This Easy Southern Peach Cobbler is like a warm hug in dessert form! It’s made with juicy peaches and a sweet, fluffy topping that’s hard to resist.
I always enjoy serving it warm, maybe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Who can say no to peachy goodness? 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are key for that juicy flavor. If peaches aren’t in season, you can use canned peaches (drained) or frozen peaches (thawed) instead. I love the freshness of in-season peaches, but have used frozen in a pinch, and they work just fine!
Sugar: You need granulated sugar for sweetness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use coconut sugar or honey, but keep in mind this may alter the flavor slightly. Often, I cut sugar by a little and let the peaches shine!
Butter: Unsalted is best here, but if you only have salted butter, just reduce any salt in the recipe slightly. I’ve tried using coconut oil for a dairy-free version, and it adds a nice flavor too.
Flour: All-purpose flour gives a light texture, but you can swap it with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if you have dietary restrictions. I find that the gluten-free versions can be just as tasty.
How Do I Get My Cobbler Batter to Cook Evenly?
A common challenge with peach cobbler is ensuring the batter cooks evenly and rises around the peaches. Here’s how to do it right:
- First, pour your melted butter into the baking dish and then gently pour the batter on top. Avoid stirring—the batter will float up as it bakes.
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated before putting the cobbler in; this helps the batter rise properly.
- Don’t fret if the batter seems thin—it will turn into that delicious cake-like texture while baking!
Following these steps will help you achieve that dreamy, golden crust around the sweet peaches. Enjoy your baking!
Easy Southern Peach Cobbler
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peach Filling:
- 8 fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced (about 6 cups)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (for peaches)
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
For the Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for batter)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prepare everything and then 40 to 45 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour for a warm and delicious cobbler that’s perfect for sharing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, get your oven ready by preheating it to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cobbler bakes evenly.
2. Prepare the Peaches:
In a large mixing bowl, take those lovely sliced peaches and mix them with 3/4 cup of sugar and the lemon juice. Gently stir so all the peaches are nicely coated and set this aside to let the sugars draw out the peach juices.
3. Make the Batter:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, 1 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Don’t worry about getting it perfect; just make sure there are no big lumps.
4. Combine with Liquid Ingredients:
Now, add the milk and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. You don’t want to over-mix, so stop when you still see a few lumps.
5. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Pour the melted butter into a 9×13-inch baking dish. This creates a buttery base that will flavor the batter as it bakes. Make sure to spread it evenly!
6. Add the Batter:
Carefully pour the batter over the melted butter. Don’t mix them together! The batter will puff up around the peaches when it bakes.
7. Layer the Peaches:
Now, spoon the peach mixture evenly over the batter. It’s okay if some peaches sink a bit; they’ll float back up while baking.
8. Add Toppings:
If you’re using cinnamon, sprinkle it on top of the peaches along with the 2 tablespoons of sugar. This adds a lovely sweetness and spice!
9. Bake to Perfection:
Put your cobbler in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You want it to be golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted into the cobbler should come out clean. If it’s a bit gooey, give it a few more minutes.
10. Cool & Serve:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, serve warm, and if you like, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top!
Enjoy your classic Southern dessert! Peach cobbler is perfect for any gathering, and it’s sure to impress your friends and family! 🍑
FAQ for Easy Southern Peach Cobbler
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen peaches, make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before incorporating them into the recipe. This will help prevent the cobbler from becoming soggy.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Peach Cobbler?
You can store leftover peach cobbler in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can easily make this cobbler gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This should yield similar results! Just be sure to check that your baking powder is also gluten-free.
What Can I Serve with Peach Cobbler?
Peach cobbler is delightful on its own, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream really takes it to the next level! You might also serve it warm with a side of fresh berries for added flavor.
