If you’re craving something warm, fruity, and undeniably comforting, look no further than this Old-Fashioned Blackberry Cobbler. This dessert is a staple in many Southern kitchens, known for its simplicity, rich flavor, and nostalgic feel. Whether you have a basket of fresh-picked blackberries or a bag of frozen ones, this recipe transforms them into a sweet, syrupy treat topped with a golden, flaky crust. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy night in.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect blackberry cobbler from scratch—including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and answers to common questions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Easy to make with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
-
Versatile—use fresh or frozen blackberries
-
Rich in flavor with sweet-tart berries and a buttery crust
-
Perfect for any occasion, from weeknight desserts to holiday meals
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
4 cups fresh or frozen blackberries
-
1 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for sprinkling)
-
1 tablespoon lemon juice
-
1 cup all-purpose flour
-
1½ teaspoons baking powder
-
½ teaspoon salt
-
½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
-
1 cup milk
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
Optional: a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a cast-iron skillet.
Step 2: Prepare the berries
In a mixing bowl, combine the blackberries, lemon juice, and 1 cup of sugar. Stir gently and let them sit for 10–15 minutes to macerate and release their juices.
Step 3: Make the batter
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until a smooth batter forms.
Step 4: Assemble the cobbler
Pour the batter into the greased baking dish. Do not stir. Carefully spoon the blackberry mixture (with juices) over the batter.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes or until the crust rises above the berries and turns a beautiful golden brown.
Step 6: Serve
Let it cool slightly before serving. Best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream!
Helpful Tips for Success
-
Don’t stir the batter and berries together in the pan—this ensures a layered texture.
-
Use ripe blackberries for the best flavor, but frozen works well in a pinch.
-
Want a crispier top? Sprinkle a little sugar over the batter before baking.
-
Add spice—a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth.
Make It Your Own
-
Mixed berry version: Add raspberries or blueberries to the mix
-
Gluten-free option: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
-
Vegan version: Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
-
Calories: 270
-
Carbs: 40g
-
Fat: 11g
-
Protein: 2g
-
Fiber: 3g
-
Sugar: 26g
FAQs About Old-Fashioned Blackberry Cobbler
1. Can I use frozen blackberries?
Yes, just thaw and drain them slightly before use.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
3. Can I freeze the cobbler?
Absolutely. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
4. What if my berries are too tart?
Add an extra tablespoon of sugar to the filling.
5. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the filling and batter separately, then combine and bake when ready.
6. Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
Double the recipe and bake in a 9×13-inch pan.
7. Why is my cobbler soggy?
This can happen if the berries are too wet—drain well if using frozen.
8. Can I add oats to the topping?
This recipe uses a batter-style topping, but you can make a crumble with oats if you prefer.
9. Do I need to peel the blackberries?
No, the skins break down during baking.
10. What’s the difference between cobbler and crumble?
Cobbler uses a biscuit or batter topping; crumble uses a streusel-like topping.
11. Can I use other fruits?
Yes—peaches, apples, or cherries work well too.
12. How long should it cool before serving?
Let it rest for about 15 minutes to set.
13. Is lemon juice necessary?
It enhances the blackberry flavor, but you can skip it.
14. Can I make it in a cast-iron skillet?
Yes! Cast-iron retains heat well and gives a nice crust.
15. Do I need to sift the flour?
Sifting helps avoid lumps but isn’t required.
Conclusion
This Old-Fashioned Blackberry Cobbler is the kind of dessert that brings back sweet memories and creates new ones. It’s a true celebration of simplicity and flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned home baker or trying cobbler for the first time, this recipe is straightforward and incredibly rewarding.
Don’t forget to pin this recipe, share it with friends, and follow us on Pinterest for more delicious and easy-to-follow desserts just like this one!
Old-Fashioned Blackberry Cobbler Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or frozen blackberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar plus extra for sprinkling
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or cast iron skillet.
- Mix berries: In a bowl, combine blackberries, lemon juice, and 1 cup of sugar. Let sit for 10–15 minutes to macerate.
- Make batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, melted butter, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Assemble: Pour the batter into the baking dish. Do not stir. Spoon the blackberry mixture evenly over the batter.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the berries are bubbling.
- Cool & serve: Let it rest for about 10–15 minutes. Serve warm, optionally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Related posts:
Creamy White Lasagna Soup Recipe: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Dish
Rainbow Deviled Eggs Recipe: A Colorful Twist on a Classic Favorite
