Decadent Cherry Chocolate Cobbler: A Warm, Gooey Delight

Craving a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent? Look no further than this incredible Cherry Chocolate Cobbler. The combination of sweet, juicy cherries and rich, dark chocolate creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight treat or a show-stopping dessert for a special occasion.

## Why You’ll Love This Cherry Chocolate Cobbler

* **Easy to Make:** This recipe is incredibly straightforward, using simple ingredients and requiring minimal effort.
* **Delicious Flavor Combination:** The combination of cherries and chocolate is a classic for a reason. The tartness of the cherries perfectly balances the richness of the chocolate.
* **Warm and Comforting:** A warm cobbler is the ultimate comfort food, especially on a chilly evening.
* **Impressive Presentation:** Despite its simplicity, this cobbler looks absolutely stunning, making it perfect for entertaining.
* **Versatile:** You can easily adapt this recipe to use different types of cherries, chocolate, or even add other fruits.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

### For the Cherry Filling:

* **6 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries:** Fresh cherries are ideal when in season, but frozen cherries work just as well. If using frozen, do not thaw them before using.
* **1/2 cup granulated sugar:** Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste, depending on the sweetness of the cherries.
* **2 tablespoons cornstarch:** This helps to thicken the cherry filling and create a glossy sauce.
* **1 tablespoon lemon juice:** This brightens the flavor of the cherries and adds a touch of acidity.
* **1 teaspoon almond extract (optional):** Almond extract enhances the cherry flavor beautifully.
* **1/4 cup water:** Helps to create the cherry sauce.

### For the Chocolate Cobbler Topping:

* **1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour:** Provides the structure for the cobbler topping.
* **1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder:** Adds a rich chocolate flavor and gives the topping a beautiful dark color.
* **1 1/2 cups granulated sugar:** Sweetens the cobbler topping.
* **2 teaspoons baking powder:** Helps the cobbler topping to rise and become light and fluffy.
* **1/2 teaspoon salt:** Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
* **3/4 cup milk:** Adds moisture to the cobbler topping.
* **1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted:** Adds richness and flavor to the cobbler topping and helps it to brown beautifully.
* **1 teaspoon vanilla extract:** Enhances the chocolate flavor.
* **1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional):** Adds extra chocolate goodness to the topping.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **9×13 inch baking dish:** This is the perfect size for this cobbler recipe.
* **Large saucepan:** For making the cherry filling.
* **Mixing bowls:** For preparing the cobbler topping.
* **Whisk:** For combining the dry ingredients for the cobbler topping.
* **Wooden spoon or spatula:** For stirring the cherry filling and the cobbler topping.
* **Measuring cups and spoons:** For accurate ingredient measurements.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

### Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Filling

1. In a large saucepan, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, almond extract (if using), and water.
2. Stir well to ensure that the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the cherry filling has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and set aside.

### Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Cobbler Topping

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in the chocolate chips (if using).

### Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Cobbler

1. Pour the cherry filling into the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Spoon the chocolate cobbler topping evenly over the cherry filling. You can drop spoonfuls of the batter over the cherries. It doesn’t need to be perfectly smooth; a rustic look is part of the charm.
3. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cobbler topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Let the cobbler cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to thicken slightly and prevents burning your mouth.

## Tips for the Perfect Cherry Chocolate Cobbler

* **Use high-quality chocolate:** The better the quality of the chocolate, the richer and more flavorful the cobbler will be. Consider using Dutch-processed cocoa powder for a deeper, more intense chocolate flavor.
* **Don’t overmix the cobbler topping:** Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cobbler topping. Mix until just combined.
* **Adjust the sweetness to your taste:** If you prefer a less sweet cobbler, reduce the amount of sugar in both the filling and the topping.
* **Use a combination of sweet and tart cherries:** This will create a more complex and interesting flavor profile.
* **Add a pinch of salt to the cherry filling:** This will enhance the sweetness of the cherries and balance the flavors.
* **Let the cobbler cool slightly before serving:** This will prevent burning your mouth and allow the filling to thicken slightly.
* **Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream:** This is the perfect complement to the warm, gooey cobbler.
* **If using frozen cherries, do not thaw them:** Adding frozen cherries directly to the filling helps prevent it from becoming too watery.
* **For a richer flavor, use brown sugar:** Substituting some of the granulated sugar with brown sugar adds a caramel-like note to the cobbler topping.
* **Add a streusel topping:** For extra texture and flavor, consider adding a streusel topping made with flour, butter, sugar, and nuts.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Different Fruits:** You can easily substitute other fruits for the cherries, such as blueberries, raspberries, peaches, or apples.
* **Different Chocolate:** Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even chocolate chunks.
* **Nuts:** Add chopped nuts, such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds, to the cobbler topping for added crunch and flavor.
* **Spices:** Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the cobbler topping for a warm, comforting flavor.
* **Liqueur:** Add a tablespoon or two of cherry liqueur or chocolate liqueur to the cherry filling for an extra kick of flavor.
* **Gluten-Free:** Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this cobbler gluten-free.
* **Dairy-Free:** Substitute the milk with a plant-based milk alternative, such as almond milk or soy milk, and use a dairy-free butter substitute.

## Serving Suggestions

This Cherry Chocolate Cobbler is delicious served warm, straight from the oven. It’s also great served with:

* **Vanilla ice cream:** The classic pairing.
* **Whipped cream:** Light and airy.
* **Chocolate sauce:** For extra indulgence.
* **A sprinkle of cocoa powder:** For a beautiful presentation.
* **Fresh mint sprigs:** For a touch of freshness.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

You can prepare the cherry filling and the cobbler topping ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake the cobbler, simply assemble it and bake as directed.

## Storage Instructions

Store leftover Cherry Chocolate Cobbler in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

## Cherry Chocolate Cobbler Recipe

Now that you have all the information, here is the complete recipe:

**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 35 minutes
**Total time:** 55 minutes
**Servings:** 8-10

### Ingredients:

#### Cherry Filling:

* 6 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 2 tablespoons cornstarch
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
* 1/4 cup water

#### Chocolate Cobbler Topping:

* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
* 2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 3/4 cup milk
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Cherry Filling:** In a large saucepan, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, almond extract (if using), and water. Stir well. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened. Remove from heat.
2. **Prepare the Chocolate Cobbler Topping:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips (if using).
3. **Assemble and Bake:** Pour the cherry filling into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spoon the chocolate cobbler topping evenly over the filling. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.
4. **Serve:** Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or your favorite topping.

## Nutritional Information (approximate per serving)

* Calories: 350-450
* Fat: 15-20g
* Saturated Fat: 9-12g
* Cholesterol: 40-50mg
* Sodium: 200-250mg
* Carbohydrates: 50-60g
* Fiber: 3-5g
* Sugar: 30-40g
* Protein: 4-6g

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

## Enjoy!

This Cherry Chocolate Cobbler is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting dessert, this recipe is sure to satisfy. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a warm, gooey slice of heaven!

## Call to Action

What are you waiting for? Try this recipe today and share your creations with us on social media! Don’t forget to tag us with #CherryChocolateCobbler #DessertRecipe #BakingLove.

Happy Baking!