This Classic Southern Peach Cobbler is a warm, sweet treat that’s perfect for any dessert lover! Juicy peaches sit under a fluffy, buttery crust, making it oh-so-comforting.
I’ve never met a person who could say no to a slice, especially when it’s topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser that makes everyone happy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh ripe peaches are a must for the best flavor. If peaches are out of season, try using canned or frozen peaches. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid!
Sugar: This recipe uses granulated sugar, but you can substitute it with brown sugar for a richer flavor. If you’re cutting sugar, honey or maple syrup can work too, just adjust the quantities.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices add warmth. If you’re missing one, you can skip it or use pumpkin spice as a substitute for a unique twist.
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended, but coconut oil or vegan butter can be great alternatives if you’re looking for dairy-free options.
Milk: Whole milk is ideal, yet you can swap it with almond milk, oat milk, or any milk of your choice to cater to dietary needs.
How Do You Get the Batter to Rise Around the Peaches?
The key to a successful cobbler is the layering technique. Pouring the batter first into the baking dish allows it to rise and envelop the peaches during baking. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- After mixing the batter, pour it into a greased dish without stirring.
- Carefully spoon the peach mixture on top of the batter. This way, the batter will work its magic and fluff up around those juicy peaches.
- Avoid stirring at this point; let the oven do the work to create that perfect cobbler texture!
Let your cobbler cool slightly after baking; this helps it set up a little more, making it easier to serve. Enjoy your peach cobbler, and don’t forget the ice cream – it’s the cherry on top!
Classic Southern Peach Cobbler
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peaches:
- 8 fresh ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced (about 6 cups)
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
For the Cobbler Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
- 1 cup milk
For Serving:
- Optional: vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious peach cobbler takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 40 to 45 minutes to bake. You’ll want to let it cool slightly before serving, so plan for about an hour total to have a warm dessert ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your cobbler will bake evenly and beautifully!
2. Prepare the Peaches:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced peaches with 1/2 cup of sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch (if using). Gently toss everything together until the peaches are coated. Set them aside to macerate; this will enhance their flavor!
3. Make the Batter:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, baking powder, and salt. Next, pour in the melted butter and milk, stirring just until the mixture is combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps – don’t overmix!
4. Combine and Layer:
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the batter into it. Now, spoon the peach mixture evenly over the top of the batter. Avoid stirring; the magic happens as it bakes!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it – you’re looking for a golden brown top and a toothpick inserted in the cobbler batter to come out clean.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the cobbler from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it set a bit more. Serve it warm, with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top, if desired!
Enjoy your delicious Classic Southern Peach Cobbler – a true comfort food treat!
FAQ for Classic Southern Peach Cobbler
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mixing with sugar and spices to avoid a soggy cobbler.
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have Cornstarch?
No worries! You can simply skip the cornstarch if you don’t have it. The peaches will release enough juice as they bake. If you want a thicker filling, consider using a tablespoon of flour instead!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cobbler in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual servings.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peach mixture a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. When ready to bake, just mix up the batter and follow the instructions as usual for a fresh cobbler.
