This Southern Peach Cobbler is a warm, comforting dessert that features sweet, juicy peaches and a buttery, biscuit-like topping. It’s perfect for any gathering!
You can serve it hot with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and trust me, it’s hard to resist! I always sneak a bit for breakfast the next day – don’t judge! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches bring a sweet and juicy flavor. If they’re out of season, you can use canned peaches. Just make sure to drain them well to avoid excess syrup in your cobbler!
Sugar: Granulated sugar is standard here. If you want to cut back on sugar, consider using a sugar substitute like Stevia, or you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Cinnamon: This spice adds warmth. For a twist, try nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a different flavor profile.
Whole Milk: Whole milk provides rich creaminess, but you can substitute with any milk you prefer, including almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the salt level. If you need to keep it dairy-free, use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Peaches?
Letting the sliced peaches sit with sugar and lemon juice is key. This helps to dissolve the sugar and stews the peaches in their juices, enhancing their natural sweetness. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix sliced peaches with ½ cup sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
- Let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This process helps bring out more flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Mix the Batter?
When making the batter, be gentle! Overmixing can make it tough. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Whisk dry ingredients together first.
- Add the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. A few lumps are okay!
- This keeps the cobbler light and fluffy. Don’t worry about perfection!
How to Make Southern Peach Cobbler?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peach Filling:
- 4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (or 2 cans of sliced peaches)
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Serving (Optional):
- Ice cream
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Southern Peach Cobbler takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 40-45 minutes to bake, making a total of about 1 hour. It’s a cinch to whip up and is sure to impress everyone at your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peaches:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches, ½ cup of sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice. Stir everything together well, and then let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes so the peaches can release their delicious juices.
2. Make the Batter:
While the peaches are resting, grab another bowl to make the batter. Whisk together the flour, the remaining ½ cup of sugar, baking powder, and salt. Then add in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix everything gently until just combined—don’t overmix, as we want our cobbler to be light and fluffy!
3. Assemble and Bake:
Take a large baking dish or a cast iron skillet and pour the batter evenly across the bottom. Next, spoon the peach mixture (with all its juices) right over the top of the batter. This part is key—don’t stir it! Now, pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. It’s done when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick stuck in the center comes out clean.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s baked, let your cobbler cool slightly. Serve it warm, and don’t forget to top each serving with a scoop of ice cream and some fresh mint leaves for that extra touch if you’d like. Enjoy your homemade Southern Peach Cobbler!
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mixing them with sugar and cinnamon. This will help prevent the cobbler from becoming too watery.
How Do I Adjust the Recipe for a Smaller Baking Dish?
If you’re using a smaller baking dish, you can halve the recipe. Just use 2 cups of peaches and adjust the sugar accordingly. Keep an eye on the baking time, as it may be slightly less, around 30 to 35 minutes.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Cobbler?
Leftover peach cobbler can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a low oven (around 350°F) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave it for a quick reheat.
Can I Make This Cobber Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for better texture. The rest of the ingredients remain the same, and you’ll end up with a delicious gluten-free dessert!
