Desserts

Best Recipe for Cobbler Using Cherry Pie Filling (Simple & Delicious)

Name: Best Recipe for Cobbler Using Cherry Pie Filling (Simple & Delicious)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup milk; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional); ½ tsp cinnamon (optional); 1 tbsp coarse sugar (optional for topping)

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, gooey cobbler straight from the oven—and if you’re craving something fruity, sweet, and incredibly easy to whip up, this recipe for cobbler using cherry pie filling is the one to bookmark. Whether you’re a seasoned home baker or a total beginner, this guide will walk you through every detail to make a mouthwatering cherry cobbler with minimal prep and maximum flavor.

In this article, we’ll explore everything from the history of cobbler to variations you can try using pantry staples. You’ll learn how to layer your ingredients for that golden, bubbly perfection, plus get insider tips for avoiding soggy bottoms and flavorless crusts. If you’re wondering whether canned pie filling will do the job—don’t worry, we’ve got answers (and hacks!) for that too.

Don’t miss our healthy apple crumble recipe for more fruit-filled dessert ideas.

Let’s get into the cherry goodness!

Understanding the Recipe for Cobbler Using Cherry Pie Filling

What Is a Cobbler? History of Cherry Fruit Cobbler Recipes

A cobbler is a traditional baked dessert made by placing fruit in a baking dish and covering it with batter, biscuit dough, or a crumbly topping before baking. Originating in the United States during colonial times, cobblers became a staple when settlers lacked the resources to make pies. Over time, the dessert evolved into countless regional variations—think southern-style biscuit cobblers, Midwestern crust-topped versions, and even campfire Dutch oven cobblers.

Unlike pies, which require structured crusts, cobblers are more rustic and forgiving. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings because they come together quickly and deliver big flavor without the fuss.

Why Cherry Pie Filling Is Ideal for Quick Cobbler Recipes

If you’re looking for convenience without compromising taste, cherry pie filling is a game changer. Here’s why:

Pre-sweetened & pre-cooked: Canned cherry pie filling is already sweetened and thickened, which saves you time on prep.
Consistent results: No need to worry about overripe or underripe fruit.
Great for layering: The texture is ideal for sitting beneath a biscuit or cake-like topping without turning soggy.

Using canned filling also allows you to make this dessert year-round—not just during cherry season. And with just a few tweaks, you can elevate the flavor to rival any homemade version.

Looking for inspiration? Try our gluten-free dessert recipes for more easy bakes like this one.

Ingredients for the Best Recipe for Cherry Cobbler with Pie Filling

Ingredients for cherry cobbler using canned pie filling

Cherry Pie Filling vs Fresh Cherries in Cobbler Recipes

For this cobbler recipe, cherry pie filling is not only convenient but also consistently delicious. While fresh cherries offer a tart, juicy flavor, they require pitting, cooking, and sweetening. Canned filling, on the other hand, gives you:

Pre-cooked, thickened consistency
Balanced sweetness
Year-round availability

Fresh cherries can still be used if you prefer, but you’ll need to cook them with sugar and a thickener like cornstarch beforehand.

Pantry Ingredients to Make a Simple Cobbler with Canned Cherry Pie Filling

Besides the pie filling, your cobbler will only need a few simple pantry ingredients:

Ingredient	Purpose
All-purpose flour	Base for biscuit or cake topping
Granulated sugar	Adds sweetness to the topping
Baking powder	Helps the topping rise
Butter	Adds richness and golden color
Milk or buttermilk	For moisture in the dough
Cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)	Adds warm spice notes

Want to explore more ways to enjoy fruit desserts? Discover great ideas like lemon pudding cake benefits.

How to Make Cherry Cobbler with Pie Filling (Step-by-Step)

How to assemble cherry cobbler with canned filling

Prepping Your Baking Dish & Oven Temperature

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Assembling the Cobbler: Layering Techniques for Best Texture

Spread the cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish.
Mix your dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder) in a bowl.
Add melted butter and milk, stirring until a thick batter forms.
Spoon the batter over the cherry filling. You can spread it completely or dollop it for a rustic look.
Sprinkle sugar or cinnamon on top for added crunch.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling at the edges.

Looking for another decadent dessert? Don’t miss our chocolate molten lava cake recipe.

Customizing Your Cherry Cobbler Recipe

Adding Extra Flavors: Almond Extract, Lemon Zest, and More

Want to level up the flavor? Here are a few mix-in ideas:

Almond extract (½ tsp): enhances cherry flavor
Lemon zest: balances the sweetness
Vanilla extract: adds depth to the topping
Crushed nuts: adds texture and a nutty flavor

Topping Twists: Bisquick, Cake Mix, or Homemade Dough?

This recipe is versatile enough for different topping types:

Bisquick mix: quick, biscuit-like top
Cake mix: fluffier and more cakey
Homemade dough: rich and buttery flavor from scratch

Each offers its own spin on the traditional cobbler.

Baking Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

How to Know When Cobbler Is Perfectly Baked

Look for the following signs:

The topping is golden brown and puffed
The cherry filling is bubbling around the edges
A toothpick inserted into the topping comes out clean

Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set properly.

Common Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)

Undercooked topping: Extend baking by 5-10 minutes and tent with foil.
Runny filling: Make sure you’re using thickened pie filling or bake a bit longer.
Overmixing dough: Mix just until combined for a soft, fluffy top.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Best Ways to Serve Cherry Cobbler (Ice Cream, Whipped Cream)

Serve warm with:

A scoop of vanilla ice cream
A dollop of whipped cream
A drizzle of sweetened condensed milk or chocolate syrup

These toppings elevate the cherry flavors and add a creamy contrast.

Drinks That Pair Beautifully with Cobbler

Consider these beverages:

Coffee or chai tea
Sparkling water with lemon
A light dessert wine like Moscato or Riesling

Storage, Reheating & Freezing Tips

How to Store Leftover Cobbler Without Getting Soggy

Cool the cobbler completely before covering. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To keep the topping from going soggy, you can reheat it uncovered in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes.

Freezer-Friendly Tips for Future Cravings

Wrap leftover cobbler tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven.

Nutritional Information & Substitutions

Is Cobbler Healthier Than Pie? A Nutritional Comparison

Dessert	Avg Calories	Sugar	Fat
Cherry Pie	450	High	High
Cherry Cobbler	300–350	Medium	Medium

Cobbler typically uses less crust, meaning fewer calories and less fat.

Gluten-Free, Low-Sugar, and Vegan Substitution Ideas

Gluten-free flour or almond flour
Coconut sugar or stevia instead of white sugar
Plant-based butter and milk

Try our gluten-free dessert roundup for more health-conscious ideas.

FAQs About Cherry Cobbler Using Pie Filling

Can I use pie filling for cobbler?

Absolutely. It’s a time-saving solution that still tastes homemade. Just make sure it’s a thick filling, not watery.

What’s the difference between cherry pie and cherry cobbler?

A pie uses a crust both on the bottom and top, while a cobbler features fruit on the bottom with a biscuit or cake-like topping.

What’s the difference between cobbler and regular pie?

Cobbler is more rustic and simpler—no rolling dough required. It’s layered, not enclosed like a pie.

Do you need to add anything to canned cherry pie filling?

You don’t have to, but enhancing it with lemon zest, almond extract, or a pinch of cinnamon can boost the flavor.

Conclusion

This easy recipe for cobbler using cherry pie filling proves that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to make a homemade dessert that feels special. With just a few pantry ingredients and a can of cherry pie filling, you can have a bubbling, golden treat ready to wow your family or guests.

Looking for inspiration? Try our healthy apple crumble or gluten-free dessert collection for more sweet ideas that satisfy.