This Southern Peach Cobbler is a warm treat that boasts juicy peaches and a crispy topping. It’s like a hug in a dish, perfect for summer gatherings!
Honestly, nothing beats that sweet smell wafting through the kitchen as it bakes. I love serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—you simply can’t resist! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh peaches really shine in this cobbler. If they’re out of season, canned peaches work too. Just make sure to drain them well. I often use frozen peaches as well, especially when fresh aren’t available!
Sugar: One cup of sugar might seem like a lot, but it balances the tartness of the peaches. For a healthier option, try using less sugar or substitute it with honey or maple syrup – just note that liquid sweeteners can change the texture slightly.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the star here, but if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend can be used, though it may affect the texture a bit.
Butter: I prefer unsalted butter for better control over salt levels, but you can use margarine or coconut oil if you’re dairy-free. Just melt them in the microwave for easier mixing!
How Do I Achieve the Best Peach Flavor?
The key to great peach flavor is letting them macerate. This helps to draw out their juices and enhances their sweetness. Make sure to coat them well with sugar, vanilla, lemon juice, and cornstarch before letting them sit for about 15 minutes. This step really makes a difference!
- Slice your peaches evenly for consistent cooking.
- Stir them gently in the mixing bowl so as not to mash them up too much.
How to Make Southern Peach Cobbler
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peach Filling:
- 6 cups fresh peaches, sliced (or 4 cups canned peaches, drained)
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
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:
- Ice cream or whipped cream (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Southern Peach Cobbler takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 35-40 minutes of baking time. So you’ll be enjoying your warm cobbler in just under an hour! Perfect for dessert or even a cozy family gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cobbler bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.
2. Prepare the Peach Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced peaches, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, the vanilla extract, lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon, and salt. Gently toss everything together so the peaches are well coated. Let this mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and the peaches to release their juices.
3. Make the Batter:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Then, pour in the milk and melted butter. Stir everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as we want a light, fluffy batter!
4. Assemble the Cobbler:
Pour the peach mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or a cast-iron skillet. Spread it out evenly. Next, pour the batter over the peaches, ensuring it covers them nicely.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it! The cobbler is ready when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the cobbler from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve it warm, topped with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if you like. Enjoy your delightful Southern peach cobbler with family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh or Canned?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen peaches, make sure to thaw and drain them first to remove excess moisture. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. They may also require a bit more cornstarch to thicken the juices, so consider adding an extra teaspoon if needed.
Can I Substitute Coconut Milk for Regular Milk?
Yes, coconut milk can be a delicious substitute! It will add a subtle coconut flavor to your cobbler. Use the same amount as the regular milk, but if coconut milk is thicker, you might want to thin it out with a little water to achieve the right consistency.
How to Store Leftover Peach Cobbler?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or microwave individual portions for a quick treat. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream again for the best experience!
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Cornstarch?
If you don’t have cornstarch, you can substitute with an equal amount of all-purpose flour or use tapioca starch if you have it. Just keep in mind that flour may not thicken as effectively as cornstarch, so you might need to let the peach mixture cook a bit longer to reach the desired consistency.
