This Easy Southern Peach Cobbler is a sweet, warm dessert made with fresh, juicy peaches and a soft, buttery topping. Perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy night in!
Every bite feels like a hug from Grandma’s kitchen! I love serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top—such a treat after dinner! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Peaches: Use ripe peaches for the best flavor. If fresh peaches aren’t available, you can substitute with canned or frozen peaches. Just make sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid in your cobbler.
Sugar: This recipe uses sugar for sweetness. If you want a healthier option, consider using honey or coconut sugar. Adjust the amount to your taste, especially if your peaches are very sweet.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based butter or coconut oil in the same amount. It’ll work just fine.
Milk: Whole milk makes the batter rich and moist. For a lighter version, almond milk or oat milk will do well as substitutes. Just be sure they’re unsweetened to keep the flavor balanced.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Your Peaches?
The key to a delicious cobbler is using ripe, sweet peaches. Here’s how to handle them:
- When selecting peaches, look for ones that are slightly soft to the touch and fragrant. These are perfect for desserts.
- Peel and slice them just before using to keep them fresh. To easily peel peaches, blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to ice water.
- Let the peach mixture sit with sugar and lemon juice for about 10-15 minutes. This draws out their natural juices, enhancing flavor and sweetness.
Using ripe peaches and allowing them to sit makes a big difference, trust me!
What’s the Trick to Layering the Cobbler Right?
Getting the layers right is part of the charm of this dish. Here’s the method you should follow:
- As you pour the batter over melted butter, don’t stir. It might feel tempting, but the butter helps to create that lovely crisp top.
- Spoon the peaches on top gently. This way, they sink through the batter as it bakes, creating a delightful mix of textures.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. If it’s browning too fast, cover it with foil to prevent over-browning.
These steps ensure your cobbler has a perfect balance of buttery, peachy goodness!
Easy Southern Peach Cobbler with Fresh Peaches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peach Filling:
- 6 to 8 fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced (about 6 cups)
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
For the Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for the batter)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For Serving:
- Optional: vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus around 40 to 45 minutes of baking. So, in total, you’ll need about 1 hour to have this delightful dessert ready. Quick and easy for a delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when you add your cobbler!
2. Prepare the Peach Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches with 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss them gently so that all the peaches are coated evenly in the mixture. Let them sit for a few minutes to release their juices.
3. Mix the Batter:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Then, add in the milk and mix just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix—it’s okay if there are a few lumps!
4. Assemble Your Cobbler:
Pour the melted butter into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out to coat the bottom. Next, carefully pour the batter over the melted butter. Do NOT stir—it’s crucial that the butter stays on the bottom.
Now, spoon the prepared peach mixture evenly over the batter. Again, do not mix it in; the peaches will sink as it bakes.
5. Bake the Cobbler:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 to 45 minutes. The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick poked into the batter should come out clean.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove your cobbler from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s fantastic served warm, especially topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Enjoy every sweet, buttery bite of this classic Southern peach cobbler! It’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Southern Peach Cobbler with Fresh Peaches
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! This cobbler is versatile. You can use other fruits like berries, apples, or even a mix of different fruits. Just be mindful of the sweetness; some fruits may require adjusting the sugar level.
Can I Make This Cobbler with Frozen Peaches?
Yes! You can definitely use frozen peaches. Just be sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before mixing them with the sugar and other ingredients to keep your cobbler from getting soggy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual servings as needed.
Can I Prepare This Cobbler Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the peach filling and the batter separately ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve. Keep in mind it might take a few extra minutes to bake if the ingredients are cold.
