Blackberry Cobbler

8 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 40 m Total: 55 m Beginner
Be the first to rate!
Traditional Southern blackberry cobbler with a sweet, cake-like topping baked over fresh blackberries. Simple to make with pantry staples and bursting with juicy berry flavor.

Ingredients

8 servings
  • 3 cups of fresh blackberries
  • 2 cups sugar separated
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 egg
  • 1 stick butter (8 tablespoons)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. If using fresh berries, wash, drain and paper towel dry berries lightly.
  3. In a bowl, add one cup of sugar to the blackberries and set aside for 15 minutes to allow juices to release.
  4. Melt the stick of butter and let cool slightly.
  5. In a separate bowl, combine the remaining cup of sugar, flour, egg, melted butter, vanilla, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix well until smooth.
  6. Place the sugared berries and any accumulated juices in a 9 x 13 inch baking pan.
  7. Spread the batter mixture evenly over the blackberries.
  8. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes until golden brown and topping is set.
  9. Let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Serve warm.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Can I use frozen blackberries instead of fresh?

A: Yes, frozen blackberries work well. No need to thaw them first - just add them frozen to the pan with the sugar. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Q: Why is my topping sinking into the berries?

A: Make sure your batter is well-mixed and has a thick consistency. Pour it evenly over the berries, but don't stir - it will rise as it bakes and create the cobbler topping.

Q: How do I know when it's done?

A: The topping should be golden brown and set in the center. A toothpick inserted into the topping (not the fruit) should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Tips and Techniques

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream. This cobbler is even better the next day after the flavors have melded - just reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • fresh blackberries: frozen blackberries, blueberries, or mixed berries
  • butter: margarine or coconut oil

Equipment Needed

  • 9 x 13 inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Historical Context

Cobblers became popular in the American South because they required no special pans or fancy techniques - just fruit and basic pantry ingredients baked together. The name comes from the bumpy, cobbled appearance of the baked topping.