This Classic Southern Peach Cobbler is the perfect sweet treat to enjoy on a warm day. With juicy peaches and a buttery, flaky topping, it’s simply irresistible!
I love serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. It just makes everything better! Trust me, your friends will be asking for seconds! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are key for flavor. If they’re out of season, frozen peaches work well too. Just thaw and drain excess liquid before using. Canned peaches can substitute in a pinch, but they’ll be sweeter, so reduce sugar.
Granulated Sugar: You can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute if you’re looking for a healthier option. Just remember that this may slightly affect the flavor. I love using a mix of white and brown sugar for added depth in taste!
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg really enhance the peach flavor. If you’re not a fan of nutmeg, you can skip it or use a little extra cinnamon. Adding a dash of vanilla extract adds warmth to the cobbler.
All-purpose Flour: If you need a gluten-free version, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. It works pretty well without changing the cobbler’s texture too much!
How Do I Ensure My Peach Cobbler Has a Perfectly Fluffy Batter?
The texture of the batter is crucial for a great cobbler. Mixing it too much can make it tough. Here’s how to nail it:
- Whisk the dry ingredients together before adding the wet ones to ensure even distribution.
- Stir in the milk gently, just until combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps!
- When pouring over the butter, resist the urge to mix everything together. The batter will puff and rise around the peaches as it bakes, giving you that delightful cobbler texture.
Classic Southern Peach Cobbler
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 8 fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced (about 6 cups)
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
For the Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious peach cobbler takes about 20 minutes of preparation time, plus 35-45 minutes of baking. Once baked, allow it to cool slightly before serving. In total, expect about 1 hour for the whole process!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for the cobbler when you’re done preparing it.
2. Prepare the Peach Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Gently toss everything together to evenly coat the peaches. This allows the peaches to macerate and release their delicious juices while you make the batter.
3. Mix the Batter:
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar. Then, gently stir in the milk until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the batter light and fluffy!
4. Assemble in the Baking Dish:
Pour the melted butter into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Next, carefully pour the batter over the melted butter—do not stir. Spoon the peach filling evenly over the batter; again, resist the urge to mix. The magic happens in the oven!
5. Bake the Cobbler:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the batter comes out clean. The cobbler will rise beautifully around the peaches!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, allow the cobbler to cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. Serve warm, and if you fancy, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. Enjoy this classic dessert with family and friends! 🍑
FAQ for Classic Southern Peach Cobbler
Can I Use Canned or Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes! You can use canned peaches (drained) or thawed frozen peaches. Canned peaches will yield a sweeter dessert, so consider reducing the sugar slightly. With frozen peaches, make sure to thaw and drain them beforehand to prevent excess moisture.
How Do I Make a Gluten-Free Version of This Cobbler?
To make this cobbler gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Most blends work great for baking and will help you achieve a similar texture!
Can I Prepare This Cobbler in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peach filling and batter separately ahead of time. Just keep them in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, assemble them in the baking dish and follow the baking instructions. It will be just as delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop a serving in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Enjoy it warm for the best flavor!
