Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature to cook the topping through and bubble the fruit. Lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Macerate the Strawberries
In your large mixing bowl, combine the hulled and halved strawberries, ⅓ cup sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Gently toss until the strawberries are evenly coated. The sugar and lemon juice will begin to draw out the strawberries’ natural juices, and the cornstarch will help thicken them as they bake. Let this mixture sit while you prepare the topping.

Part 2: Make the Simple Cobbler Batter

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In your medium bowl, whisk together the flour, 1 cup of sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the leavening agent (baking powder) is evenly distributed throughout the dry mix, which is key for a uniformly risen topping.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the milk, melted butter, and the optional teaspoon of vanilla extract. Using a whisk or spatula, gently stir just until the batter is combined and smooth. Do not overmix; a few small lumps are perfectly fine. This easy, pourable batter is the hallmark of a classic drop biscuit cobbler.

Part 3: Assemble and Bake

Step 5: Layer in the Baking Dish
Pour the macerated strawberry mixture, along with all its juices, into your prepared baking dish. Spread it into an even layer.

Step 6: Add the Topping
Slowly pour the cobbler batter evenly over the top of the strawberries. Do not stir. The batter will seem thin, but it will spread out as it bakes, creating a golden, cakey layer over the bubbling fruit.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Carefully place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-55 minutes. The strawberry cobbler is done when the fruit filling is visibly bubbling around the edges and the top is uniformly golden brown and set. A toothpick inserted into the center of the topping should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove the cobbler from the oven and place it on a wire rack. It is crucial to let it cool for at least 20-30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the incredibly hot fruit filling to thicken slightly, making it safer and more enjoyable to eat.

Step 9: Serve Warm
Scoop the warm strawberry cobbler into bowls. For the ultimate experience, top each serving with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, which will melt deliciously into the warm fruit and tender topping.