Magic Lemon Cobbler is a delightful dessert that combines the rich taste of butter with the refreshing tang of lemon. This recipe features a simple batter made with flour, sugar, and buttermilk, enhanced with vanilla and lemon extracts. The star of the dish is the lemon pie filling, which adds a luscious, citrusy layer. As it bakes, the cobbler forms a beautiful golden crust with a soft, tender interior. It's easy to make and perfect for any occasion, served warm with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Indulge in the zesty and sweet delight of Magic Lemon Cobbler, a dessert that combines the richness of butter with the refreshing tang of lemon. This cobbler is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a must-try for any lemon lover.
Before we dive into the magic of baking this delicious dessert, let's gather the essential ingredients you'll need.
INGREDIENTS
- Butter: ½ cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter, melted to create a rich base for the cobbler.
- Flour: 1 cup of all-purpose flour provides structure and a soft texture.
- Baking Powder: 1 ½ teaspoons to give the cobbler a light and fluffy rise.
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon to enhance the flavors.
- Sugar: 1 cup of granulated sugar adds the perfect level of sweetness.
- Buttermilk: 1 cup of buttermilk for a tender and moist crumb.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon for a hint of warm, aromatic flavor.
- Lemon Extract: 1 teaspoon to infuse the batter with a vibrant citrusy note.
- Lemon Pie Filling: 21-ounce can of lemon pie filling, adding a luscious, tangy layer to the cobbler.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). As the oven warms up, place a stick of butter in a 9×9-inch square baking dish. Let it melt in the oven for about 3-4 minutes until fully liquefied. Once melted, carefully remove the dish from the oven and set it aside.
- Step 2:
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This dry mixture will form the base of your cobbler's batter. Add the sugar and mix well to ensure an even distribution of sweetness.
- Step 3:
- Pour the buttermilk into the dry ingredient mixture, followed by the vanilla extract and lemon extract. Whisk everything together until a smooth batter forms. The buttermilk adds a slight tang, complementing the lemon flavor.
- Step 4:
- Carefully pour the batter over the melted butter in the baking dish. Do not stir; the batter and butter will create a layered effect as the cobbler bakes. Next, spoon the lemon pie filling over the batter, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
- Step 5:
- Bake the cobbler in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the top is set. The cobbler should be bubbling and fragrant, signaling that it's ready to come out of the oven.
- Step 6:
- Allow the Magic Lemon Cobbler to cool slightly before serving. This resting time helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to slice. Serve warm or at room temperature, enjoying the perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors with a buttery, tender crust.
Serving and Storage Tips
Here are some tips to enjoy and preserve the deliciousness of your Magic Lemon Cobbler:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
- This cobbler pairs perfectly with a cup of hot tea or a refreshing glass of lemonade.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until heated through.
- If you prefer a crispier texture, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Helpful Notes
Here are a few variations and tips to customize your Magic Lemon Cobbler experience:
- For a more intense lemon flavor, add the zest of one lemon to the batter.
- Experiment with different fruit fillings, such as blueberry or cherry, for a twist on this classic recipe.
- To make the cobbler gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top just before serving for an elegant touch.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Nigella Lawson: Always use fresh ingredients, especially when it comes to extracts and fillings, to enhance the natural flavors.
- Chef Alton Brown: When baking, precise measurements are key to achieving the perfect texture and taste.
- Chef Mary Berry: Let your cobbler rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to fully develop.