Introduction
This Old-Fashioned Blackberry Cobbler is a true comfort dessert classic. With its bubbling, jammy berry base and golden, cake-like crust that soaks up every drop of tart-sweet juice, it’s the kind of recipe that feels like summer in every spoonful. Simple ingredients, minimal effort, unforgettable flavor.
Ingredients
For the Berry Filling:
4 cups fresh blackberries (frozen work too — do not thaw)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
For the Cobbler Topping:
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
A pinch of salt
1 cup whole milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish or large cast-iron skillet and put it in the oven to melt completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Berries
In a medium bowl, toss the blackberries with 1 cup sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for a few minutes to release their natural juices.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract until just combined. A few small lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 4: Layering
Carefully remove the hot baking dish from the oven. Pour the batter evenly over the melted butter. Do not stir.
Step 5: Add the Berries
Spoon the blackberry mixture evenly over the batter. Again, do not stir. As it bakes, the batter will rise around the fruit, creating a beautiful cobbled crust.
How to Make
The Bake
Bake for 45–55 minutes until the top is deep golden brown and the fruit is thick and bubbling around the edges.
The Rest
Allow the cobbler to rest for at least 15 minutes before serving. This helps the juices thicken into a syrupy consistency rather than remaining runny.
Variations
Peach-Berry Blend:
Replace half the blackberries with sliced fresh peaches for a Southern-style twist.
Spiced Version:
Add ½ tsp cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the flour mixture for a warm, cozy flavor.
Biscuit-Style Cobbler:
Use a cold butter biscuit dough dropped in rustic “cobbles” over the fruit for a more textured, less sweet topping.
Tips
Prevent a Watery Cobbler:
If using frozen berries, toss them with 1 tbsp cornstarch before layering.
Crunchy Sugar Top:
Sprinkle 1 tbsp coarse turbinado sugar on top before baking for a bakery-style crisp finish.
Cast-Iron Advantage:
Baking in a cast-iron skillet creates caramelized, crispy edges that elevate the overall texture.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: 320 kcal
Total Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 38g
Protein: 3g
Healthy Benefits
Rich in Antioxidants:
Blackberries are loaded with anthocyanins that help combat oxidative stress and inflammation.
Vitamin C Boost:
The berry content supports immune health with natural vitamin C.
Dietary Fiber:
Whole berries provide fiber, aiding digestion and helping balance blood sugar levels.
Conclusion
Old-fashioned blackberry cobbler is the ultimate low-effort, high-reward dessert. Whether served warm with vanilla ice cream or enjoyed chilled the next day, it’s a timeless recipe that celebrates simple, seasonal fruit.
Would you like a gluten-free or vegan version of this recipe?
