Nothing captures the cozy spirit of a home-baked dessert like cherry cobbler. If you want something foolproof yet delicious, cherry cobbler with cake mix deserves a spot on your table. This recipe delivers soft, juicy cherries under a buttery, golden crumble — all with minimal prep and only a few ingredients. Whether you’re feeding guests or treating yourself, this dessert always hits the sweet-and-tart spot.
Why Make Cherry Cobbler with Cake Mix?
Classic cherry cobbler is beloved for its contrast of gooey fruit and crisp topping. Cake mix makes the process approachable, cutting down steps without compromising flavor. The result is a dessert with nostalgia, plenty of texture, and maximum cherry flavor—all in under an hour.
This recipe is flexible. Cake mix cobbler provides a base to showcase favorite fruit fillings, but cherry offers a brilliant color and satisfying tang. With a scoop of vanilla ice cream, each serving becomes a true comfort treat.
Ingredients and Substitutions
Every element of this dessert brings something unique. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Purpose | Optional Substitutes |
|---|---|---|
| Cherry pie filling | Delivers tart, juicy flavor | Blueberry, apple, peach filling |
| White cake mix | Adds crisp, sweet topping | Vanilla or yellow cake mix |
| Unsalted butter | Binds and enriches crumble | Margarine or plant-based butter |
| Almond extract (optional) | Enhances cherry notes | Vanilla extract, amaretto |
| Chopped nuts (optional) | Adds crunch | Pecans, walnuts, almonds |
Measurement Guide
- 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
- 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- ½ cup chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing this cobbler couldn’t be easier. Here’s a stepwise guide for the best results.
1. Preheat and Prep
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using a glass pan, lightly butter it or coat with non-stick spray. Metal or non-stick pans won’t need greasing.
2. Assemble Fruit Base
Pour the cherry pie filling into your baking dish (about 9×13 inches). Spread evenly with a spatula, ensuring there are no empty spots. If using almond extract, stir it into the fruit directly.
Tip: For extra tartness, stir in a handful of drained, crushed pineapple or a squeeze of lemon juice. This brightens up the flavor.
3. Make the Crumble
In a medium bowl, combine the dry cake mix and melted (but cooled) butter. Toss gently with a fork until the mixture forms loose crumbles. If adding nuts, mix in half now and reserve the rest for the topping.
Note: If the mix looks more like batter and less like crumbs, the butter may be too hot. Let it cool a few minutes longer before blending.
4. Layer the Crumble
Sprinkle about half of the crumble evenly over the cherry filling. Use a fork or spoon to barely swirl it into the fruit. The goal is to lightly saturate part of the topping while keeping most of it distinct.
Layer the remaining crumble over the top. Lightly press with a spatula or your hands for a more cohesive crust or leave it loose for a crumbly texture.
Scatter the reserved nuts over the top if desired.
5. Bake
Place the dish in the center of the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The cobbler is done when the topping is golden brown and the juices bubble along the edges. If unsure, test the thickest part with an instant-read thermometer; it should register at least 200°F (93°C).
6. Serve
Let the cobbler cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set, making it easier to scoop.
For best enjoyment, serve cherry cobbler warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of heavy cream.
Tips for Success
- Cooled Butter: Let butter cool before combining with cake mix to create a proper crumble.
- Mixing: Only swirl half the topping in; overmixing blends layers and changes texture.
- Test Doneness: Look for bubbling edges and golden top, or check with a thermometer.
- Presentation: Glass pans show layers well. Bring the dish from oven to table for a rustic look.
Variations and Flavor Ideas
Cobbler recipes adapt well to different tastes and seasons. Here are a few ways to personalize your cherry cobbler:
Fruit Combinations
- Cherry & Blueberry: Adds deeper color and complexity.
- Apple-Cherry: Mix in cinnamon-spiced apples for cozy notes.
- Mixed Berry: Combine strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries for a summer twist.
Toppings
- Use oats in the crumble for texture.
- Top with sliced almonds or chopped pecans before baking.
- Sprinkle turbinado sugar on the crust for sparkle and crunch.
Cake Mix Options
While white cake mix gives a neutral, sweet flavor, don’t hesitate to substitute:
- Yellow cake mix: Slightly richer, more buttery.
- French vanilla: For added aroma and flavor depth.
- Chocolate: Combine with cherries for a Black Forest–inspired cobbler.
Common Questions
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Cherries?
Yes. If using fresh cherries, pit and slice them. Mix with ½ cup sugar, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, and a squeeze of lemon to create a juicy filling. For frozen cherries, thaw and drain excess liquid first. The texture will be softer than pie filling but equally tasty.
What If I Don’t Have Almond Extract?
Vanilla extract works well as a substitute. The almond flavor enhances cherries, but it’s optional.
How Do I Keep the Topping Crisp?
Don’t overmix or overbake. Leaving the topping loose as crumbs, and not burying it into the fruit, helps maintain crispness.
Can I Make This Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free?
Certainly. Gluten-free cake mix substitutes nicely. For dairy-free, use margarine or coconut oil instead of butter. The crumble will be slightly different but still delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry cobbler is at its best warm from the oven. Elevate your dessert by pairing it with:
- Vanilla ice cream: The creamy cold melts into warm fruit.
- Sweetened whipped cream: For a light, airy finish.
- Crème fraîche: Adds a tangy contrast.
If you’re serving for a dinner party or holiday, sprinkle the top with powdered sugar just before bringing to the table.
Storage and Reheating
Cobbler stores well, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
- Refrigerate: Cover with foil or plastic wrap and chill for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Portion into airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To Serve: Defrost in the fridge, then rewarm in the oven at 300°F until heated through. Microwave individual servings if desired.
For best texture, reheat in the oven to keep the topping crisp.
Making Ahead
Assemble the cobbler up to a day in advance. Keep chilled until it’s time to bake. Add an extra five minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
Nutrition Overview
| Serving Size | Calories | Carbs | Fat | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/8 cobbler | ~320 | 52g | 11g | 2g |
Values approximate and vary by cake mix and add-ins.
When you want dessert that’s both homey and effortless, cherry cobbler with cake mix is hard to beat. The vibrant cherries bubble beneath a golden, crisp topping, filling your kitchen with sweet nostalgia. With endless ways to personalize and a foolproof prep, this recipe belongs in every home cook’s repertoire. Serve it plain, dress it up, or enjoy it straight from the pan—the only rule is to savor every bite.
Cherry Cobbler with Cake Mix (Easy Recipe)
Cherry cobbler with cake mix is a super-simple recipe. It’s guaranteed to knock your socks off. You won’t believe how easy it is to make, too!
Ingredients
- 1 box white cake mix
- Ice cream, optional
- 2 (21-ounce) cans cherry pie filling
- 1/2 cup butter, melted and cooled to room temperature
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9x9-inch glass baking dish with butter or baking spray.
- Pour cherry pie filling into the dish and spread evenly.
- Place the white cake mix in a large bowl. Gradually pour the melted and cooled butter and whisk until crumbly.
- Sprinkle half of the cake crumble over the pie filling. Stir gently until slightly combined. Sprinkle the remaining cake crumble over the filling and pat it down with a rubber spatula.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Serve with optional ice cream. Enjoy!