This Southern Peach Cobbler is a warm and comforting dessert that combines sweet peaches with a buttery, flaky crust. It’s like a hug in a dish that screams summer!
I love to serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Who can resist that melty goodness? Just make sure to have some extra napkins handy—things can get deliciously messy! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh peaches are ideal for a juicy and flavorful cobbler, but canned peaches work in a pinch. If using canned, make sure they are well-drained to avoid excess moisture. For those who prefer, you can try using other fruits like nectarines or even berries for a twist!
Granulated Sugar: This recipe calls for 1 cup of sugar, but you can adjust to taste. Consider using brown sugar for a deeper flavor or coconut sugar if you want a healthier option. Just remember that these alternatives may slightly alter the sweetness and moisture.
Milk: Whole milk provides richness, but feel free to substitute almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version. If you’re looking to cut calories without losing creaminess, low-fat milk is also an option.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over salt levels. You can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative. If you do use salted butter, consider reducing the added salt slightly to balance the flavors.
How Do You Ensure Your Batter Is Just Right?
The key to a fluffy cobbler is not over-mixing your batter. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just moistened; it’s okay if there are lumps. This ensures a light texture. Over-mixing develops gluten, which can make the cobbler dense and tough.
- Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in one bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk milk, melted butter, and vanilla until just combined.
- Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry until blended. Lumps are okay!
Following this tip will help you achieve that soft, cake-like crust that is perfect for soaking up the delicious peach juices.
How to Make Southern Peach Cobbler
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peach Filling:
- 6 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (or 4 cups canned peaches, drained)
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Serving:
- Ground cinnamon (for garnish)
- Ice cream (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Southern Peach Cobbler takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 40-45 minutes to bake, making it a perfect dish to whip up for a family gathering or a cozy evening at home. Plus, it will be ready to serve in under 1 hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your cobbler bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.
2. Prepare the Peach Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced peaches, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Toss everything together to coat the peaches evenly. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes so they can soak up the sugars and juices, enhancing their flavor.
3. Make the Batter:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract together until well combined. Then, pour this milk mixture into the flour mixture. Stir gently until just combined; it’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy—never over-mix!
4. Combine and Pour:
Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or an oven-safe skillet. Spread it evenly across the bottom. Now, spoon the peaches and their juices over the batter evenly for a sweet, fruity layer on top.
5. Bake and Cool:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Keep an eye on it; it’s done when the batter is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly—this helps with serving.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the cobbler warm. Sprinkle a little ground cinnamon on top for extra flavor, and if you’re feeling indulgent, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Enjoy your delightful Southern Peach Cobbler!
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen peaches, make sure they are fully thawed and drained of excess moisture to avoid making your cobbler too watery. Simply allow them to sit at room temperature or microwave them on a low setting until thawed before using.
What Can I Substitute for Whole Milk?
You can use a variety of substitutes for whole milk! Options include almond milk, soy milk, or any other non-dairy milk. If using a dairy alternative, opt for unsweetened versions for the best flavor. You can also mix half water and half heavy cream for a richer taste, if desired.
How Do I Store Leftover Peach Cobbler?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick treat!
Can I Add Spices Other Than Cinnamon?
Sure! Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg, allspice, or even a bit of ginger for an extra flavor kick. Adjust the amount based on your taste preferences, but start with a small pinch and add more if you like!
