Fresh Cherry Dump Cobbler: An Easy and Delicious Summer Dessert
Fresh cherries make any dessert special, and there’s no better way to showcase them than in a simple, easy-to-make Fresh Cherry Dump Cobbler. This dessert combines tart cherries with a sweet, buttery topping for a dish that is perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight treats. The best part? It only requires a few ingredients, and no special baking skills are needed!
For a variation on a comforting dessert, check out our Crockpot Potato Soup with Hashbrowns, another easy, flavorful recipe perfect for chilly evenings.
What is a Dump Cobbler?
A dump cobbler is a type of dessert where all the ingredients are literally dumped into the baking dish, layered, and then baked to perfection. It’s fuss-free, no-mixing-required, and guarantees a golden, crispy crust with a deliciously gooey filling. The simplicity of the recipe makes it a go-to for quick desserts, especially when you’re short on time but need something homemade and crowd-pleasing.
Fresh Cherry Dump Cobbler is even better because it allows you to use seasonal cherries, giving the dessert a rich, natural flavor that canned fruit can’t match.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious cobbler, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:
- 4 cups of fresh cherries (pitted)
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or white cake mix for a lighter flavor)
- 1 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust depending on how sweet your cherries are)
- Optional: 1 tsp almond extract for extra flavor
For another quick and tasty recipe, you can explore the Slow Cooker Baked Ziti, a perfect comfort meal with minimal effort.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
Begin by pitting and washing your fresh cherries. If your cherries are particularly tart, consider tossing them with a little sugar to balance the sweetness.
Step 2: Assemble the Cobbler
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and evenly spread the fresh cherries on the bottom.
- Sprinkle the cake mix evenly over the top of the cherries.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Do not mix the ingredients — let them naturally bake together.
Step 3: Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbly. Let the cobbler cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Making the Best Fresh Cherry Dump Cobbler
- Use fresh cherries: While canned cherries are an option, fresh cherries bring a much better flavor. Bing or Rainier cherries work great in this recipe.
- Distribute butter evenly: This helps ensure the cake mix browns evenly and creates that perfect golden crust.
- Add texture with nuts: For added crunch, sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans over the top before baking.
For more tips on delicious meals, check out this No-Peek Beef Tips Recipe, a hearty meal option that’s perfect for cozy nights in.
Serving Suggestions
Fresh Cherry Dump Cobbler is best served warm, topped with:
- Vanilla ice cream: The cold creaminess contrasts perfectly with the warm cobbler.
- Whipped cream: Light and fluffy, adding a sweet touch.
- Powdered sugar: A simple sprinkle adds a touch of elegance to this rustic dessert.
For another dessert idea, try our Salted Caramel Apple Cheesecake recipe here.
Variations of Cherry Dump Cobbler
Here are some delicious variations to try:
- Chocolate Cherry Cobbler: Add a handful of chocolate chips between the cherries and cake mix for a rich, decadent twist.
- Berry Cherry Cobbler: Mix in blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry delight.
- Gluten-Free Option: Simply substitute a gluten-free cake mix for the regular one.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Storing: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1 minute.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen cherries for this cobbler?
Yes, you can substitute frozen cherries. Make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid extra moisture that could make the cobbler runny.
2. What kind of cake mix should I use?
You can use yellow or white cake mix. For a different flavor, you can even try a chocolate or spice cake mix.
3. Can I make this cobbler ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the cobbler ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using too much butter: While it may be tempting to add extra butter, it can make the cobbler greasy.
- Not draining cherries: If using canned or frozen cherries, always drain them thoroughly to prevent a soggy cobbler.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cobbler toward the end of baking to prevent the top from getting too brown.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like a Fresh Cherry Dump Cobbler to satisfy your sweet tooth. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s bursting with fresh fruit flavor. Whether you’re making it for a summer BBQ or a weeknight treat, this cobbler is sure to impress!
For another easy dessert, check out our Cinnamon Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze recipe here.
