This easy Southern peach cobbler is a sweet dessert that brings comfort to any table. With juicy peaches and a buttery, golden topping, it’s hard to resist!
It’s a great dish for summer gatherings, and I love serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Trust me, it’s so good, you might want seconds! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Peaches: Using fresh peaches is key! If are out of season, you can substitute with frozen or canned peaches. Just drain them well before use. I love the juicy sweetness of fresh peaches, but frozen really works too when fresh aren’t available.
Sugar: The recipe calls for both granulated and brown sugar. The brown sugar adds a depth of flavor. If you want a healthier option, try coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia. I often use half-and-half between brown and white sugar for a richer taste!
Milk: Whole milk provides richness but feel free to use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version. I personally love oat milk as it adds a touch of creaminess without overpowering the dish.
Butter: Unsalted butter is a must for this recipe, but you can use margarine or a plant-based butter if necessary. The melted butter creates a lovely crust, so opt for the best substitute you have!
How Do I Ensure My Cobbler Has the Perfect Texture?
The texture of the cobbler matters a lot! Here’s how to achieve that perfect balance of a crispy top and soft peaches:
- When combining the batter, mix just until ingredients come together. Don’t overmix; it should be slightly lumpy.
- Pour the batter over melted butter without stirring. This allows for a beautiful layer of crust to develop.
- For the fruity layer, make sure the peaches are evenly distributed on top of the batter, letting them sit to create a bubbly filling as they bake.
- Keep an eye on the oven! You want a golden-brown crust that is firm to the touch, but still a little soft where the peaches sit.
Let it cool slightly before serving, as this helps the cobbler set up a bit more!
Easy Southern Peach Cobbler
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peach Filling:
- 8 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (about 6-7 large peaches)
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
For the Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for batter)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
For Serving (Optional):
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious peach cobbler will take about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need to bake it for 40-45 minutes. Total time is around 1 hour, which includes some cooling time before serving it warm!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your cobbler bakes evenly and gets a lovely golden top!
2. Prepare the Peach Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches, 1 cup granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss gently until all the peaches are coated. Set this mixture aside to let the flavors mingle while you make the batter.
3. Make the Batter:
In another medium bowl, whisk together the flour, the remaining 1 cup of sugar for the batter, baking powder, and salt. Then, slowly add the milk to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are okay!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Pour the melted butter into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Next, gently pour the batter over the melted butter—do not stir! Finally, spoon the peach mixture evenly on top of the batter; again, do not mix it. This layering is key for that perfect cobbler texture!
5. Bake the Cobbler:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the peaches are bubbling, filling your kitchen with a delicious aroma.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove the cobbler from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This helps it set up a bit more. Serve warm, and if you like, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for that extra treat!
Enjoy your classic Southern dessert! 🍑
FAQ for Easy Southern Peach Cobbler
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using. Frozen peaches can work wonderfully if fresh ones aren’t available, but they might release a bit more liquid, so adjust the cornstarch accordingly if needed.
How Do I Know When the Cobbler is Done?
You’ll know the cobbler is done when the top is golden brown and bubbly. You can also insert a toothpick into the batter; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs, but not wet batter.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peach filling and batter, then assemble everything in the baking dish and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed. Just keep an eye on the baking time as it may need a few extra minutes.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cobbler in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or oven. A scoop of ice cream on top of warm cobbler makes a delightful dessert!
