Southern Peach Cobbler is a warm, comforting dessert made with juicy peaches and a soft, buttery topping. It’s like a hug for your taste buds!
When I serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it feels like summer in a bowl. Seriously, who can resist that sweet peach goodness? 🍑
Making this cobbler is a breeze! Just mix, bake, and enjoy. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in—your friends will ask for seconds, trust me!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh peaches: Fresh peaches are ideal for flavor! If they’re out of season, use 2 cans of peaches (just drain them). For a twist, try using frozen peaches, but you’ll want to thaw and drain them first.
Sugar: The recipe uses sugar to sweeten the peaches and batter. If you prefer a sugar alternative, consider using honey or maple syrup. Just adjust the quantity a bit since these can be sweeter than sugar.
Butter: I recommend unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness. If dairy-free, use a plant-based butter or coconut oil, which can add a unique flavor!
Milk: Whole milk works best, but any milk alternative like almond or oat milk will work as well. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to balance out the sweetness.
How Do I Properly Prepare the Peaches?
Prepping the peaches is crucial for good texture and flavor. Start by washing and slicing them carefully. If using fresh peaches, removing the skins can enhance the texture. Blanching them briefly in boiling water makes peeling easier.
- After slicing, toss them with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. This step draws out the juices and enhances their flavor.
- Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. It creates a delicious syrup that mixes in with the batter when baking.
Why Should I Be Gentle When Mixing the Batter?
When combining the batter ingredients, be careful not to over-mix. Mixing too much can make the cobbler tough instead of light and fluffy. A few lumps are okay; they will bake out!
- Mix until just combined and no dry flour remains. This will ensure a soft, tender texture in the final cobbler.
- Spread the batter evenly in the baking dish; the peaches will settle naturally during baking.
How to Make Southern Peach Cobbler
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peach Filling:
- 4 cups fresh peaches, sliced (or 2 cans of peaches, drained)
- 1 cup sugar, divided
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Southern Peach Cobbler takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 40-45 minutes to bake. Just let it cool a bit before serving for the best taste!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your cobbler to bake perfectly.
2. Prepare the Peach Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced peaches with 1/2 cup of sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Toss everything gently until the peaches are well coated. Set this mixture aside for about 10-15 minutes so the flavors can get juicy and delicious.
3. Make the Batter:
In another mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, baking powder, and salt. This will form the dry ingredients. Next, add in the milk and melted butter. Stir gently until it’s just combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps—don’t over-mix!
4. Assemble the Cobbler:
Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Now, carefully spoon the peach mixture over the top of the batter, making sure to include all the yummy juices. DO NOT stir this together; the peaches will sink as it bakes, creating a lovely layered effect.
5. Bake and Enjoy:
Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is a beautiful golden brown and bubbly. Once done, let it cool slightly before you serve it. For an extra treat, top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’d like!
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them first and drain off any excess liquid before mixing with sugar and spices. This will help prevent a watery cobbler.
What Can I Substitute for All-Purpose Flour?
If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly if your blend absorbs more moisture.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave for a few seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the peach mixture and the batter separately up to a day in advance. Keep them covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine them in the baking dish and follow the baking instructions. This makes it a great option for gatherings!
