Easy Fruit Cobbler

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Introduction

This Easy Fruit Cobbler is the definition of comfort baking—warm, buttery, and irresistibly simple. Using cake mix and canned pie filling, it delivers a homemade taste with minimal effort. Perfect for busy days, last-minute guests, or when you’re craving a cozy dessert, this cobbler shines even brighter when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Origin

Fruit cobblers trace their roots back to early American settlers who adapted traditional European puddings to life in the New World. Without access to proper ovens or ingredients, they layered fruit with simple dough or batter and baked it until golden. Over time, cobblers evolved into countless regional variations, including modern shortcut versions using cake mix.

Cultural Significance

In American kitchens, fruit cobbler represents warmth, hospitality, and family gatherings. It’s a staple at potlucks, holidays, and Sunday dinners—especially in Southern cuisine. This easy version continues that tradition by making the dessert accessible to everyone, regardless of baking experience.

Ingredients Quantity

  • Non-stick cooking spray (such as PAM): as needed
  • Pie filling (any flavor):
    • 1 can for an 8″ × 8″ pan
    • 2 cans for a 9″ × 13″ pan
  • Jiffy Golden Yellow Cake Mix:
    • 1 box for an 8″ × 8″ pan
    • 2 boxes for a 9″ × 13″ pan
  • Butter: ½ to ¾ stick, sliced
  • Sugar: to taste
  • Cinnamon: to taste

Optional Additions

  • Rolled oats for extra crunch
  • Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
  • A drizzle of maple syrup over the fruit
  • Vanilla extract mixed into the cake layer
  • Fresh fruit mixed with the pie filling
  • A pinch of nutmeg for warmth

Tips for Success

  • Do not mix the cake mix—sprinkling it dry creates the classic cobbler texture.
  • Slice butter evenly to ensure uniform browning.
  • Adjust sugar depending on the sweetness of your pie filling.
  • Let the cobbler rest for 10 minutes before serving to set properly.

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spray the baking dish generously with non-stick cooking spray.
  3. Spread the pie filling evenly across the bottom of the dish.
  4. Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the fruit layer.
  5. Dust lightly with sugar and cinnamon to taste.
  6. Arrange butter slices evenly over the top.
  7. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  8. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Description

This fruit cobbler emerges from the oven with a crisp, golden topping and a rich, jammy fruit base underneath. The contrast between the crunchy cake layer and the soft, warm fruit makes every bite deeply satisfying. Simple, rustic, and indulgent, it’s dessert comfort at its finest.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: 280–330
  • Carbohydrates: 45–50 g
  • Fat: 10–14 g
  • Protein: 2–4 g
  • Sugar: 25–30 g

Values vary depending on fruit flavor, butter amount, and serving size.

Conclusion

This Easy Fruit Cobbler proves that delicious desserts don’t need to be complicated. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a timeless treat that feels both nostalgic and indulgent.

Recommendation

Serve this cobbler warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for the ultimate dessert experience. It’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, or casual gatherings with friends.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While this cobbler is undeniably a treat, you can lighten it up by using reduced-sugar pie filling, adding oats for fiber, or serving smaller portions with fresh fruit on the side. Enjoying dessert mindfully allows you to savor every bite while still honoring balance and well-being.

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