This Classic Southern Peach Cobbler is like a warm hug on a plate! Juicy peaches are baked with a sweet, buttery crust that becomes wonderfully crispy.
There’s nothing like the smell of fresh peaches baking in the oven. I love serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—pure happiness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh peaches are best for flavor and texture. If they’re out of season, canned or frozen peaches work too. Just make sure to reduce the sugar since canned varieties may already be sweetened.
Lemon Juice: This adds brightness to the peaches. You can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but fresh lemons always give the best flavor.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is perfect for sweetness. For a healthier option, use coconut sugar or honey, but keep in mind that it might change the texture a bit.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for baking. If you need a dairy-free option, melted coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute can work well.
Milk: Whole milk adds richness, but almond milk or oat milk can be great alternatives for a dairy-free version.
How Do You Get the Perfect Cobbler Texture?
The key to a great cobbler lies in how you prepare the batter and peach filling. Here are some essential tips to achieve that perfect texture:
- Allow the peaches to sit with lemon juice and sugar. This step creates a syrup that enhances flavor and moisture.
- Do not stir the peaches into the batter. Spoon them on top instead. This will allow the batter to rise around the peaches during baking, creating that classic cobbler texture.
- Use a glass or metal pan, as both work well for even baking. Be sure to grease it well to prevent sticking.
Remember, every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cobbler as it bakes. Enjoy the wonderful aroma as it fills your kitchen!
Classic Southern Peach Cobbler
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peach Filling:
- 8 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (about 8-10 medium peaches)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
For the Cobbler Batter:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious peach cobbler will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then 40-45 minutes to bake in the oven. You’ll have about an hour for it to cool before serving. In total, plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps ensure your cobbler bakes evenly.
2. Prepare the Peaches:
In a large bowl, toss the sliced peaches with lemon juice, 3/4 cup of the sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and cornstarch. This mixture helps to extract the juices from the peaches. Set it aside to let the flavors meld while you make the batter.
3. Make the Cobbler Batter:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and the remaining 3/4 cup sugar. Once mixed, pour in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until you have a smooth batter.
4. Assemble the Cobbler:
Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Using a spoon, evenly drop the peach mixture on top of the batter. Don’t stir it! The batter will rise around the peaches as it bakes, creating a yummy crust.
5. Bake It Up:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Keep an eye on it—you’re looking for a golden brown top and a toothpick inserted into the batter to come out clean.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, allow the cobbler to cool for a few minutes. This not only makes it easier to serve but also lets those juices settle. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if you like!
Enjoy your classic Southern peach cobbler! It’s a delightful treat that’s sure to impress family and friends.
FAQ for Classic Southern Peach Cobbler
Can I Use Canned or Frozen Peaches for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! If using canned peaches, make sure to drain them well and reduce the sugar since they’re usually packed in syrup. If using frozen peaches, thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the cobbler.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make a gluten-free peach cobbler, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients (like baking powder) are also gluten-free.
Can I Make This Cobbler Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peach filling and batter separately a day in advance, then assemble and bake just before serving. Alternatively, you can bake the cobbler ahead of time and reheat it gently in the oven before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover peach cobbler in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for a quick option.
