Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cobbler is incredibly simple to prepare, requiring only basic pantry ingredients. The bright, tangy lemon flavor balances beautifully with the sweet, buttery crust. Whether you’re making it for a gathering or a cozy night in, this cobbler is a foolproof dessert that always impresses.
Ingredients
- ½ cup (1 stick) butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract
- 1 (21-ounce) can lemon pie filling
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F.
- Melt the Butter: Place the butter in a 9×9-inch baking dish and let it melt in the oven for 3-4 minutes. Remove once fully melted.
- Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Add the buttermilk, vanilla extract, and lemon extract, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
- Assemble the Cobbler: Pour the batter over the melted butter in the baking dish. Do not stir. Spoon the lemon pie filling over the batter, ensuring even distribution.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cobbler cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 45-55 minutes
- Total time: 55-65 minutes
Variations
- Berry Lemon Cobbler: Add fresh or frozen berries like blueberries or raspberries to the lemon filling.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds over the top before baking.
- Coconut Twist: Mix shredded coconut into the batter or sprinkle it on top.
- Spiced Lemon Cobbler: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for extra warmth.
- Citrus Medley: Use a mix of lemon, lime, and orange extracts for a more complex citrus flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a 300°F oven for a few minutes.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh lemons instead of lemon pie filling?
Yes! Prepare a homemade lemon filling using lemon juice, sugar, and cornstarch.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
Mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the cobbler before baking. Bake as directed when ready.
Can I use a different baking dish size?
A larger dish will result in a thinner cobbler, while a smaller dish may require extra baking time.
Should I stir the batter after adding the lemon filling?
No, allowing the batter and filling to layer naturally creates the “magic” cobbler effect.
How do I know when it’s done?
The edges should be golden brown, and the center should be set.
Can I make individual servings?
Yes, bake in ramekins for personal-sized cobblers.
Does this need to be refrigerated?
While it’s fine at room temperature for a day, refrigeration is best for longer storage.
What’s the best topping for this cobbler?
Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar enhance its flavor.
Conclusion
Magic Lemon Cobbler is an easy yet impressive dessert with bright citrus flavors and a rich, buttery crust. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s a delicious treat that’s sure to be a favorite in your home. Enjoy this simple, crowd-pleasing dessert any time you crave something sweet and tangy!
