Classic Strawberry Cobbler: A Sweet and Simple Dessert

Introduction

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about cobbler desserts, and strawberry cobbler is no exception. For me, this recipe brings back memories of warm summer days spent picking strawberries in the garden, then rushing home to turn our bounty into a sweet and delicious treat. The scent of fresh strawberries bubbling in the oven, paired with a golden biscuit topping, is pure comfort. This classic strawberry cobbler recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a surefire way to bring a little sunshine to your dessert table any time of year.

What makes this strawberry cobbler recipe so appealing is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients and a little time in the kitchen, you can create a dessert that tastes like it came straight from a bakery. Whether you're serving it as the grand finale to a summer barbecue or as a cozy treat on a cool evening, this strawberry cobbler is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Recipe Overview

Name of the Recipe

Classic Strawberry Cobbler

Brief Description

This strawberry cobbler is made with fresh strawberries and a simple biscuit topping. The juicy strawberries are lightly sweetened and spiced, while the golden, buttery topping provides a delightful contrast in texture.

Ingredients List

• 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (divided)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (cold, cut into small cubes)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling on top)

Substitutions

If you don't have fresh strawberries, you can use frozen strawberries (thawed and drained). You can also substitute other berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, or a combination of your favorite fruits.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8x8-inch baking dish or equivalent-sized pie dish.
2. Prepare the strawberries: In a medium mixing bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup of the sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Let the strawberries sit for about 10 minutes to release their natural juices.
3. Make the cobbler topping: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining 1/4 cup of sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually stir in the milk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
4. Assemble the cobbler: Pour the strawberries and their juices into the prepared baking dish, spreading them out evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the cobbler batter over the top of the strawberries, covering as much of the surface as possible. The batter will spread as it bakes. For added texture, sprinkle the top with coarse sugar.
5. Bake the cobbler: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the strawberry filling is bubbling. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, you can cover the cobbler with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
6. Cool and serve: Allow the cobbler to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to thicken slightly. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This classic strawberry cobbler is best enjoyed warm from the oven. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of heavy cream for an extra indulgent treat. The sweetness of the strawberries combined with the buttery topping makes this dessert perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet finish to any meal.

Nutritional Information

Each serving (based on 8 servings) contains approximately:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 25g

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover strawberry cobbler in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave for 30-45 seconds, or reheat the entire cobbler in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through. This cobbler also freezes well—allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries for this cobbler. Be sure to thaw and drain them before using to prevent excess liquid from making the cobbler too watery.

Can I make this cobbler in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cobbler ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Alternatively, you can bake it in advance and reheat just before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

What other fruits can I use in this cobbler?

While this recipe highlights strawberries, you can easily substitute or mix in other fruits like blueberries, blackberries, or peaches. Just be sure to adjust the sugar and spices to match the flavors of the fruit you're using.

Conclusion

This classic strawberry cobbler recipe is a sweet and simple dessert that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. With its juicy strawberries and buttery biscuit topping, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of summer. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just treating yourself to a little something special, this cobbler is sure to please. Try it out and let us know how it turns out in the comments!