Old Fashioned Blueberry Cobbler

Our old fashioned blueberry cobbler recipe is the perfect dessert and a tasty way to use the abundance of fresh summer berries. The top crust is sweet and buttery, while the warm fruit filling is the perfect balance of sweet and tart.

And this easy dessert recipe takes very little prep work, calls for basic pantry ingredients and is ready in about 1 hour.

I think it’s almost against the law to go through blueberry season without making a cobbler! These were always a family favorite growing up, and every time I have a bite of warm cobbler, it takes me back to my childhood.  

The version we baked up today is made with fresh blueberries and topped with a crispy biscuit-style topping. But we’ve included tips to make it with frozen berries or even swap out for your favorite fruits if that’s your preference. 

This classic dessert is a true crowd-pleaser and perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the game, this recipe offers an easy step into the world of homestyle baking. 

If you find yourself with more ripe blueberries than you know what to do with, try my layered angel food cake or summer berry cheesecake salad. 

Blueberry Cobbler Ingredients

For the Fruit Filling

• fresh blueberries – rinse, drain, and pat dry with paper towels. 
• lemon juice – fresh is the best, but you can use store bought if that is what you have on hand. 
• lemon zest – when zesting the lemon, be careful to not get into the rind (white part).
• granulated sugar – adds just the right amount of sweetness to bring out the natural flavors of the blueberries. 
• flour – we used all-purpose to thicken the filling.
• ground cinnamon – adds a warming flavor. 

For the Topping:

• all-purpose flour and granulated sugar – the base for the crust. 
• baking powder – helps the topping to rise, so make sure it is not out of date.
• salt – deepens the flavors just a bit.
• unsalted butter – let it soften at room temperature, then slice into cubes. This makes it easier to cut into the flour. 
• milk – thins out the batter so it’s the perfect consistency.
• coarse sugar – totally optional, but it adds texture to the crust and adds a bakery-style finish. 

How To Make Old Fashioned Blueberry Cobbler Recipe

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray. 

Prepare the berry filling by combining the blueberries, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a large bowl. 

Whisk together sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle over the berries and gently toss so they are coated evenly. 

Pour the berry mixture into the prepared baking dish. 

To make the topping, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Add the cubed butter and work the mixture until small crumbles form. 

Slowly add the milk, stirring after each addition. 

Spoon the topping over the top of the blueberries, and spread it out slightly. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown. 

Tips for Making Cobbler with Fresh Fruit

• Use fresh, ripe berries for the best flavor and texture.
• Taste your blueberries and adjust the sugar amounts if needed – add more for tarter berries and less for sweeter berries.
• If you have a pastry cutter, it works well to cut the butter into the flour for the topping. 
• I use a microplane zester to remove the outer layer of citrus fruits. Make sure you avoid going into the white pith (it’s very bitter).
• For best results, avoid using store-bought pie filling with this recipe. It is typically made with sugar and spices and you won’t get the same results you would with fresh blueberries.

Recipe Substitutions and Variations 

• Frozen blueberries – If you are going to use frozen berries, I prefer using wild blueberries. They are smaller in size and sweeter. You’ll want to let them thaw first and drain as much liquid off as you can. The excess moisture releases when baking and can make the top crust soggy and filling a little bit runny. 
• Coarse sugar – sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking for a fancier presentation. 
• Other fresh fruit – you can also make this easy cobbler recipe using a mixed berry blend or all blackberries. 

What to Serve With Fruit Cobbler

You can add a dollop of homemade whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to this blueberry dessert. Top with more fresh berries for even more fruity goodness.

How to Store Leftover Blueberry Dessert

Place leftover cobbler in an airtight container (or cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil) for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Leftovers are best served warm. Simply reheat individual servings in the microwave. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, the cobbler can be assembled and refrigerated for a few hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I freeze fruit cobbler?

Homemade cobblers can be frozen once they have been cooked and cooled completely, but the topping won’t be as crisp. Wrap the pan tightly in a layer of plastic wrap, then a layer of foil and freeze. Bake directly from the freezer, at 350 degrees F, until it’s warmed throughout.

Can I reheat this dish?

Individual portions of cobbler can be reheated in the microwave or heat up larger portions in the oven at a low temperature.

Why You Need to Make this Blueberry Cobbler Recipe

With a delicious blend of sweet and tart flavors and a simple preparation process, this old fashioned blueberry cobbler should definitely be on your list of must-try desserts. And with endless ways to enjoy this vintage dessert, it allows you to get creative in the kitchen.

You won’t be disappointed – it’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone wanting seconds.

​More Old Fashioned Dessert Recipes You’ll Love: 

• Ambrosia Salad with Cool Whip
• Crockpot Apple Dump Cake
• Old Fashioned Coca Cola Cake Recipe
• Peach Crumble with Oats
• Old Fashioned Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce