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Ultimate Dutch Oven Montmorency Tart Cherry Cobbler: Your Go-To Recipe for Home & Camp

This post is proudly sponsored by the Cherry Marketing Institute. All opinions expressed are my own, reflecting a genuine love for this incredible dessert.

Imagine a dessert that effortlessly combines comfort with a burst of vibrant flavor. Our Dutch Oven Montmorency Tart Cherry Cobbler is exactly that – a truly delightful and surprisingly simple creation, perfect for both cozy evenings at home and adventurous outdoor excursions. This recipe features a tender, buttery cake base, generously studded with luscious Montmorency tart cherry pie filling. A second layer of that irresistible cherry filling is then crowned with a sweet, crumbly, and textural oatmeal topping, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will captivate everyone at your table. Served warm with a scoop of premium vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream, this cobbler promises to be your favorite treat all summer long and beyond.

Whether you’re planning a lively family gathering, a rustic camping trip, or simply craving a comforting dessert, this tart cherry cobbler, adaptable for a traditional Dutch oven or a sturdy cast-iron skillet, is an impeccable choice. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step to master this incredibly easy tart cherry cobbler, providing detailed instructions for baking it in a conventional oven, as well as an exciting method for cooking it over hot coals in a camping Dutch oven.

Looking for the perfect main course to complement this amazing dessert? Explore these 13 Fast Dinners for Busy Nights to make your meal planning effortless!

Why You’ll Love This Montmorency Tart Cherry Cobbler

This isn’t just any cobbler; it’s a celebration of flavor and versatility. Here’s what makes this Montmorency Tart Cherry Cobbler truly special and why it deserves a spot in your recipe collection:

Unforgettable Flavor Profile: The distinct sweet-tartness of Montmorency cherries creates a balanced and incredibly satisfying taste, perfectly complemented by a rich, moist cake base and a buttery, spiced oatmeal crumble. It’s a harmonious blend that’s never overly sweet.
Effortless Preparation: Despite its gourmet taste and impressive appearance, this cobbler is remarkably simple to prepare, requiring minimal hands-on time. The straightforward steps make it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
Versatile Baking Methods: Whether you prefer the controlled convenience of your kitchen oven or the rustic charm and smoky flavor of campfire cooking, this recipe offers clear, detailed instructions for both. It’s perfect for any setting or occasion.
Ideal for Any Gathering: From casual weeknight desserts to impressive potluck contributions, festive holiday spreads, or a comforting treat enjoyed under the stars during a camping trip, this cobbler fits every bill. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that sparks joy.
A Superfruit Delight: Beyond its delicious taste, Montmorency tart cherries are celebrated for their distinctive nutrient profile and numerous health benefits, making this a dessert you can feel good about indulging in.
Seasonal Flavor, Year-Round Enjoyment: While cherries are a summer fruit, the availability of canned Montmorency tart cherry pie filling means you can enjoy this delightful cobbler regardless of the season.

The Magic of Montmorency Tart Cherries: Elevating Your Cobbler

The secret to an truly exceptional cherry cobbler lies in the cherries themselves. For this recipe, U.S.-grown Montmorency Tart Cherries are not just a preference; they’re an essential ingredient that elevates the dessert from merely good to absolutely outstanding. These ruby-red gems are celebrated for their unique flavor, vibrant color, and remarkable versatility in culinary applications, making them a standout choice for baked goods.

What Makes Montmorency Cherries So Special in Baking?

Unique Sweet-Tart Flavor: Unlike overly sweet or bland varieties, Montmorency tart cherries offer a bright, tangy, and intensely flavorful experience that finishes on a perfectly balanced sweet-tart note. This complex profile prevents the dessert from being cloyingly sweet, inviting you to enjoy every bite without overwhelming your palate. This adventurous flavor sets them apart from other fruits.
Vibrant Color Retention: When baked, these cherries maintain their stunning ruby-red hue, adding an appealing visual element to your cobbler without “bleeding” into the surrounding cake, a common issue with some foreign tart cherry varieties like Morello. The beautiful color pops beautifully in your finished dessert.
Superior Texture: They hold their shape beautifully during cooking, providing delightful pockets of juicy, tender fruit throughout the cobbler. This textural contrast is key to a satisfying bite.
Year-Round Availability: Although harvested in the summer at the peak of ripeness, Montmorency tart cherries are quickly processed (dried, frozen, canned, or juiced) to ensure they are available fresh from the farm all year round. This means you can enjoy this delicious cobbler any time you wish, using canned pie filling for convenience.

Health Benefits of Tart Cherries: A Superfruit Powerhouse

Beyond their exquisite taste, Montmorency tart cherries have earned their place in the “superfruit” arena due to their impressive nutritional profile and associated health benefits. The U.S. tart cherry industry has significantly invested in extensive health research, leading to over 110 published journal articles highlighting their many advantages. These benefits are largely attributed to anthocyanins, a type of polyphenol in the flavonoid family, which also gives them their distinctive ruby color and powerful antioxidant properties. Research suggests that Montmorency tart cherries can be beneficial for:

Exercise Recovery: Helping to reduce muscle soreness and inflammation, aiding in faster recovery after intense physical activity, making them popular among athletes.
Sleep Quality: Naturally containing melatonin, they may help regulate sleep cycles and promote better, more restful sleep.
Heart Health: Contributing to cardiovascular wellness through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Arthritis and Gout: Showing promise in reducing inflammation and pain associated with these common conditions.
Gut Health: Supporting a healthy digestive system through their fiber content and beneficial compounds.

While often enjoyed in delicious desserts like this cobbler or Montmorency Tart Cherry Pie Bars, it’s reassuring to know you’re also consuming a fruit with significant nutritional value. For more detailed information on the science behind Montmorency tart cherries and their health benefits, you can visit choosecherries.com.

Sourcing and Identifying U.S.-Grown Montmorency Cherries

When selecting your cherry pie filling, always look for products explicitly labeled as “U.S.-grown Montmorency tart cherry pie filling.” This simple step makes a significant difference. While approximately 75% of the U.S. Montmorency tart cherry crop is cultivated in Michigan, my home state of Utah proudly stands as the second-largest producing state. Choosing U.S.-grown cherries supports hard-working American farmers and ensures you’re getting a high-quality product that hasn’t traveled over 5,000 miles, which can impact freshness and environmental sustainability.

Can You Use Fresh Montmorency Tart Cherries?

If you’re lucky enough to find fresh Montmorency tart cherries during their summer harvest, you absolutely can use them! However, these cherries are typically harvested ripe and processed quickly for canning, freezing, or juicing because their delicate nature means they don’t have a long shelf life for fresh transport and retail sale. If using fresh or frozen cherries, you will need to prepare them into a pie filling by cooking them down with sugar and a thickening agent like cornstarch to achieve the desired consistency for this cobbler. While I’ve had the pleasure of visiting a Montmorency Tart Cherry orchard and even riding on a harvester to see the processing firsthand, for most home bakers, canned Montmorency tart cherry pie filling is the most convenient and consistent option for delicious results year-round.

Essential Ingredients for Your Delectable Cobbler

Crafting this incredible cobbler starts with a few key ingredients, each playing a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of sweetness, tartness, and comforting texture. Quality makes a difference, especially when it comes to your cherry pie filling and butter. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

For the Rich Cobbler Base:

6 tablespoons butter: Unsalted is generally preferred for baking, allowing you to control the salt content precisely, but salted butter can also work. This will be melted to create a luscious base.
1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation for our tender, cake-like cobbler base, providing structure and softness.
1 cup granulated sugar: Perfectly sweetens the batter, balancing the tartness of the cherries.
2 teaspoons baking powder: This leavening agent is crucial for giving the cobbler its delightful lift and airy, fluffy texture.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing the sweetness and enhancing all the other flavors in the cobbler.
3/4 cup milk: Binds the dry ingredients, creating a smooth, pourable batter. Any milk will do, but whole milk adds extra richness.
1 (20-ounce) can U.S.-grown Montmorency tart cherry pie filling: The undisputed star of the show, providing the bright, tangy flavor and juicy fruit segments.

Optional Flavor Boost (Cinnamon-Sugar Sprinkle):

For an extra layer of warmth and sweetness on the first cherry layer, consider these additions:

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a classic, warm, aromatic spice that pairs beautifully with cherries.
2 teaspoons granulated sugar: Provides a subtle boost of sweetness to the initial cherry layer.

For the Irresistible Buttery Oatmeal Crumble Topping:

This topping transforms the cobbler, adding wonderful texture and flavor. It’s highly recommended!

1 (20-ounce) can U.S.-grown Montmorency tart cherry pie filling: Yes, a second can! This ensures an abundance of juicy cherries in every single bite, truly making it a fruit-forward dessert.
1/4 cup butter: Cold, diced butter is best for cutting into the dry ingredients to create that perfect crumbly texture.
1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor to the crumble, complementing the oats and cinnamon.
1/2 cup oats (any kind but instant): Rolled oats or quick oats are ideal, providing fantastic chewiness and a rustic texture to the crumble. Avoid instant oats as they can become too soft.
1/2 cup flour: The essential binding agent for your crumbly topping, ensuring it holds together while baking but remains distinct.
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon: More warm spice for the topping, tying all the flavors together.
Pinch of salt: Crucial for balancing the sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor of the crumble.

While the addition of a second can of cherry pie filling and the rich brown sugar oatmeal crumble are technically optional, I enthusiastically recommend them. They truly transform this recipe from simply good to an absolutely exceptional dessert. That quick extra step is unequivocally worth it for the added depth of flavor, satisfying texture, and sheer abundance of cherries.

Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Perfect Montmorency Tart Cherry Cobbler

Making this Montmorency Tart Cherry Cobbler is surprisingly straightforward and requires only a small amount of hands-on time, making it a perfect dessert for busy days or relaxed gatherings. You can prepare it in a standard Dutch oven, a deep cast-iron skillet, or a camping Dutch oven with legs. We’ll cover both the conventional oven method for home baking and the exciting outdoor cooking method using hot coals for your next adventure.

Conventional Oven Method (for Home Baking)

Preheat Oven & Melt Butter: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the 6 tablespoons of butter directly into your Dutch oven or a deep 12-inch cast-iron skillet. Set the cookware in the preheating oven to melt the butter completely while you prepare the batter. This ensures the butter is perfectly heated and ready, preventing the batter from sinking.
Prepare the Batter: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined. Gradually stir in the 3/4 cup of milk until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cobbler.
Assemble the First Layer: Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven with melted butter from the oven (use oven mitts!). Pour the prepared batter directly over the melted butter. It’s crucial at this stage to resist the urge to stir the batter into the butter. Next, spoon one can of Montmorency tart cherry pie filling evenly over the batter, trying to cover as much surface as possible. Again, do not stir. If you are using the optional sprinkle, mix together the ground cinnamon and 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cherry layer.
Initial Bake: Place the Dutch oven back into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the top of the cobbler appears mostly set and lightly golden around the edges. The center may still be a bit jiggly, which is perfectly normal and desired for this stage before adding the topping.
Add Topping: Carefully remove the partially baked cobbler from the oven. Evenly spoon the second can of Montmorency tart cherry pie filling over the cobbler. Set it aside. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the 1/4 cup butter (cold and diced), brown sugar, oats, 1/2 cup flour, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of salt for the crumble. Use a pastry blender (or your fingertips) to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse bread crumbs. Sprinkle this delightful crumble topping evenly and generously over the cherries.
Finish Baking: Return the entire Dutch oven cobbler to the oven and continue baking for an additional 30-45 minutes. The cobbler is done when the oatmeal crumble topping is beautifully golden brown, the cherry filling is visibly bubbling vigorously around the edges, and the cake base is fully cooked through and no longer jiggly in the center.
Serve Warm: Allow the cobbler to cool for at least 15-30 minutes after removing it from the oven. This crucial resting period allows the cake base to set further, resulting in a more structured and less runny dessert. For an ultimate treat, serve warm with a generous scoop of premium vanilla ice cream or a cloud of homemade whipped cream.

Outdoor Camping Dutch Oven Method (for Campfire Cooking)

Experience the incomparable joy of baking this cobbler under the open sky, infusing it with a hint of smoky campfire flavor! This method uses charcoal briquettes to provide even, radiant heat, effectively replicating an oven environment in the great outdoors.

Prepare Your Coals: Approximately 30 minutes before you plan to start cooking, begin preparing your charcoal briquettes. You’ll need about 25-30 standard-sized coals in total. Light them using a charcoal chimney starter for efficiency, or by piling them on a sheet of heavy-duty foil with a small amount of lighter fluid. Allow them to heat thoroughly until they are covered in a light gray ash, indicating they are hot and ready for use.
Melt Butter: Place the 6 tablespoons of butter in a well-seasoned 12-inch campfire Dutch oven (preferably one with sturdy legs). Set the Dutch oven directly over a small cluster of 5-7 hot coals to melt the butter. Monitor closely to prevent the butter from burning; remove it from the coals once melted.
Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl (you can use a sturdy camping bowl), combine the all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir in the 3/4 cup of milk until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Assemble the First Layer: Remove the Dutch oven with melted butter from the coals. Pour the prepared batter directly over the melted butter. Remember, do not stir the batter into the butter. Spoon one can of Montmorency tart cherry pie filling evenly over the batter. Again, do not stir. Sprinkle ground cinnamon over the top if desired.
Arrange Coals for Baking: Create a stable, level cooking surface by placing about 10-12 hot coals on a fire-safe area (e.g., a metal grate or a cleared patch of dirt). Carefully set the Dutch oven directly on top of these coals. Arrange the remaining 15-20 coals evenly on the lid of the Dutch oven. This specific distribution of heat (more on top, less on bottom) mimics a conventional oven and promotes uniform baking, preventing the bottom from burning while the top cooks.
Bake Initially: Cook for approximately 30-40 minutes. To ensure even cooking and prevent localized hot spots, it’s crucial to rotate the Dutch oven a quarter turn every 10-15 minutes. Simultaneously, rotate the lid in the opposite direction. The cobbler should appear mostly set on top.
Add Topping & Finish Baking: Carefully remove the lid (use heavy-duty gloves or a lid lifter). Spoon the second can of Montmorency tart cherry pie filling over the partially baked cobbler. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients for the crumble topping (1/4 cup butter, brown sugar, oats, 1/2 cup flour, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, pinch of salt). Cut the cold butter into the mixture with a pastry blender or your fingertips until it resembles coarse bread crumbs. Sprinkle this topping generously over the cherries. Replace the lid with the hot coals and continue baking for an additional 30-40 minutes, continuing to rotate occasionally. The cobbler is ready when the crumble is beautifully golden brown, the filling is bubbling invitingly around the edges, and the cake base is thoroughly cooked.
Serve Al Fresco: Allow the cobbler to cool slightly (about 15-20 minutes) before serving. This cooling time helps the cobbler set. Enjoy this rustic dessert with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a truly memorable outdoor dining experience.

Expert Tips for Cobbler Perfection

Achieving a consistently perfect cobbler, whether in your kitchen or at a campsite, is easy with these helpful tips and tricks. These small details can make a big difference in the final taste and texture of your Montmorency Tart Cherry Cobbler:

Prioritize Quality Ingredients: As highlighted, using high-quality, U.S.-grown Montmorency tart cherry pie filling is paramount. Its unique flavor and superior baking qualities truly make a difference in the finished dessert. For butter, use a good quality unsalted butter for better flavor control, though salted butter works fine if that’s what you have on hand. Always check ingredient labels for U.S. origin to ensure authenticity and support local farmers.
Ensure Even Distribution of Cherries: When spooning the cherry pie filling over the batter, take a moment to distribute it as evenly as possible across the entire surface. This ensures that every delightful scoop of cobbler contains a generous burst of fruit, preventing any dry spots and maximizing flavor in each bite.
The Importance of Preheating Your Cookware: Melting the butter in your Dutch oven or cast-iron skillet while the oven preheats (or over coals) is a small but crucial step. This creates a hot, luscious buttery layer at the bottom that helps the cobbler’s base cook evenly, preventing it from becoming soggy and encouraging a beautifully golden, slightly crisp crust.
Mastering Rotation for Even Cooking (Camping Method): When cooking over coals, uneven heat distribution is a common challenge. To combat this effectively, make it a habit to rotate your Dutch oven a quarter turn every 10-15 minutes. Additionally, rotate the lid in the opposite direction. This simple technique minimizes hot spots and ensures your cobbler bakes uniformly without burning in one area while remaining undercooked in another.
Accurately Testing for Doneness: The cobbler is typically done when the topping is beautifully golden brown, the cherry filling is bubbling vigorously around the edges, and the center no longer appears excessively jiggly when gently shaken. Keep in mind that oven temperatures and outdoor cooking conditions can vary, so always use the suggested baking times as a guide and adjust slightly based on your specific equipment and observations. A toothpick inserted into the cake portion should come out clean or with moist crumbs.
Allow for Adequate Cooling Time: While it’s incredibly tempting to dig into a warm cobbler immediately, allowing it to cool for about 15-30 minutes after baking is a crucial step. This resting period allows the cake base to set further, resulting in a more structured and less runny dessert that holds its shape better. It also helps prevent your ice cream or whipped cream from melting too rapidly upon serving.

Creative Substitutions and Delicious Variations

This Montmorency Tart Cherry Cobbler recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to easily adapt it to your preferences, dietary needs, or what you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!

Batter Shortcuts: For an even quicker preparation when time is of the essence, you can substitute the homemade cake batter with a boxed yellow or white cake mix. Simply prepare the cake mix according to its package directions, then pour it over the melted butter as instructed in the recipe. Using a boxed mix can reduce the overall cooking time by approximately 10 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight option.
Dairy-Free Alternatives: To make this cobbler suitable for dairy-free diets, simply substitute regular milk with your preferred plant-based milk alternative, such as almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or cashew milk. For the butter, use a high-quality plant-based butter alternative for both melting at the base and incorporating into the crumble topping. Keep in mind that these substitutions might subtly alter the flavor and texture of the cobbler, but it will still be delicious!
Simplified Topping Option: If you prefer a more traditional, less elaborate cobbler, or are short on ingredients, you can easily skip the second can of cherry pie filling and the oatmeal crumble entirely. After the initial bake, simply sprinkle the cobbler with just the ground cinnamon and granulated sugar mixture (if desired) before returning it to the oven to finish baking until set. This simplified version will typically cook about 15 minutes faster and offers a different, yet equally delicious, texture.
Beyond Vanilla Ice Cream & Whipped Cream: While classic vanilla ice cream is a perfect and highly recommended pairing for its creamy contrast, feel free to experiment with other flavors to elevate your dessert. Almond, cinnamon, salted caramel, or even a cherry swirl ice cream can add exciting dimensions. Alternatively, a dollop of freshly whipped cream, lightly sweetened with a touch of vanilla extract, provides a luxurious and lighter touch.
Nutty Additions: For an extra layer of flavor and crunch, consider adding 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to your oatmeal crumble topping. The toasted nuts complement the cherries and add a delightful textural element.

Serving Suggestions for an Unforgettable Dessert Experience

Serving this Dutch Oven Montmorency Tart Cherry Cobbler is an experience in itself, transforming a simple dessert into a memorable culinary moment. For optimal enjoyment and to truly savor its complex flavors and textures, serve it warm. The delightful contrast between the warm, intensely fruity cobbler and a cold, creamy topping is simply divine and absolutely essential for the full experience.

My personal preference, and a tip for perfection, is to allow the cobbler to cool for about 15 to 30 minutes after removing it from the oven. This crucial resting period serves a few purposes: it allows the internal structure of the cake base to set slightly, giving you a more defined, cake-like texture rather than a gooey mess. It also helps prevent your perfectly cold ice cream from melting into a puddle too quickly, ensuring each bite is a perfect blend of warm and cool. However, if your willpower isn’t strong enough to wait, I completely understand – digging in immediately is a perfectly acceptable (and undeniably delicious) option!

Top each generous serving with a decadent scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream, allowing its creaminess to slowly melt into the warm cherry goodness. For a lighter touch, a fluffy dollop of freshly whipped cream, perhaps lightly sweetened with a touch of vanilla extract, also provides a luxurious and airy contrast. For an elegant finish, consider a light sprinkle of toasted slivered almonds or a vibrant sprig of fresh mint.

Storage and Reheating for Prolonged Enjoyment

Should you be fortunate enough to have leftovers (a rare occurrence with this irresistible cobbler!), proper storage ensures you can extend the enjoyment of this delightful treat. Transfer any remaining cobbler to an airtight container. This helps prevent it from drying out and absorbing other refrigerator odors. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it just as delicious the next day.

To reheat individual portions, simply place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl and warm gently in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. For larger portions or to restore some of that fresh-baked crispness to the crumble, you can cover the entire Dutch oven (if it’s oven-safe) loosely with foil and reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven until warmed through, typically about 15-20 minutes. Avoid overheating to maintain the cobbler’s tender texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dutch Oven Cherry Cobbler

Can I use frozen cherries instead of canned pie filling?

Yes, absolutely! If you opt to use fresh or frozen Montmorency tart cherries instead of canned pie filling, you’ll need to prepare them into a pie filling consistency first. This typically involves simmering the cherries with sugar (to taste, as fresh cherries are quite tart), a little water or juice, and a thickening agent like cornstarch or arrowroot powder until the mixture thickens to a rich, spoonable consistency similar to commercial pie filling. This step is crucial to ensure your cobbler has the right texture and sweetness, as raw cherries will release too much liquid and may not sweeten sufficiently.

What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?

No problem at all! This recipe is quite adaptable. For the conventional oven method, a deep 9×13-inch baking dish or a sturdy, oven-safe cast-iron skillet (10-12 inches in diameter with high sides) will work as excellent substitutes. The key is to use a heavy-duty vessel that can withstand and distribute heat well for even baking. For the campfire method, a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet with a tightly fitting lid can serve as a suitable alternative to a camping Dutch oven. Just be mindful that cooking times might need slight adjustments depending on the size, material, and thickness of your chosen bakeware.

Can I make this cobbler gluten-free?

Yes, you certainly can make this cherry cobbler gluten-free! To do so, simply substitute the all-purpose flour in both the cake batter and the oatmeal crumble topping with a high-quality, all-purpose gluten-free flour blend (ensure it’s a blend suitable for baking). Additionally, it’s important to ensure that your chosen Montmorency tart cherry pie filling is also certified gluten-free, as some brands may use wheat-based thickeners. Always check ingredient labels carefully for hidden gluten.

How do I prevent the cobbler from burning when cooking in a Dutch oven over coals?

The key to preventing burning when using the camping Dutch oven method is diligent heat management and attention. Regularly rotate both the Dutch oven and its lid (a quarter turn every 10-15 minutes, rotating in opposite directions) to distribute heat evenly and mitigate the formation of hot spots. Also, make sure not to use an excessive number of coals; generally, the rule of thumb is approximately 25-30 coals for a 12-inch Dutch oven (divided between top and bottom). Monitor the cooking process by checking for doneness a bit earlier than the suggested cooking time, especially if your coals are particularly hot or if there’s significant wind influencing the heat.

Enjoy this easy and incredibly versatile Dutch Oven Montmorency Tart Cherry Cobbler recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re basking in the comfort of your home kitchen or embracing the charm and adventure of the great outdoors! This dessert is sure to become a beloved staple.

Recipe: Montmorency Tart Cherry Cobbler

A delicious Dutch oven or cast iron skillet cherry cobbler recipe, showcasing U.S.-grown Montmorency tart cherries. This delightful dessert features a tender cake base, generously dotted with vibrant tart cherries, topped with an additional layer of cherries and a sweet, buttery oatmeal crumble. Serve warm with ice cream for the ultimate summer treat, or any time of year!

Course: Dessert | Cuisine: American | Keyword: camping, cherry cobbler, dutch oven, montmorency tart cherries, tart cherry cobbler

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Servings: 6 | Calories: 713kcal | Author: Rachael

Ingredients

For the Cobbler Base:

6 tablespoons butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup milk
1 (20-ounce) can Montmorency tart cherry pie filling

Optional Sprinkle:

1/4 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons granulated sugar

For the Topping:

1 (20-ounce) can Montmorency tart cherry pie filling
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup oats (any kind but instant)
1/2 cup flour
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Conventional Oven Method:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Melt Butter: Place the butter in a Dutch oven or Deep 12-inch cast iron skillet, and melt it in the preheating oven.
Prepare Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk until the batter is smooth.
Assemble Cobbler: Pour the batter over the melted butter in the Dutch oven. Do not stir. Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the batter. Again, do not stir. Mix together ground cinnamon and sugar and sprinkle over the top (if using optional sprinkle).
Bake: Place the Dutch oven in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is mostly set.
Add Topping: Remove from oven, top with second can of Montmorency tart cherry pie filling. Set aside. In a mixing bowl combine remaining topping ingredients, and use a pastry blender to cut the butter in until the mixture resembles coarse bread crumbs. Sprinkle on top.
Finish Baking: Return the whole cobbler to the oven, and bake for an additional 30-45 minutes until cooked through and crumble is browned.
Serve: Let the cobbler cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.

Outdoor Cooking/Coals Method:

Prepare Coals: Start your coals to allow them to get hot and ready. You can use a coal starter and light them, or just pile them up on foil, use a little lighter fluid, and light. You’ll need about 25-30 coals. Plan to do this about 30 minutes before you plan to start cooking, to give the coals a chance to turn gray and be ready for use.
Melt Butter: Place the butter in a well-seasoned 12-inch campfire Dutch oven and let it melt over the coals.
Prepare Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk until the batter is smooth.
Assemble Cobbler: Pour the batter over the melted butter in the Dutch oven. Do not stir. Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the batter. Again, do not stir. Sprinkle ground cinnamon over the top (if desired).
Arrange Coals: Place about 10-12 hot coals on a flat surface and set the Dutch oven on top. Arrange the remaining coals on the lid.
Bake: Cook for about 30-40 minutes, rotating the Dutch oven and the lid occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Add Topping: Remove from oven, top with second can of Montmorency tart cherry pie filling. Then in a large mixing bowl combine all the ingredients for crumble topping, then cut butter into mixture with a pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse bread crumbs. Sprinkle on top. Bake an additional 30-40 minutes. The cobbler is done when the top is golden brown, the filling is bubbly, and the cake is set.
Serve: Allow the cobbler to cool slightly before serving. Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.

Nutrition Information

Our recipe card software calculates these nutrition facts based on averages for the above ingredients. Different brands, and quality of produce/meats may have different nutritional information. Always calculate your own based on the specific products you use in order to achieve accurate macros for this recipe.

Pin this delightful recipe to your Dessert or Camping board on Pinterest and save it for your next sweet craving!