4: Bake the Cobbler
- Bake: Place the baking dish back in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the cobbler from the oven and let it cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to thicken and the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Frozen Blackberries: If fresh blackberries are not available, you can use frozen blackberries. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust the amount of sugar in the filling based on the sweetness of your blackberries. Taste and add more sugar if needed.
- Add a Zing: For an extra burst of flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the blackberry filling.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use other fruits in this cobbler recipe?
Absolutely! This cobbler recipe is versatile and works well with a variety of fruits such as peaches, blueberries, or a combination of berries. Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit used.
2. How do I store leftover blackberry cobbler?
Store any leftover cobbler in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
3. Can I freeze blackberry cobbler?
Yes, you can freeze blackberry cobbler. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven before serving.
Blackberry cobbler is a delightful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of blackberries with a buttery, cake-like topping. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures a perfect cobbler every time, making it a go-to dessert for any occasion. Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat. Happy baking!