We’ve always been fans of Cracker Barrel’s comforting classics, and their Cherry Chocolate Cobbler stands out as a cozy favorite that blends juicy cherries with rich chocolate in a warm, irresistible treat. Inspired by the diner chain’s homestyle vibe, we’re excited to bring this easy recipe straight to your kitchen for a taste of Americana.
This dessert isn’t just delicious—it’s a simple way to create memorable moments with family. We’ll guide you through the steps to whip up a cobbler that’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight indulgences to holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
To bring our take on the Cracker Barrel Cherry Chocolate Cobbler to life, we start by assembling these key ingredients in the order they’ll be used—from the juicy cherry base to the rich chocolate topping. This ensures a seamless preparation process for that comforting, homestyle dessert.
Cherry Filling Ingredients
- 2 cans (21 oz each) of cherry pie filling: We use this as the base for its sweet, tart flavor that captures the essence of Cracker Barrel’s vibe.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the cherries’ tartness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Freshly squeezed, to enhance the fruit’s natural brightness before layering.
Chocolate Topping Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Sifted for a light, fluffy texture in the cobbler topping.
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides that deep, rich chocolate profile we love in this recipe.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the topping rise and achieve a tender crumb.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: A pinch to amplify the chocolate flavors without overwhelming.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Mixed into the dry ingredients for even sweetness.
- ½ cup milk: Whole milk works best for a creamy batter consistency.
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter: Melted, to bind the topping and add a buttery richness.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Folded in last for gooey, melty pockets of chocolate throughout the cobbler.
Equipment Needed
To recreate our Cracker Barrel Cherry Chocolate Cobbler with ease, we rely on a few key tools that streamline the baking process and ensure perfect results every time. Gathering these items beforehand helps us achieve that homestyle diner vibe in our own kitchens.
Essential Tools
When preparing this comforting dessert, we focus on Essential Tools that make mixing, baking, and serving straightforward. Below is a detailed list of the equipment we’ll use, with bold for key items and italics for specific notes on their roles:
- 9×13 inch baking dish: Our primary vessel for assembling and baking the cobbler; ensures even cooking and a golden crust.
- Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining the chocolate topping ingredients; its spacious design prevents spills while whisking.
- Medium mixing bowl: Used for preparing the cherry filling; helps keep wet and dry ingredients separate for better texture.
- Measuring cups and spoons set: Crucial for accurate measurements of flour, sugar, and liquids; we recommend a standard set for precision in this recipe.
- Whisk: Perfect for blending dry ingredients smoothly; its wires create a fluffy topping without lumps.
- Rubber spatula: Essential for folding in chocolate chips and scraping bowls clean; ensures no batter is wasted.
- Oven mitts: Protects our hands when handling the hot baking dish; a must for safe removal from the oven.
This setup keeps our Cracker Barrel Cherry Chocolate Cobbler preparation efficient and enjoyable, building on the ingredients we discussed earlier.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients and equipment, we guide you through the straightforward steps to craft our Cracker Barrel Cherry Chocolate Cobbler. Follow these instructions closely for a dessert that delivers juicy cherries and a rich, chocolatey topping.
Prepare the Ingredients
First, we start by prepping our components to ensure everything blends seamlessly. Begin with the cherry filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine two cans of cherry pie filling, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns glossy with a sweet-tart aroma that promises a vibrant base.
Next, tackle the chocolate topping: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ¾ cup of granulated sugar. The dry ingredients should form a uniform, fluffy powder that smells deeply of chocolate. In a separate bowl, mix ½ cup of milk with ⅓ cup of melted butter until smooth, then gradually incorporate this wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Finally, fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips using a rubber spatula, creating a batter that’s thick and speckled with chips for that irresistible texture.
Assemble the Cobbler
With our ingredients prepped, we now layer them in the baking dish for a harmonious blend of flavors. Pour the cherry filling evenly into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out to cover the bottom completely. The filling should glisten with cherries that hint at their juicy burst.
Over the filling, spoon the chocolate topping batter in dollops, then gently spread it to form an even layer. As you work, you’ll notice the batter’s rich, cocoa scent mingling with the cherries, promising a golden, crumbly crust that contrasts perfectly with the soft fruit below. For added indulgence, sprinkle any extra chocolate chips on top if desired, ensuring the assembly creates a visually appealing, layered effect ready for the oven.
Bake the Cobbler
We bake to perfection, transforming our assembly into a warm, aromatic dessert. Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the baking dish on the center rack. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the top turns a deep golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs.
Throughout baking, the kitchen will fill with the irresistible scent of melting chocolate and bubbling cherries, signaling a treat that’s crisp on top and gooey inside. Once done, use oven mitts to remove the dish and let it cool for about 10 minutes on a wire rack before serving, allowing the flavors to settle into a comforting, homestyle delight.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our Cracker Barrel Cherry Chocolate Cobbler recipe is its flexibility for busy schedules—we can prepare components in advance to save time without sacrificing that warm, homestyle flavor. Below, we outline step-by-step instructions for making ahead, ensuring your dessert remains fresh and delicious.
Preparing the Cherry Filling Ahead
To get a head start, we recommend preparing the cherry filling up to 2 days in advance. Here’s how:
- In a mixing bowl, combine two 21-ounce cans of cherry pie filling, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice until fully mixed and glossy.
- Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate it immediately. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the tart-sweet profile of the cherries.
Preparing the Chocolate Topping Ahead
The chocolate topping can also be made ahead, but handle it carefully to maintain its light, fluffy texture. We suggest preparing it no more than 1 day in advance:
- Whisk together the dry ingredients: 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients: 3/4 cup of milk and 1/3 cup of melted butter. Combine with the dry mixture, then fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Cover the batter tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container, and store it in the refrigerator. Note that the batter may thicken slightly, so give it a gentle stir before use.
Storage and Assembly Tips
For optimal results, we advise the following storage guidelines to keep your Cracker Barrel Cherry Chocolate Cobbler components fresh:
| Component | Storage Method | Maximum Time | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cherry Filling | Refrigerate in an airtight container | Up to 2 days | Stir before using to redistribute juices and prevent separation. |
| Chocolate Topping | Refrigerate in an airtight container | Up to 1 day | If it firms up, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften before assembling. |
When you’re ready to bake, assemble the cobbler by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading the cherry filling evenly, and dolloping the chocolate topping over it. Bake at 350°F for 40 to 50 minutes as per our main instructions. If assembling from the fridge, add 5 minutes to the baking time to ensure everything heats through evenly.
For longer storage, we can freeze the fully assembled (but unbaked) cobbler for up to 3 months. Wrap the baking dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed, adding extra time if needed for a golden-brown finish. This approach keeps the comforting aroma of chocolate and cherries ready for any occasion.
Conclusion
We’ve cherished recreating Cracker Barrel’s Cherry Chocolate Cobbler in our own homes, turning simple ingredients into pure comfort. It’s more than a recipe—it’s a way to spark joy and togetherness at any table.
Share your twists with us and enjoy the cozy vibes it brings to every occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cracker Barrel’s Cherry Chocolate Cobbler?
Cracker Barrel’s Cherry Chocolate Cobbler is a cozy, homestyle dessert featuring juicy cherries and rich chocolate, inspired by the diner chain’s comforting vibe. It’s a simple treat that combines a sweet-tart cherry filling with a fluffy chocolate topping, perfect for family gatherings or casual nights. This recipe recreates that nostalgic flavor at home, making it easy to enjoy on various occasions.
What ingredients are needed for the recipe?
For the cherry filling, you’ll need two cans of cherry pie filling, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. The chocolate topping requires all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, milk, melted butter, and semi-sweet chocolate chips. These straightforward ingredients create a balanced, flavorful cobbler that’s simple to assemble.
How do I make Cherry Chocolate Cobbler at home?
Start by mixing the cherry filling ingredients until glossy. Whisk together the dry ingredients for the topping, then add milk and melted butter, folding in chocolate chips. Layer the filling in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, dollop on the topping, and bake at 350°F for 40-50 minutes until golden. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Can I prepare this cobbler in advance?
Yes, you can make the cherry filling up to 2 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The chocolate topping can be prepped up to 1 day in advance. You can also assemble the full cobbler and freeze it unbaked for up to 3 months—just thaw and bake when ready, keeping flavors fresh for busy schedules.
How should I store leftover cobbler?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm, which helps maintain the cobbler’s texture and prevents sogginess.
What equipment do I need to make this recipe?
You’ll need a 9×13-inch baking dish, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk, a rubber spatula, and oven mitts. This basic setup ensures efficient preparation and safe handling, making the baking process enjoyable and straightforward for home cooks.