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This 3 ingredient blueberry cobbler delivers pure old fashioned comfort in a pan with barely any effort or fancy equipment. Just pie filling, a boxed cake mix and a stick of butter come together for an easy-bake treat just right for weeknights or casual gatherings whenever a fruity dessert craving sneaks up.
The first time I tried this cobbler was for a summer block party where I was short on time and needed something stress free. It was such a hit everyone wanted the recipe and now I keep the ingredients on hand just in case company pops by.
Ingredients
- Yellow cake mix: adds lift and a fluffy topping choose a mix with real vanilla for best flavor
- Blueberry pie filling: brings sweet tart blueberry flavor you can use a brand that is loaded with whole berries for the juiciest texture
- Butter: creates rich flavor throughout and gives that golden crispy cobbler crown using very cold butter lets it flake and brown better
- Optional vanilla ice cream for serving: makes each bite even creamier select a slow churned or premium brand for true dessert joy
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Coat a nine by thirteen inch cake pan with a light misting of cooking spray so the cobbler does not stick and clean up stays easy
- Layer the First Cake Mix:
- Empty about half the cake mix into the prepared pan then use your hands or the back of a spoon to make a gentle even layer making sure to reach every edge and corner for a steady base
- Spread the Blueberry Pie Filling:
- Spoon both cans of blueberry pie filling over the cake mix base try to distribute the fruit evenly and gently coax the filling to cover without digging into the cake mix underneath
- Finish with Remaining Cake Mix:
- Scatter the rest of the cake mix evenly over the top of the blueberry filling try not to pile it thick in any spot for the most even bake
- Add Butter:
- Grate one stick of extra cold butter using a box grater the little curls of butter will melt and seep into the mix more evenly than slices scatter the butter curls all over the surface getting into the edges and corners
- Bake:
- Slide the pan into your oven set at three hundred and seventy five degrees then bake for about forty minutes until the top is deep golden and the berries bubble at the edges watching during the last few minutes so it does not overbrown
- Serve:
- Let the cobbler settle for a few minutes then scoop into bowls and serve steaming hot for ultimate comfort a big scoop of vanilla ice cream is magic on top as it melts
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You Must Know
- This cobbler is the definition of easy comfort food
- Stores surprisingly well in the fridge for leftovers if you reheat gently
- You can try swapping the fruit filling when you want to change things up
My favorite part is always the melted edges where the blueberries turn jammy and the buttery cake crisps up My grandma used to make a version like this and sneaking the crispy corners right out of the pan is still the best treat for me
Storage Tips
Leftover cobbler keeps well covered in the refrigerator for three days It is best to reheat in the oven so the topping gets crisp again but a quick zap in the microwave works just fine too To freeze wrap in small portions and store in an airtight container up to two months
Ingredient Substitutions
If you have extra pie fillings like cherry or apple on hand you can swap those in for blueberry For a dairy free option try plant based butter The cake mix variety can also be swapped for white or even spice cake for a new flavor twist
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Serving Suggestions
Cobbler is made for sharing Serve warm right from the oven with scoops of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream For a brunch spread pair with hot coffee or tea For even more decadence drizzle a little cream or spoon over Greek yogurt for a dessert breakfast
Cultural or Historical Context
Dump cobblers like this one became beloved in America for being thrifty and low fuss especially for busy families and church gatherings The three part dump and bake format rose to fame in the mid century kitchen thanks to convenience mixes and ready made fillings It is the sort of comforting recipe that always brings people together
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh blueberries instead of pie filling?
For this dish’s simplicity, pie filling works best to achieve the correct consistency and sweetness. Fresh berries may require extra sugar and thickener.
- → What type of cake mix is recommended?
Yellow boxed cake mix provides a rich, buttery base, but white cake mix can be substituted for a lighter flavor.
- → Do I need to melt the butter?
No, grating cold butter over the top ensures an even, golden crust as it bakes and melds with the topping.
- → Can I add extra flavors or spices?
A touch of lemon zest or a sprinkle of cinnamon can add depth to the cobbler, enhancing the natural blueberry flavor.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat portions in the oven or microwave for best results.
- → Is ice cream necessary for serving?
While optional, vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast, but whipped cream or plain serves well, too.