Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main fruit used in this cobbler?
The main fruit used is sour cherries, specifically one cup of drained sour cherries.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) before baking.
How long does the Classic Sour Cherry Cobbler take to bake?
The cobbler should bake for 15-20 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
What size baking pan is required?
An 8-inch baking pan is recommended for this recipe.
Do I need to grease the baking pan?
Yes, spray the 8-inch pan with non-stick spray to prevent the cherries and topping from sticking.
Can I use the juice from the sour cherries?
Yes, you should reserve the juice to create a thickened sauce by heating it with flour and salt.
What should I do if I want a more vibrant red color?
You can add a few drops of red food coloring to the cherry juice mixture if desired.
What type of extract is used for flavoring?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract to enhance the flavor of the cherries.
How do I prepare the topping mixture?
Sift the dry ingredients, cut in the margarine until it resembles coarse crumbs, and then stir in the milk.
Should I overmix the batter?
No, you should stir the milk into the dry ingredients until just combined to avoid a tough topping.
How is the batter applied to the cherries?
The batter is dropped by spoonfuls evenly over the cherry mixture in the pan.
What is the final step before putting the cobbler in the oven?
Brush the topping with a little milk and sprinkle with additional sugar to taste.
How do I know when the cobbler is finished baking?
It is done when the topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the topping comes out clean.
Can I substitute margarine with butter?
Yes, butter can be used as a substitute for margarine in the topping.
What are the best serving suggestions?
The cobbler is best served warm, potentially with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
How much sugar is needed for the recipe?
A total of 1/2 cup of granulated sugar is used, which is divided between the filling and the topping.
Is all-purpose flour the right choice for this recipe?
Yes, the recipe uses 1 cup of all-purpose flour, divided between the sauce and the dough.
How much baking powder is required?
The recipe requires 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder for the topping.
Can I use a different type of milk?
While the recipe calls for standard milk, you can likely substitute it with a non-dairy alternative if needed.
What is the purpose of the cherry juice sauce?
The sauce adds moisture and a concentrated cherry flavor to the fruit base of the cobbler.
Does this recipe contain salt?
Yes, it uses 1/4 teaspoon of salt, divided between the juice mixture and the dry topping ingredients.
Is this a good dessert for gatherings?
Yes, its easy preparation and classic flavor make it ideal for sharing with friends and family.
What is the texture of the cobbler topping?
The topping is buttery and crumbly, baking up into a golden crust.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?
Yes, but ensure you have enough juice or liquid to create the thickened sauce layer.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 9 ingredients: sour cherries, sugar, flour, salt, almond extract, baking powder, margarine, milk, and optional food coloring.
What if I don't have almond extract?
You can omit it or substitute with vanilla extract, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
Do I need to cook the cherry juice?
Yes, you should heat it in a saucepan with flour and salt for about 2 minutes until it thickens.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an 'easy recipe' and involves straightforward baking steps.
Should I let the cobbler cool before eating?
Allow it to cool slightly so the sauce sets, but it is best enjoyed while still warm.
What makes this a 'Classic' cobbler?
It uses the traditional method of a fruit base topped with a dropped-biscuit style batter.