Nibbling on Cheerwine Cherry Cobbler

Charlotte, United States

End your feast on a sweet note with a southern dessert twist. This cherry cobbler is zazzed up with an infusion of Cheerwine—a beloved NC cherry soda. It's like a bubbly bear hug for your taste buds!

Who Should Try This Dish?

This dish is perfect for those who enjoy sweet dessert experiences and unique flavor combinations. It's especially suitable for fans of traditional southern desserts, adventure seekers in the culinary world, and those who love cherries.

Flavor Profile

Expect a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors from the cherries, enlivened by the unique cherry soda tang of Cheerwine. The cobbler topping contributes a buttery richness, offering a pleasant contrast in texture that is both soft and slightly crispy.

Things to Eat with It

This dessert pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which balances the sweet tartness of the cobbler. It can also be served alongside a hot cup of coffee or sweet tea, enhancing the southern experience.

What's in It?

  1. Cherries: Fresh or canned, they provide the primary fruit flavor and natural sweetness.
  2. Cheerwine: A unique cherry soda that adds a bubbly sweetness and depth to the cobbler.
  3. Sugar: Sweetens the filling and the topping, balancing the tartness of the cherries.
  4. Flour: Used for making the cobbler topping, providing structure and texture.
  5. Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the topping, creating a golden crust.
  6. Baking Powder: Helps the topping rise, giving it a light and fluffy texture.
  7. Salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.

How It's Made

The preparation begins with preparing the cherry filling by mixing cherries with Cheerwine and sugar in a saucepan. While this simmers, a simple cobbler dough is made by combining flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and butter until crumbly. The cherry mixture is then poured into a baking dish, topped with dollops of the dough, and baked until golden and bubbly.

Interesting Info about the Challenge

This food challenge is particularly intriguing as it highlights Cheerwine, a beloved local beverage, transforming a classic dessert into a uniquely southern experience. While cheerwine is well-known, combining it in a cobbler brings a burst of flavor that showcases the creativity of southern cooking. Engaging in this challenge not only allows you to taste a delicious dish but also connects you to the heart of Charlotte's culinary scene and traditions.

Regional Variations

Peach Cobbler with Cheerwine

In some regions, peach cobbler infused with Cheerwine has gained popularity, taking advantage of local peach harvests and creating a delightful, sweet twist on the traditional recipe.

Mixed Berry Cobbler

Another variation uses a blend of berries, often incorporating Cheerwine for a deeper fruit flavor and color, appealing to those who enjoy mixed desserts.

Local Traditions or Rituals Around the Dish

Nibbling on Cheerwine Cherry Cobbler is not just a dessert; it is a celebration of southern culture and hospitality. Often enjoyed at family gatherings, picnics, or local fairs, this dessert has a significant place in the social fabric of the community. Chefs and home bakers alike integrate Cheerwine into various dishes, showcasing local ingredients and traditions.

History of the Dish

Cobbler has roots in British desserts, evolving in the southern United States amid the culinary melting pot that featured fruits available locally. The use of Cheerwine, a cherry-flavored soft drink from North Carolina, adds a regional twist to the classic cobbler, reflecting the local culture of incorporating soft drinks into recipes for added flavor. Cheerwine was created in 1917, and its unique taste became an iconic part of North Carolina cuisine, inspiring different culinary innovations, including the cobbler.

Interesting Facts About It

The Iconic Beverage Inspired Dessert

Cheerwine, upon which this cobbler is based, is an iconic cherry soda in North Carolina since the 1910s, known for its distinctive taste.

A Southern Staple

Cobbler itself is a traditional southern dessert, commonly made with fruits like peaches or blackberries, showcasing the rich agricultural yields in the region.

Perfect in Any Season

While cherries are often in season in the summer, using canned cherries allows this dish to be enjoyed year-round, making it a versatile dessert choice.

Cheerwine Festivals

In North Carolina, the Cheerwine Festival celebrates the drink with various events, food tastings, and activities that promote local culture and community.