Cracker Barrel’s Cherry Cobbler is a classic Southern dessert that brings warm, comforting flavors to the table. This recipe captures that perfect balance of sweet cherries and a tender, buttery crust that makes every bite irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a cozy hug on a plate.
We love how simple ingredients come together to create something so delicious and nostalgic. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this cherry cobbler is sure to impress. Let’s dive into making this iconic dessert that’s as delightful as it is easy to prepare.
Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Cherry Cobbler Recipe
To recreate the Cracker Barrel Cherry Cobbler, we gather simple yet flavorful ingredients that capture the essence of this classic Southern dessert. Each component plays a vital role in balancing the sweet, tart cherry filling with the rich, buttery cobbler topping.
Cherry Filling Ingredients
For the luscious cherry filling, we use ripe, juicy cherries with a hint of zest and sweetness. Here’s everything we need:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen tart cherries, pitted
- 1 cup granulated sugar – balances the cherry tartness
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch – thickens the filling to a perfect consistency
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice – adds brightness and enhances flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract – complements the cherry essence beautifully
- 1/4 cup water – helps dissolve cornstarch and integrates flavors
Cobbler Topping Ingredients
Our signature cobbler topping offers a tender, buttery crust that contrasts perfectly with the warm cherry filling. The ingredients include:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 1/2 cups | For structure and texture |
| Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup | Sweetness and slight crispness |
| Baking powder | 1 1/2 teaspoons | Helps the topping rise |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | Balances and enhances flavors |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (1 stick) | Melted, for richness and moisture |
| Whole milk | 1/2 cup | Adds tenderness to the batter |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Deepens the flavor profile |
With these carefully selected ingredients, we ensure our Cracker Barrel Cherry Cobbler stays true to its comforting, nostalgic roots while bursting with rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Equipment Needed
To recreate the Cracker Barrel Cherry Cobbler perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool plays a key role in shaping the dessert’s texture and flavor. Here’s what we need to gather before starting:
- Mixing Bowls: Use a large bowl for combining the cherry filling ingredients and another medium bowl for preparing the cobbler topping. Glass or stainless steel bowls work best for easy mixing and cleaning.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements ensure the perfect balance of sweetness and texture in both the filling and crust. Use a set of standard measuring cups and spoons for dry and liquid ingredients.
- Whisk and Spoon: A whisk helps to blend the cornstarch and liquids smoothly in the cherry filling. Use a wooden or silicone spoon for folding the cobbler topping ingredients together without overmixing.
- 9×9 Inch Baking Dish: Choose a ceramic or glass baking dish. This size works well for baking the cobbler evenly while presenting a classic rustic look.
- Saucepan: To thicken the cherry filling on the stovetop, a medium saucepan is needed. It allows precise heat control to avoid burning or clumping.
- Oven Mitts: For safety when handling the hot baking dish once the cobbler is baked.
- Cooling Rack: Let the cobbler cool for several minutes on a rack to set the filling and topping before serving.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine filling and topping ingredients |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate measurement of ingredients |
| Whisk | Blend cornstarch and liquids smoothly |
| Wooden/Silicone Spoon | Fold topping ingredients gently |
| 9×9 Inch Baking Dish | Bake cobbler evenly and serve |
| Saucepan | Thicken cherry filling |
| Oven Mitts | Safely handle hot baking dish |
| Cooling Rack | Cool cobbler for perfect texture before serving |
By preparing these essential tools in advance, we ensure the Cracker Barrel Cherry Cobbler comes together flawlessly—from mixing to baking, achieving that signature tender crust and luscious cherry filling every time.
Prep Work
Before diving into the Cracker Barrel Cherry Cobbler assembly, it is essential to prepare each component carefully. This ensures the cherry filling and cobbler topping come together perfectly, delivering the iconic texture and flavor we cherish.
Preparing the Cherry Filling
We start the process with the cherry filling, which forms the vibrant and juicy heart of our cobbler. Follow these steps precisely to achieve that classic sweet-tart balance:
- Pit and rinse 4 cups of ripe cherries thoroughly to remove any stems or debris.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons cornstarch. Stir well to coat the cherries evenly.
- Add 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon almond extract, and ½ cup water to the mixture.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Whisk continuously until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy, about 5 to 7 minutes. This thickening is crucial to prevent a watery filling.
- Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly before adding it to the topping.
“Thickening the cherry filling thoroughly helps maintain the cobbler’s luscious texture rather than a runny consistency.“
Preparing the Cobbler Topping
To complement our bold cherry filling, the cobbler topping needs to be rich, tender, and slightly crisp on the edge. Here’s how we prepare it:
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Cut in 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Using a pastry cutter or fork helps control the texture perfectly.
- Stir in ½ cup whole milk and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix gently but thoroughly until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the topping light.
- Let the topping rest for a few minutes while the cherry filling cools slightly to maintain ideal consistency before baking.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Preparation Detail |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup | Sifted |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon | |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon | |
| Unsalted butter | 6 tablespoons | Cold, cut into small pieces |
| Whole milk | ½ cup | |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
Our precise prep work for both the cherry filling and the cobbler topping will ensure our Cracker Barrel Cherry Cobbler bakes to golden, bubbling perfection every time.
Directions for Cracker Barrel Cherry Cobbler Recipe
Let’s walk through the step-by-step process of creating our Cracker Barrel Cherry Cobbler. These clear, precise directions will help us achieve that classic tender crust and luscious cherry filling every time.
Making the Cherry Filling
- Prepare the cherries:
Start by pitting 2 cups of ripe cherries. Rinse them well under cold water and drain thoroughly.
- Combine ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, mix the following:
- 2 cups pitted cherries
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/3 cup water
- Cook the filling:
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Whisk the ingredients constantly until the mixture begins to thicken and bubble, about 5 to 7 minutes. The cherry filling should be glossy and coat the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat:
Take the saucepan off the stove and let the filling cool slightly. This ensures it won’t make the cobbler topping soggy when added.
Pro Tip: Stirring continuously prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, thick cherry filling.
Preparing and Adding the Cobbler Topping
- Combine dry ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, sift together:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Cut in cold butter:
Add 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter cut into small cubes. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add wet ingredients:
Stir in gently:
- 1/3 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Mix to combine:
Use a fork or spatula to incorporate the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Overmixing will cause a dense texture, so stop when the batter is slightly lumpy but uniform.
- Assemble the cobbler:
Pour the slightly cooled cherry filling into a greased 9×9 inch baking dish. Carefully drop spoonfuls of cobbler topping evenly over the filling. The topping doesn’t need to cover the cherries entirely; it will spread as it bakes.
Baking Instructions
- Preheat oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to reach temperature before placing the dish inside.
- Bake the cobbler:
Place the baking dish in the center of the oven. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling at the edges.
- Cool and serve:
Remove the cobbler from the oven and set it on a cooling rack. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes to allow the filling to settle and the topping to firm up.
| Step | Time | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cherry filling | 5–7 minutes | Medium heat | Thick and glossy consistency |
| Preheat oven | 10–15 minutes | 350°F (175°C) | Ensure oven is fully heated |
| Baking cobbler | 40–45 minutes | 350°F (175°C) | Top should be golden and filling bubbly |
| Cooling | 15 minutes | Room temperature | Filling sets for perfect slicing |
Remember: Using cold butter and not overmixing the batter are key to achieving that classic crumbly and tender cobbler topping synonymous with Cracker Barrel’s Cherry Cobbler.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Cracker Barrel Cherry Cobbler Recipe, consider these serving tips that enhance its rich flavors and classic Southern charm.
- Serve warm: The cobbler is best enjoyed straight from the oven when the cherry filling is bubbling and the crust is golden. This temperature accentuates the rich sweetness and tender crumb.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a cool contrast to the warm cobbler. The melting ice cream complements the tart cherries and buttery crust, creating a delightful balance.
- Add whipped cream: For an airy, light finish, dollop fresh whipped cream atop each serving. The sweetness highlights the almond and vanilla notes in the filling and topping.
- Garnish with fresh mint or toasted almonds: A sprig of fresh mint introduces a refreshing aroma while a sprinkle of toasted almonds adds texture and nutty flavor, enhancing the cobbler’s complexity.
- Complement with beverages: Sweet tea or a glass of chilled white wine pairs elegantly. These drinks cut through the sweetness and refresh the palate for each bite.
| Serving Element | Purpose | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Warm temperature | Enhances flavor and texture | Serve within 30 minutes of baking |
| Vanilla ice cream | Adds creaminess and cool contrast | Use high-quality premium ice cream |
| Whipped cream | Lightens richness | Whip just until soft peaks form |
| Fresh mint garnish | Adds aroma and color | Place gently atop each portion |
| Toasted almonds | Adds crunch and nutty flavor | Toast until golden brown for best flavor |
| Sweet tea or white wine | Complements sweetness and refreshes palate | Serve chilled |
“Serving the Cracker Barrel Cherry Cobbler warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes this timeless dessert from comforting to unforgettable. Each element heightens the rustic charm and deep cherry aroma for a truly classic experience.”
By thoughtfully incorporating these serving suggestions, we elevate our homemade cobbler, making it perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or simply indulging in a slice of Southern tradition.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enjoy our Cracker Barrel Cherry Cobbler Recipe with convenience and freshness, it’s essential to plan ahead and store the dessert properly. Here’s how we ensure the cobbler maintains its signature flavors and textures even after baking or before serving.
Preparing Ahead: Make-Ahead Instructions
- Assemble the cherry filling and cobbler topping separately: We recommend preparing both components up to 24 hours in advance. Store the cherry filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
- Refrigerate the assembled cobbler unbaked: For ultimate convenience, combine the cherry filling and topping in your baking dish but do not bake immediately. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 12 hours.
- Bake fresh when ready: Remove the cobbler from the fridge 15 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature. Bake according to the recipe’s directions. This method maintains the cobbler’s tender crust and bubbling cherry filling.
Storing Leftovers
Proper storage preserves the cobbler’s moisture and flavor for future enjoyment.
| Storage Method | Duration | Storage Details |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 hours | Cover loosely to prevent drying |
| Refrigerator | 3 to 4 days | Store in airtight container or cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for best results. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating |
Reheating Tips
- Oven reheating is preferred to retain the crispy topping. Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover the dish loosely with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave reheating can be used for quick servings but may soften the crust. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring gently to evenly warm.
“A well-stored cherry cobbler tastes just as delightful the next day—warm it up and savor every bite of that buttery crust and luscious cherry filling.”
Key Reminders for Best Results
- Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss and flavor contamination.
- Avoid freezing the baked cobbler with toppings for an extended time to maintain the texture of the crust.
- Always let the cobbler cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
By following these Make-Ahead and Storage Tips, we guarantee your homemade Cracker Barrel Cherry Cobbler stays irresistibly delicious whether served fresh or saved for later.
Conclusion
Making Cracker Barrel Cherry Cobbler at home lets us bring a taste of Southern comfort right to our table. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dessert is both approachable and rewarding. Whether it’s for a family meal or a special occasion, the warm cherry filling and tender crust never fail to impress.
By following the tips and techniques shared, we can confidently recreate that iconic flavor and texture. Plus, with easy storage and serving ideas, this cobbler is perfect for enjoying fresh or savoring later. Let’s get baking and enjoy a slice of this timeless treat together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cracker Barrel’s Cherry Cobbler?
Cracker Barrel’s Cherry Cobbler is a classic Southern dessert featuring sweet, tender cherries baked under a buttery, tender crust. It offers a comforting, nostalgic flavor perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
What ingredients are needed for the cherry filling?
The cherry filling requires ripe cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, almond extract, and water to create a balanced, flavorful mixture.
What goes into the cobbler topping?
The topping is made with all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cold unsalted butter, whole milk, and vanilla extract for a rich, tender crust.
What equipment do I need to make this cobbler?
You’ll need mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk, a 9×9 inch baking dish, a saucepan for thickening, oven mitts, and a cooling rack.
How do I prepare the cherry filling?
Pit and rinse cherries, mix them with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, almond extract, and water, then cook on the stove until thickened.
How do I make the cobbler topping?
Sift the dry ingredients, cut in cold butter until crumbly, then gently mix in milk and vanilla to avoid overmixing, ensuring a light topping.
What are the baking instructions for the cobbler?
Preheat the oven and bake the assembled cobbler until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling, usually around 35-40 minutes.
How should I serve Cracker Barrel Cherry Cobbler?
Serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Garnish with fresh mint or toasted almonds, and pair with sweet tea or chilled white wine.
Can I prepare the cobbler in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cherry filling and topping separately up to 24 hours before. Assemble and refrigerate the unbaked cobbler for up to 12 hours before baking.
How do I store leftover cobbler?
Store leftovers in airtight containers at room temperature for 1 day, in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat to preserve the crunchy topping.