This Easy Southern Peach Cobbler is a warm and sweet treat perfect for any occasion. With juicy peaches and a golden, buttery topping, it’s comfort food at its finest!
Just imagine digging into a bowl of this fruity goodness with ice cream melting on top. I can never resist grabbing a second helping—it’s just too good! 🍑🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches give the best flavor and texture. If they’re out of season, you can use canned or frozen peaches. Just make sure to drain canned peaches well, or reduce the sugar in your recipe a bit for frozen ones.
Granulated Sugar: While granulated sugar is standard, you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor. Honey or maple syrup can also be substituted if you prefer a natural sweetener, though adjustments might be needed for sweetness.
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended for control over salt levels. If you’re out of butter, coconut oil or vegetable oil works well, giving a different, but still delicious taste.
Baking Powder: This is essential for a light topping. Make sure it’s fresh—check the expiration date! You can substitute baking soda, but you’ll need to balance it with an acid (like yogurt or buttermilk).
How Do I Get the Perfect Cobbler Topping?
The topping of your peach cobbler is key to its success! It should be crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Here’s how to ensure it turns out right:
- Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can make it tough—remember, lumps are okay!
- Do not stir the batter and peach filling together in the baking dish. This keeps the layers distinct as it bakes.
- Pour the batter over the melted butter, allowing it to create a lovely crust as it cooks.
Keep an eye on it while baking! Ovens vary, so your cobbler might be done slightly earlier or later. Look for that golden brown top!
Easy Southern Peach Cobbler
Ingredients:
- 8 fresh peaches (about 4 cups), peeled and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe should take about 15 minutes for preparation and approximately 40 to 45 minutes for baking. Altogether, you’re looking at a little over an hour to enjoy this delicious dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cobbler bakes evenly!
2. Prepare the Peaches:
In a large bowl, mix together the sliced peaches, 1/2 cup of sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gently stir until the peaches are well-coated, then set aside so they can soak up that delicious flavor.
3. Make the Batter:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, baking powder, and salt. Then, pour in the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is just combined. Don’t overmix—lumps are totally fine!
4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Pour the melted butter into a 9×13-inch baking dish. It should be nice and hot! This step is key for getting a crunchy, buttery crust.
5. Layer the Batter:
Next, slowly pour the batter over the melted butter in the baking dish. Do not stir—it’s important to keep the layers separate!
6. Add the Peaches:
Spoon the peach mixture evenly over the top of the batter. Again, resist the urge to stir! Let the magic happen in the oven.
7. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Watch as the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the batter comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the cobbler from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, and for an extra treat, top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream!
Enjoy your classic Southern peach cobbler! It’s perfect for gatherings and will surely impress your family and friends.
FAQ for Easy Southern Peach Cobbler
Can I Use Canned or Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using canned peaches, make sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid. For frozen peaches, thaw them first and pat dry. You may want to reduce the sugar a bit since they can be sweeter than fresh.
Can I Make This Cobbler Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cobbler and assemble it ahead of time. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it just before serving for the best texture. It might need a few extra minutes in the oven if it’s cold from the fridge!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm individual portions in the microwave or place the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Substitute the Butter with Margarine or Oil?
Yes, you can substitute melted margarine or vegetable oil for the unsalted butter in this recipe. Make sure to use a similar amount for the best results—1/2 cup in this case!
