Cherry Cobbler with Cake Mix Recipe

If you are craving a dessert that’s both comforting and effortless to whip up, this Cherry Cobbler with Cake Mix Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It combines the bright, tart sweetness of cherry pie filling with the rich, buttery texture of a cake-mix topping, all baked to golden perfection. In less than an hour, you get a warm, gooey, and slightly crunchy treat that feels special but takes barely any time or fuss in the kitchen. Trust me, this recipe is pure joy on a plate and perfectly designed for sharing with family or friends any day of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is a beautiful example of how simplicity can deliver incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role—from the juicy cherries that give vibrant color and sweetness, to the cake mix that forms a tender, buttery crust enhanced by coconut and pecans for a bit of crunch and tropical flair.

• 42 ounces canned cherry pie filling: The star of the show, providing luscious cherries and natural sweetness with the perfect thick syrup that bubbles during baking.
• 15.2 ounce box yellow cake mix: A quick shortcut that creates a moist yet slightly crumbly topping that browns beautifully.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds rich flavor and helps the topping come together with a golden crust.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall aroma with warm, inviting notes.
• ⅓ cup sweetened shredded coconut: Provides a subtle chewiness and a touch of tropical sweetness that complements the cherries perfectly.
• ⅓ cup pecans, finely chopped: Introduces a lovely crunch and nutty depth to the topping.

How to Make Cherry Cobbler with Cake Mix Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, ensuring it’s perfectly heated by the time your cobbler is ready to go in. Then, grease a 2-quart oval baking dish or a 10-inch cast iron skillet lightly with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Fill it evenly with the cherry pie filling and set it aside while you prepare the cake mix topping.

Step 2: Mix the Topping Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry yellow cake mix, melted butter, sweetened shredded coconut, and finely chopped pecans. Add the vanilla extract for that extra layer of flavor. Stir everything together with a fork until the mixture resembles a rough cookie dough—not too wet but well combined. This step is crucial because the texture guarantees a topping that’s both tender and lightly crunchy after baking.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Carefully sprinkle the cake mix topping evenly over the cherry filling in your prepared dish. Try to cover the entire surface but don’t press down—letting it remain crumbly helps it bake into a beautiful crust. Place the cobbler in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown and you see the cherries bubbling up along the edges.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove your cherry cobbler with cake mix recipe from the oven and allow it to cool slightly for about 10 to 15 minutes. This resting time lets the filling thicken just enough so it’s not too runny but still warm and inviting. Serve it warm or at room temperature for the most satisfying experience.

How to Serve Cherry Cobbler with Cake Mix Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your cherry cobbler, consider a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A sprinkle of toasted coconut or a few extra chopped pecans on top adds a lovely crunch and an appealing look. Fresh mint leaves can bring a fresh contrast in color and aroma if you’re feeling fancy.

Side Dishes

This cherry cobbler shines on its own but pairs beautifully with light accompaniments such as a crisp cup of coffee, a refreshing glass of milk, or even a fruity sparkling beverage for celebrations. If you want to serve it at a casual brunch or dinner, a simple green salad or roasted nuts provide a nice balance without overshadowing the dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Imagine serving the cobbler straight from a rustic cast iron skillet for a cozy, homey feel. You can also make individual portions in ramekins for charming single servings that look extra special. For a playful twist, serve it with creative toppings like cinnamon sugar or drizzle with a bit of chocolate sauce or caramel for added indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cherry cobbler with cake mix recipe should be stored covered in the refrigerator. Use an airtight container or tightly wrap the baking dish with plastic wrap to keep it fresh and prevent the cake topping from drying out. It will stay delicious for 3 to 4 days.

Freezing

If you want to save cobbler for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual portions or the whole baking dish securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. Frozen cobbler maintains its flavor and texture for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To enjoy your cherry cobbler warm after storage, reheat in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 15 to 20 minutes or until heated through. Microwaving works, too, but the oven helps retain the crispness of the topping better. Reheating brings back all the comforting, gooey goodness you love.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?

Absolutely! Using fresh cherries requires a bit more preparation—you’ll want to pit and cook them down with sugar and a thickener like cornstarch to mimic the pie filling texture. It’s delicious, but canned filling is the shortcut that keeps this recipe quick and easy.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free version to accommodate dietary needs. Make sure the rest of your ingredients, like pie filling and shredded coconut, are also gluten-free certified for the best results.

Can I make this cherry cobbler ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cobbler up until the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. When ready, just bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from cold.

What can I use instead of shredded coconut?

If you’re not a fan of coconut, feel free to leave it out or replace it with more chopped nuts or even oats for texture. The topping will still be delicious and slightly crunchy.

Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?

Definitely! To serve more people, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish or two smaller ones. Keep an eye on baking time, as it may take a bit longer to bake through.

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Cobbler with Cake Mix Recipe is one of those magical desserts that tastes like homemade indulgence but comes together with ease and speed. It has a timeless charm and flavor that bring people together, whether for a cozy family dessert or a last-minute gathering. Give it a try soon—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this tasty, satisfying treat in your recipe collection.

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