Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This is an important first step as it ensures your cobbler bakes evenly and achieves that beautiful golden brown color on top.
In a medium bowl, combine the blueberries, orange juice, and granulated sugar. Gently stir to combine and allow the blueberries to soak in the juices for a few minutes while you prepare the topping.
In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This dry mixture will contribute to the fluffy texture of your cobbler topping.
In another medium bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until pale and fluffy, about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, making your topping light.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. The egg helps bind the ingredients together while adding moisture and richness.
Working in three batches, add one-third of the flour mixture to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. This process ensures that the flour is evenly distributed without overmixing.
Once your batter is ready, drop rounded tablespoons over the blueberry mixture in the baking dish. Aim for a rustic look; it doesn't have to be perfect!
Bake in your preheated oven for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on it; the aroma will be intoxicating!
Once baked, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the cobbler set up a bit more, making it easier to serve.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired. Enjoy the delightful combination of warm cobbler and cold ice cream!
