This Southern Peach Cobbler is a warm, fruity dessert that’s hard to resist! Juicy peaches are baked under a sweet, buttery topping, creating the perfect sweet treat for any occasion.
Every bite feels like a hug from grandma! 🍑 I just love serving it warm with a scoop of ice cream on top. It’s like summer in a bowl—what’s not to adore?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh peaches are ideal for this recipe, providing the best flavor and texture. If fresh ones aren’t available, canned sliced peaches work well; just be sure to drain them properly. You could also use frozen peaches, but they may require a longer cooking time.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetener is essential for balancing the tartness of the peaches. If you’re looking to cut back on sugar, try using a sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit. Keep in mind that sweetness levels may vary, so adjust to your taste!
Cinnamon: A little cinnamon adds warmth and enhances the peach flavor. If you want a different twist, consider using nutmeg or even cardamom for a unique profile.
All-Purpose Flour: This is key to creating that biscuit-like topping. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend; just be sure it contains xanthan gum for texture.
Milk: Regular milk works great, but you can use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version. The flavor will slightly differ but still be delicious.
How Do I Get a Perfectly Layered Cobbler Without Mixing the Toppings?
The secret to a delectable cobbler is in the layering! After preparing the peach mixture, pour your batter into the baking dish first and then gently layer the marinated peaches on top.
- Make sure your batter is spread evenly in the dish!
- When you place the peaches on top, avoid stirring, so the batter can rise around them while baking.
- This technique ensures you get the perfect balance of soft peaches and a fluffy topping—truly the heart of a great peach cobbler!
How to Make Southern Peach Cobbler
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peach Filling:
- 4 cups fresh peaches, sliced (or 2 cans of sliced peaches, drained)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon 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 (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Southern peach cobbler will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 35 to 45 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour of your time to create this warm, comforting dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, your oven will be ready when you are!
2. Prepare the Peach Filling:
In a large bowl, mix the sliced peaches, 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Toss everything together gently until the peaches are nicely coated. Let this sit for about 15 minutes to marinate—this will make the peaches even sweeter!
3. Make the Batter:
While the peaches are marinating, grab another bowl and combine the all-purpose flour, the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients together. Then, gradually whisk in the milk until you have a smooth batter. Finally, fold in the melted butter gently until just combined.
4. Assemble the Cobbler:
Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish or a cast-iron skillet, spreading it out evenly. Next, spoon the marinated peach mixture on top of the batter, distributing it evenly. Don’t stir it! The batter will rise up around the peaches while it bakes, creating a lovely cobbler.
5. Bake the Cobbler:
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the top should turn golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the batter should come out clean.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done baking, remove the cobbler from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and garnish with fresh mint leaves if you’d like. Enjoy this cozy Southern treat!
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen peaches, make sure to thaw them first. Place them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for a quicker option. Drain any excess liquid before marinating them with sugar and spices to avoid a watery cobbler.
What Can I Substitute for Granulated Sugar?
If you prefer a healthier alternative, you can use brown sugar, which adds a nice depth of flavor. Alternatively, try coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, adjusting the amount to taste since some are sweeter than sugar. Remember that the texture and sweetness might change slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Peach Cobbler?
Leftover peach cobbler can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep the topping from getting too soggy, you can store it separately. Simply reheat the cobbler in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes before serving, or microwave it for a quick reheating option.
Can I Make Peach Cobbler Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the peach mixture and the batter in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine them in your baking dish and bake as directed. Note that baking time might be slightly longer if using chilled ingredients.
