Peach cobbler is the epitome of comfort food – a classic dessert that’s easy to make and always impresses. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, a family gathering, or simply as a weeknight treat, this dessert never fails to satisfy. The combination of juicy, tender peaches and a soft, buttery crust is nothing short of perfection. This versatile dessert can be made using fresh peaches in summer or canned peaches when they’re not in season, making it an all-year-round favorite. In this recipe, we’ll walk you through the steps to create a mouthwatering peach cobbler that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Peach cobbler has a long-standing history in Southern cuisine, where it has been cherished for generations. It’s known for its rustic, homestyle charm and its ability to bring people together over a warm, sweet treat. But don’t let its down-to-earth nature fool you – when done right, peach cobbler can be an elegant and impressive dessert. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the delicious world of peach cobbler!
Ingredients for Peach Cobbler
Before we get started, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need for this peach cobbler recipe:
For the Peach Filling:
- 5 large peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced (about 4 cups)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Batter:
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup milk
- Ground cinnamon (optional, for sprinkling on top)
Choosing the Right Peaches:
Fresh, ripe peaches work best for this recipe, offering a natural sweetness and juicy texture. If peaches aren’t in season, feel free to use canned or frozen peaches – just make sure to drain the canned peaches well before using them.
For other great baking options, consider trying the Peach Cobbler with Cake Mix recipe on Joseph Recipes for a different take on this classic dessert.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Peach Cobbler
1. Preparing the Peaches:
- Start by adding the sliced peaches, ¾ cup of sugar, and ¼ teaspoon of salt into a medium saucepan. Stir everything together and cook on medium heat for about 5 minutes. This step helps the sugar dissolve and draws out the natural juices of the peaches, creating a flavorful syrup.
- Pro Tip: If you’re using canned peaches, you can skip this cooking step. Simply mix the peaches with sugar and salt in a bowl and set them aside.
2. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the butter into small pieces and add them to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven until the butter is completely melted, then remove it from the oven. The melted butter will create a rich, buttery crust as the cobbler bakes.
3. Making the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, 1 cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Stir to combine the dry ingredients.
- Slowly pour in ¾ cup of milk, stirring gently until the mixture is just combined. Be careful not to over-mix the batter – it should be slightly lumpy to create a light, tender crust.
4. Assembling the Cobbler:
- Pour the batter into the baking dish over the melted butter. Do not stir. The batter will spread out as it bakes, forming a delicious crust around the peaches.
- Spoon the cooked peaches and their syrup evenly over the batter. Again, resist the urge to stir. The batter will rise up around the peaches as it bakes, creating the classic cobbler texture.
- Sprinkle ground cinnamon generously over the top for a warm, spiced flavor.
5. Baking the Cobbler:
- Bake the cobbler in the preheated oven for 38-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the batter comes out clean. The edges should be slightly crisp, while the inside remains soft and fluffy.
- Pro Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the cobbler for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Watch closely to prevent burning.
6. Serving the Peach Cobbler:
- Allow the cobbler to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to scoop.
- Serve warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast between the warm cobbler and the cold ice cream is heavenly!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 315 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 59g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 47g
- Calcium: 85mg
- Iron: 1mg
This peach cobbler is a sweet treat, so enjoy it in moderation! For a lighter version, consider reducing the sugar or using a sugar substitute.
Recipe Variations: Make It Your Own!
1. Classic Peach Cobbler with Biscuit Topping:
For a more traditional Southern-style cobbler, swap the batter for a biscuit topping. Simply drop spoonfuls of biscuit dough over the peaches before baking.
2. Gluten-Free Peach Cobbler:
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. The rest of the recipe remains the same, so you can enjoy a gluten-free version without compromising flavor.
3. Vegan Peach Cobbler:
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter and use a non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk in the batter. The result is a rich, dairy-free cobbler that’s just as delicious!
4. Mixed Fruit Cobbler:
Feeling creative? Add a variety of fruits to your cobbler! Try mixing in berries, apples, or even pears with the peaches for a unique flavor combination.
For more delicious dessert recipes, explore this Mini Cheesecakes recipe to satisfy your sweet tooth with individual-sized treats!
How to Store and Reheat Peach Cobbler
Storing Leftovers:
- Place any leftover cobbler in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4-5 days. The cobbler will keep well, and the flavors will continue to meld, making it just as tasty when reheated.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat in the oven, allow the cobbler to come to room temperature, then place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. Cover with aluminum foil if the top is browning too much.
- For a quicker option, you can also reheat individual servings in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use canned peaches for this cobbler recipe?
A: Absolutely! Canned peaches work wonderfully in this recipe. Simply drain the peaches before adding them to the cobbler, and skip the step where you cook the peaches with sugar.
Q: Can I make this peach cobbler in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the cobbler a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven before serving. This allows you to enjoy a warm, freshly-baked dessert without the last-minute prep.
Q: How do I make my cobbler topping crispier?
A: To achieve a crispier topping, bake the cobbler for a few extra minutes, or broil it for 1-2 minutes at the end. Just be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning.
Conclusion: Why Peach Cobbler is the Perfect Dessert
Peach cobbler is more than just a dessert – it’s a celebration of simple, comforting flavors that bring joy with every bite. The combination of sweet, juicy peaches and a buttery, slightly crispy crust makes it the ultimate treat for any occasion. Plus, its versatility means you can customize it to suit your taste, dietary needs, or the fruits you have on hand. With this easy, foolproof recipe, you’re well on your way to creating a peach cobbler that’s sure to become a family favorite. So go ahead, grab those peaches, and let’s get baking!
For another dessert recipe to explore, try the Scrumptious Frosted Fudgy Brownies that are rich and full of chocolatey goodness.