Classic Strawberry Cobbler Recipe: A Summertime Favorite
A sweet summer dessert pairing juicy berries with a golden crust for ultimate comfort.
Classic Strawberry Cobbler: The Ultimate Summer Dessert
Few desserts capture the essence of summer like a classic strawberry cobbler. With its luscious fruit filling, pillow-soft crust, and a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top, this nostalgic treat hits all the right notes—comforting, crowd-pleasing, and incredibly simple to whip up with pantry staples and fresh strawberries.
Why Strawberry Cobbler Is a Must-Bake Dessert
Strawberry cobbler shines as a seasonal dessert because it’s easy, adaptable, and lets the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries take center stage. The recipe is unfussy—a simple batter forms both the tender base and golden crust, absorbing the fruity juices as it bakes to perfection.
- Perfect for gatherings: Cobblers serve a crowd and can be made ahead.
- Ideal for using up strawberries: Especially when you have an abundance of fresh or farmers’ market berries.
- Customizable: Swap strawberries for other fruits or use a mix for a new twist.
- Satisfyingly easy: No rolling pins, no dough chilling—just mix, pour, and bake.
Ingredients for Strawberry Cobbler
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Salted Butter | 1 stick (1/2 cup) | Cuts richness and adds flavor; use unsalted if preferred |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 1/4 cups (divided) | Sweetens both the batter and the strawberry filling |
| Self-Rising Flour | 1 cup | Provides lift; see FAQ for substitutes |
| Whole Milk | 1 cup | Adds moisture and richness |
| Cornstarch | 2 tablespoons | Thickens strawberry juices for a luscious filling |
| Strawberries | 2 lbs (about 6 1/2 cups, halved) | Fresh is best, but frozen can work in a pinch |
| Fresh Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon | Brightens and balances the sweetness |
| Vanilla Ice Cream | For serving | Optional, but highly recommended! |
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Strawberry Cobbler
- Preheat & Prepare: Turn the oven to 350°F. Place the stick of butter in a 10-inch cast iron skillet and melt in the oven for about 5 minutes, swirling occasionally. Remove skillet once butter has fully melted.
- Mix the Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of the sugar, self-rising flour, and milk until mostly smooth. In a separate bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 cup sugar with the cornstarch. Add halved strawberries and lemon juice to this mixture, stirring to evenly coat.
- Assemble the Cobbler: Pour the batter over the melted butter in the skillet—do not stir. Spoon the strawberry mixture and any juices on top of the batter, again avoiding stirring.
- Bake: Set the skillet on a foil-lined baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake for 60–75 minutes, until the cobbler is golden brown and bubbling. Test for doneness by checking the color and bubbling juices.
- Cool & Serve: Let the cobbler sit on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes to allow the juices to set. Serve warm, ideally with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Expert Tips for the Best Strawberry Cobbler
- Don’t Stir: After pouring the batter in the skillet and adding strawberries, resist stirring. The layers will settle and bake up with a unique, rippled texture.
- Foil-Lined Baking Sheet: Place your skillet on a saucer or foil-lined sheet to prevent oven spills as the berry juices bubble up.
- Fresh vs. Frozen: While fresh strawberries yield the best flavor and texture, frozen strawberries can be used—just don’t thaw them before adding.
- Browning: Check for that distinctive golden crust as the sign your cobbler is ready.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow sufficient cooling after baking so the juices thicken—it makes slicing and serving easier.
Flavor Variations and Substitutions
- Add Other Berries: Mix in raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a medley cobbler.
- Citrus Zest: Add orange or lime zest to the filling for a zesty twist.
- Warm Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or cardamom in the batter complements strawberries beautifully.
- Self-Rising Flour Substitute: Use 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder + 1/4 teaspoon salt if you don’t have self-rising flour.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter and milk for plant-based alternatives if needed.
Baking Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast Iron Skillet (10-inch): For the classic rustic look and even baking; a ceramic baking dish works as well.
- Mixing Bowls: One for the batter, one for the strawberry mixture.
- Whisk: For blending your dry and wet ingredients thoroughly.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accuracy ensures the right texture.
- Foil-lined Baking Sheet: Protects your oven from bubbling juices.
What others are reading
Serving Suggestions
- Classic: Serve warm straight from the skillet with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream or homemade whipped cream.
- Brunch: Offer alongside biscuits, scones, or muffins for a summer brunch spread.
- Picnic Dessert: Cobbler is sturdy and easy to transport, making it perfect for casual outdoor meals.
- Individual Servings: Bake in ramekins for a personalized twist on the classic.
Nutritional Overview
This cobbler is a comforting treat—a typical serving (1/8 of the recipe, not including ice cream) will have approximately:
- Calories: 270–300
- Carbs: 55g
- Fat: 8g
- Sugar: 36g
Keep in mind, values will vary based on exact serving size and toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between a cobbler, a crisp, and a crumble?
Cobblers have a thick batter or biscuit topping, while crisps and crumbles use a crumbly topping made from butter, sugar, and oats (crisp) or flour (crumble). Cobbler crusts bake up cake-like and absorb the fruit juices, distinguishing them from their crumb-topped cousins.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes. If using frozen strawberries, do not thaw before mixing. Baking time may be slightly longer, and the filling may release more juice.
What if I don’t have self-rising flour?
Replace with 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt for a homemade alternative.
How do I store leftover strawberry cobbler?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can strawberry cobbler be made ahead?
Yes. Prepare and bake a day in advance, then store chilled. Warm in a low oven until just heated through before serving.
How do I know when my cobbler is done?
The crust should be deeply golden brown and the filling bubbly at the edges. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean of wet batter (juices are fine).
Pro Tips for Perfect Cobbler Every Time
- For juicer berries: Add cornstarch to thicken excess juices and avoid a soggy crust.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour with added baking powder for similar results.
- Butter alternatives: For a tangier flavor, brown the butter before assembling.
- For a crispier top: Sprinkle extra sugar over the cobbler before baking for added crunch and color.
- Let it cool: Resting after baking helps the filling set and makes serving easier.
Printable Strawberry Cobbler Recipe
| Yield | 8 servings |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 60-75 minutes |
| Total Time | About 90 minutes |
Helpful Shortcuts & Recipe Variations
- Quick Berry Mix: Try pre-sliced frozen strawberries with a touch of extra cornstarch.
- Spiced Cobbler: Add a bit of vanilla or almond extract, or grated ginger for a creative flavor boost.
- Mixed Fruit Version: Use half strawberries, half peaches or rhubarb for new taste combinations.
More Cobbler Ideas
- Blackberry Cobbler: Substitute blackberries for strawberries for a brambly twist.
- Peach Cobbler: Use ripe, peeled peaches (and a pinch of cinnamon).
- Berry Medley: Combine blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a vivid summer dessert.
Final Thoughts
A classic strawberry cobbler is one of the simplest pleasures of summer. With easy-to-find ingredients, customizable variations, and a crowd-pleasing result, it’s a dessert you’ll return to year after year—whether for Sunday suppers, summer picnics, or special celebrations. Happy baking!
References
- https://preppykitchen.com/strawberry-cobbler/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a40169265/strawberry-cobbler-recipe/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tnW7uhZg6E
- https://food-network.app.link/Az3HS41TQjb
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g43412172/cobbler-recipes/
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