Why You’ll Love Lemon Cobbler Recipe

This lemon cobbler is wonderfully simple to make with pantry-friendly ingredients and minimal prep time. The magic happens in the oven, where the batter and lemon filling create their own irresistible layers. It’s a crowd-pleasing dessert that feels both cozy and refreshing at the same time. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a gathering, its vibrant citrus flavor and soft texture make it a memorable treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
8 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup granulated sugar
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 can (about 21 to 22 ounces) lemon pie filling or lemon curd

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the butter in a 9-inch square baking dish and set it in the oven until completely melted. Carefully remove the dish from the oven once the butter has melted.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
Pour in the buttermilk and stir gently until a smooth batter forms. Avoid overmixing.
Pour the batter evenly over the melted butter in the baking dish. Do not stir.
Spoon the lemon pie filling or lemon curd evenly over the batter, again without stirring.
Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set. The center may have a slight jiggle, but it will firm up as it cools.
Allow the cobbler to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the layers settle.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 to 9 portions

Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 45 to 55 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour

Variations
For an extra burst of citrus flavor, add a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to the batter. You can also mix in a handful of fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist. If you prefer a sweeter finish, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar once cooled. For a richer version, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cobbler covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

To reheat, warm single servings in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds until heated through. You can also reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until warmed to your liking.

FAQs

Can I use homemade lemon curd instead of canned filling?

Yes, homemade lemon curd works beautifully and often provides a fresher, more vibrant lemon flavor.

Why don’t I stir the layers together?

The batter and filling create their own layered effect during baking. Stirring would prevent the cobbler from forming its signature texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake it a few hours in advance and reheat gently before serving. It also tastes delicious at room temperature.

What size baking dish works best?

A 9-inch square baking dish is ideal. A similar-sized round dish can also work as long as it holds the batter comfortably.

How do I know when it’s fully baked?

The top should be golden and set, and the edges should be slightly crisp. A small jiggle in the center is normal.

Can I substitute regular milk for buttermilk?

Yes. To make a quick substitute, add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Is this dessert very tart?

It has a pleasant tangy flavor balanced by sweetness. If you prefer it sweeter, you can slightly increase the sugar in the batter.

Can I make it gluten-free?

You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for baking as a substitute for regular flour.

Can I add other fruits?

Yes, berries pair especially well with lemon. Sprinkle them over the batter before baking for added flavor and texture.

Should it be served warm or cold?

It’s best served warm when the texture is soft and saucy, but it can also be enjoyed chilled straight from the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Lemon cobbler is a simple yet impressive dessert that delivers bold citrus flavor with minimal effort. Its tender cake layer and bright lemon filling make it a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Once you try it, this easy, vibrant dessert is sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation.