Southern Peach Cobbler

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Southern Peach Cobbler is the epitome of comfort and nostalgia. The combination of sweet, ripe peaches and a rich, buttery crust creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the peaches is beautifully complemented by a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg (if you choose to use them), and the golden, slightly crispy topping is irresistible. It’s easy to make, and the result is a warm, inviting dessert that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 stick unsalted butter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar, divided
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup milk
• 4 cups peaches, peeled and sliced (about 6-7 medium-sized peaches)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, fresh
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the peaches:
   • In a medium bowl, toss the sliced peaches with 1 cup of the granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Let the peaches sit for about 10-15 minutes to release their juices.
3. Make the batter:
   • In a separate bowl, combine the flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, baking powder, kosher salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using).
   • Add the milk to the dry ingredients and stir until the batter is smooth.
4. Melt the butter:
   • Place the stick of unsalted butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish and melt it in the oven while it preheats (about 5-7 minutes). Once melted, remove the dish from the oven.
5. Assemble the cobbler:
   • Pour the batter over the melted butter in the baking dish. Do not stir—it’s okay if the butter rises to the top.
   • Spoon the peach mixture (with its juices) evenly over the batter. Again, do not stir; the batter will rise around the peaches while baking.
6. Bake the cobbler:
   • Bake the cobbler for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the batter comes out clean. The peaches should be bubbling, and the crust should be firm to the touch.
7. Serve:
   • Allow the cobbler to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings and takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus 45-50 minutes of baking.

Variations

• Different fruits: While peaches are the classic choice, you can easily swap them for other fruits such as berries, apples, or nectarines to make a variation of this cobbler.
• Spices: For a more complex flavor, add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice in addition to or instead of cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Vegan version: Substitute the butter with vegan butter and use a non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk) to make the cobbler vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover cobbler in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for about 30 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches. Just be sure to thaw them and drain off any excess liquid before using them in the recipe.

2. Can I make this cobbler ahead of time?

You can prepare the cobbler ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, but it’s best baked fresh for optimal texture. You can, however, make it the night before and warm it up in the oven before serving.

3. How do I know when the cobbler is done?

The cobbler is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick or knife inserted into the batter comes out clean. The peach filling should be bubbling around the edges.

4. Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, if you use self-rising flour, you can omit the baking powder and salt from the recipe. Self-rising flour already contains leavening agents.

5. Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, brown sugar can be used in place of granulated sugar for a richer flavor. It will also add a slight molasses taste to the cobbler.

6. How can I make the cobbler less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet cobbler, reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the recipe by about ¼ cup or to taste.

7. Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can use any type of milk (like almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk) to make the cobbler dairy-free.

8. What is the best way to serve this cobbler?

Southern Peach Cobbler is delicious on its own, but it’s even better served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

9. Can I freeze this cobbler?

Yes, you can freeze the cobbler before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then bake it directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

10. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger batch. Just use a larger baking dish (a 9×13-inch baking dish should work well) and increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes.

Conclusion

Southern Peach Cobbler is a timeless dessert that brings the flavors of summer into your kitchen. With a buttery, golden crust and sweet, juicy peaches, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. This easy-to-make recipe will become a family favorite, offering the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you enjoy it as a simple treat or pair it with a scoop of ice cream, this cobbler is sure to leave everyone satisfied and coming back for more!

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