Easy Christmas Cranberry Cobbler Recipe: Your Festive Holiday Dessert & Breakfast

Experience the delightful taste of the holidays with this Christmas Cranberry Cobbler. It’s an exceptionally versatile dessert, perfect for Christmas Eve, and tastes even better as a leftover treat on Christmas morning. The star of this dish, sugared cranberries, provides a wonderful balance of sweet and tart flavors, complemented by the delightful texture of crystalized sugar that forms during baking.

About This Festive Cranberry Cobbler

Who’s ready for a warm, crumbly, and utterly delicious cranberry treat? If you’re anything like me, the answer is a resounding “Yes!” as the holiday season approaches. This Christmas Cranberry Cobbler isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of comfort, simplicity, and festive cheer, perfect for any holiday gathering or a cozy morning in.

I am absolutely thrilled for the holidays, and this easy cranberry cobbler has quickly become a standout. It’s truly a “lazy baker’s” guide to happiness, especially when life gets busy. For instance, juggling holiday preparations alongside catering a wedding meant elaborate Christmas cake plans had to be shelved. That’s where this simple, yet incredibly satisfying, cobbler came into its own. It’s the perfect solution when you crave homemade goodness without the stress.

Let’s be honest, sometimes our grand baking ambitions get sidelined by reality. While I adore the idea of crafting a multi-layered, show-stopping Christmas cake, I’ve learned to embrace my limitations. And that’s perfectly okay! Accepting that I’m not a master cake artist frees me up to create other wonderful things, like this rustic and charming cobbler. It’s about finding joy in simplicity and delivering fantastic flavors.

Imagine this: waking up on Christmas morning, still in your PJs, with the aroma of this cobbler filling the air. Paired with mimosas, opening presents, engaging in card games, and enjoying endless puppy snuggles (or as many as your furry friend will allow!). It’s about creating those cherished holiday memories, perhaps even shouting “SANTA!” at the top of your lungs as gifts miraculously appear under the tree. This cobbler fits right into that magical picture, making those moments even sweeter.

Key Ingredients for Your Cranberry Cobbler

Crafting the perfect Christmas Cranberry Cobbler begins with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why each component is crucial for achieving that irresistible flavor and texture:

• Cranberries: For the best and most vibrant flavor, I highly recommend using fresh cranberries. Their natural tartness is essential for balancing the sweetness of the cobbler, creating a truly dynamic taste. If fresh cranberries are not available, frozen cranberries are a suitable alternative. However, it’s crucial to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before incorporating them into the recipe. This prevents the cobbler from becoming watery and ensures the correct batter consistency.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar is the primary sweetener in this recipe, providing the perfect level of sweetness and contributing to the crystalized texture on top. For a slightly different flavor profile with subtle caramel notes, you can also use light brown sugar.
• All-Purpose Flour: This forms the structural base of your cobbler batter, giving it a tender yet firm crumb. All-purpose flour is versatile and widely available. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute can be used successfully.
• Baking Powder: As the main leavening agent, baking powder is vital for giving the cobbler its characteristic lift and soft, airy texture. Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal results.
• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds a warm, inviting spice that perfectly complements the cranberries and evokes the festive spirit of Christmas. Feel free to use your favorite brand of ground cinnamon to enhance the aroma and taste.
• Salt: A touch of kosher salt (finely ground) is essential for enhancing all the other flavors in the cobbler, balancing the sweetness, and bringing out the best in the cranberries. Avoid coarse salt, as it may not dissolve properly and can result in pockets of intense saltiness.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is specified to allow for precise control over the salt content in the recipe. It adds richness and moisture to the cobbler. If you opt to use salted butter, remember to omit the additional salt listed for the cobbler batter to prevent it from becoming too salty.
• Milk: Whole milk is recommended for its richness, which contributes to a tender and moist crumb. If whole milk isn’t on hand, 2% milk can also be used effectively without significantly altering the outcome.
• Large Eggs: Eggs act as a binder, helping to hold the cobbler together, and also add moisture and richness. Using large eggs ensures the right balance of ingredients for the batter.
• Vanilla Extract: For the most exquisite flavor, always use a high-quality vanilla extract. My personal favorite is Nielsen Massey’s Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract, which imparts a deep, complex vanilla note that elevates any baked good.

Essential Tools for Baking Success

Having the right tools can make all the difference in your baking experience, ensuring smooth preparation and perfect results. For this Christmas Cranberry Cobbler, a few key pieces of equipment will be particularly useful:

• Cast Iron Skillet: I baked my cobbler in a Lodge cast iron skillet, and the results were absolutely perfect. A cast iron skillet distributes heat incredibly evenly, which helps the cobbler bake uniformly and develop a beautifully golden, slightly crisp crust. It also transitions beautifully from oven to table, adding a rustic charm to your presentation. You don’t necessarily need a traditional baking dish for this recipe if you have a good cast iron skillet!
• Metal Mixing Bowls: If you don’t already own a good set of metal mixing bowls, I highly recommend investing in them. They are incredibly versatile, lightweight, and easy to clean, making them a staple for everyday cooking and baking. A set with various sizes will come in handy for separating dry and wet ingredients and combining them efficiently.
• Wooden Spoon or Whisk: Another everyday essential for my kitchen is a reliable wooden spoon or a sturdy whisk. A wooden spoon is great for mixing batter without scratching your bowls, and a whisk ensures dry ingredients are thoroughly combined and wet ingredients are well emulsified.

How to Make This Easy Christmas Cranberry Cobbler

Get ready to whip up this incredibly simple yet utterly delicious Christmas Cranberry Cobbler. Follow these straightforward steps to create a festive treat that will impress everyone:

Prepare the Cranberries

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350˚F (175˚C). While the oven heats, generously butter a 12-inch cast iron skillet or a similar 10-inch diameter (or 1.5-quart) baking dish. Greasing the pan well ensures the cobbler won’t stick and will release easily.
2. In a small bowl, gently toss the fresh cranberries with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar until they are lightly coated. The sugar will cling to the berries, helping them to caramelize slightly and develop a beautiful texture as they bake. Set this bowl aside for a moment.

Mix the Cobbler Batter

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Use a whisk to thoroughly blend them together, ensuring an even distribution of the leavening agent and spices. This step is crucial for a consistent texture in your cobbler.
4. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: melted unsalted butter, whole milk, the remaining 1 cup + 2 Tbsp sugar, large eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter; a few small lumps are fine. Overmixing can lead to a tough cobbler.
6. Carefully scrape the prepared cobbler batter into your generously buttered cast iron skillet (or baking dish). Spread the batter evenly across the bottom.
7. Now, evenly scatter the sugar-coated cranberries over the top of the batter. Don’t worry if they sink a little; they’ll create beautiful pockets of tartness throughout the cobbler as it bakes.

Bake to Golden Perfection

8. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are beautifully golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center (avoiding a cranberry) comes out clean. The top will also look set and slightly puffed.
9. Once baked, remove the cobbler from the oven. It can be served warm, straight out of the skillet, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Alternatively, it is surprisingly delicious and often even better when allowed to cool to room temperature before serving.

Pro Tips for a Perfect Cranberry Cobbler

Achieving a truly exceptional Christmas Cranberry Cobbler is easy with a few insider tips:

• Serve at Room Temperature for Optimal Flavor: While it’s incredibly tempting to dig into this cobbler the moment it emerges from the oven, still warm and fragrant, I highly recommend allowing it to cool to room temperature. This brief wait allows the flavors to meld and deepen, and the texture to set beautifully. The result is an absolutely divine cobbler that’s less fragile and even more enjoyable. This is precisely why it’s perfect to bake on Christmas Eve and enjoy as a delightful breakfast treat the following morning!
• Opt for Fresh Cranberries When Possible: Fresh cranberries offer a superior burst of tartness and a firmer texture that holds up well during baking. Their natural acidity provides a wonderful contrast to the sweet cobbler batter. If fresh cranberries are out of season or unavailable, frozen cranberries are a good substitute, but always remember to thaw and thoroughly drain them first to prevent excess moisture from affecting your cobbler’s consistency.
• Consider a Cranberry-Orange Twist: If you adore the classic pairing of cranberry and orange, it’s incredibly easy to infuse that flavor into this cobbler. Simply add 1-2 teaspoons of freshly grated orange zest to your cobbler batter along with the wet ingredients. The citrusy aroma and subtle tang will beautifully complement the cranberries, adding another layer of festive flavor.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix only until they are just incorporated. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour too much, which can lead to a tough and chewy cobbler instead of a tender and soft one. A few small lumps in the batter are perfectly acceptable.
• Check for Doneness with a Toothpick: To ensure your cobbler is fully baked through, insert a toothpick into the center (being careful to avoid a cranberry). If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached, your cobbler is ready. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes.
• Evenly Distribute Cranberries: Take a moment to spread the sugared cranberries evenly over the top of the batter. This ensures that every slice of cobbler will have a balanced distribution of those sweet-tart gems.

More tasty Christmas baking recipes to try: Chai Snickerdoodle Cookies | Gingerbread Christmas Crack Candy | Christmas Shortbread Cookies | Panettone Bread Pudding

Do You Need to Cook Cranberries Before Baking?

No, you do not need to cook fresh cranberries before baking them in this cobbler recipe. Fresh cranberries are wonderfully resilient and will cook perfectly right along with the cobbler batter. As the cobbler bakes, the heat of the oven will cause the cranberries to soften, release their juices, and develop a delightful burst of flavor and a slightly jammy texture, all while maintaining their natural tartness. This eliminates an extra prep step and ensures that the cranberries remain plump and flavorful, making them absolutely delicious in this simple dessert.

Should You Thaw Frozen Cranberries Before Baking?

Yes, if you are using frozen cranberries, it’s essential to thaw them first before incorporating them into your cobbler batter. Frozen cranberries tend to release a significant amount of liquid as they thaw and cook. If added directly from frozen, this extra moisture can introduce too much liquid into your cobbler, potentially making the batter soggy or preventing it from setting properly. Therefore, always thaw your frozen cranberries in a colander and drain any excess liquid thoroughly before tossing them with sugar and adding them to the recipe. This step ensures your cobbler maintains its ideal texture and consistency.

Need more holiday recipe inspiration? Check out my holiday recipes page!

What to Serve With Your Christmas Cranberry Cobbler

This Christmas Cranberry Cobbler is so flavorful and satisfying on its own, it doesn’t need much to shine. However, a few thoughtful pairings can elevate the experience, whether you’re serving it as a dessert or a festive breakfast:

• For Dessert:
  • À la Mode: A classic and highly recommended option! Serve the cobbler warm with a generous scoop of high-quality vanilla ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream melting into the warm, fruity cobbler is simply irresistible.
  • Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a luxurious touch and a delicate richness that complements the tart cranberries beautifully. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top can also enhance the presentation.
  • Hot Beverages: A freshly brewed cup of coffee or a rich espresso is an ideal accompaniment, especially during the cool November and December evenings when you’re savoring the holiday flavors. For a caffeine-free option, a warm cup of herbal tea also works wonderfully.
  • Festive Cookie Platter: If you’re hosting a larger gathering, consider serving the cobbler alongside a tray of other holiday cookies. Classic snowball cookies, chewy cranberry white chocolate oatmeal cookies, or delightful mini chocolate chip cookies would create a diverse and appealing dessert spread.
• For Breakfast/Brunch:
  • Mimosas or Champagne: For a truly celebratory Christmas morning breakfast, a chilled glass of champagne or a festive mimosa (perhaps with a splash of cranberry juice!) is a perfect pairing. It adds a touch of sparkle to the holiday season.
  • Coffee or Tea: A simple, comforting cup of coffee or your favorite tea is always a great choice to accompany a sweet breakfast cobbler.
  • Savory Sides: To balance the sweetness, consider serving your cobbler alongside some savory breakfast items like crispy bacon, breakfast sausage, or a fluffy omelet.
  • Holiday Cocktails: If you’re looking for a special drink to pair with this for either dessert or brunch, a festive cranberry spice sparkler makes an ideal, holiday-themed complement.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Ensuring your Christmas Cranberry Cobbler stays fresh and delicious is simple with these storage and reheating tips:

• Storage: To keep your cobbler fresh, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Once cool, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Storing it in the refrigerator will help it last longer.
• Reheating:
  • Microwave: For a quick and easy reheat, place a slice of cobbler on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 15 to 30 seconds, or until it’s warmed through to your liking. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the cobbler dry.
  • Oven/Toaster Oven: If you prefer a crispier topping, you can reheat individual slices or the entire cobbler in a preheated oven (around 300°F/150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed and the top is slightly refreshed.
  • Room Temperature: Often, this cobbler is just as delightful, if not more so, when allowed to come to room temperature naturally before eating. This is particularly true for Christmas morning leftovers!

Finally, if you decide to make this festive Christmas Cranberry Cobbler, please don’t hesitate to give this recipe a rating or leave a comment! I genuinely love hearing about your experiences and always make time to respond to every single comment. Feel free to drop any questions you might have below as well!

Oh, and be sure to tag me on Instagram or Facebook if you share photos of your creation! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes is truly my favorite thing, and I love looking through those photos—it means the world to me!

Christmas Cranberry Cobbler Recipe Card

A sweet and tart skillet dessert that effortlessly doubles as a delightful Christmas breakfast? Absolutely!

Prep Time:

10 minutes
mins

Cook Time:

30 minutes
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Total Time:

40 minutes
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4.7 from 154 votes

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Equipment Needed

• Cast Iron Skillet (12-inch)
• Mixing Bowls (small, medium, large)
• Long Wooden Spoon or Whisk

Ingredients for the Cobbler

Cranberries

• 1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Cobbler Batter

• 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• 9 Tbsp unsalted butter melted + more for greasing the pan
• 1 cup + 2 Tbsp granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat & Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C). Generously butter a 12-inch cast iron skillet (or a 10-inch diameter, 1 1/2-quart baking dish).
• Prepare Cranberries: In a small bowl, gently toss the fresh cranberries with 1/4 cup granulated sugar until coated. Set aside.*
• Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt.
• Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, whole milk, the remaining 1 cup + 2 Tbsp sugar, large eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Mix Batter & Assemble: Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined (do not overmix). Scrape the batter into the prepared cast iron skillet. Evenly scatter the sugared cranberries over the top of the batter.
• Bake to Perfection: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center (avoiding a cranberry) comes out clean. Serve warm, or cool to room temperature (it’s surprisingly wonderful at room temp!).

Recipe Notes

*If the sugar isn’t sticking well enough to the cranberries, you can add a scant 1/2 tsp to 1 tsp of cold water or simple syrup to slightly wet the berries before tossing.

Category:
Breakfast, Dessert, Holiday