Pit the cherries (see tips above). Stir together the cherries with ½ cup granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon zest, lemon juice, and cinnamon in a 9 x 9″ or 7 x 11″ medium baking dish.
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ¾ cup sugar, baking powder and kosher salt. Stir in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla and mix until a smooth batter forms. Let the batter stand for 1 minute to thicken.
Pour the batter over the cherry filling, smoothing it to the edges. (If desired, you can sprinkle 2 teaspoons additional granulated sugar on the top.)
Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, until golden brown and set. Cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. Scoop into individual servings and serve with vanilla ice cream or homemade whipped cream. Stores up to 3 days refrigerated; reheat in a 350°F oven until room temperature or warm before serving.