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There is something truly magical about diving into a warm, bubbly Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe that captures the essence of juicy peaches, sweet spices, and a tender, golden crust all in one comforting dish. This cobbler is an absolute celebration of fresh peaches, perfectly balanced sugar, and a buttery biscuit topping that pulls together to create a dessert that feels like a hug in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a backyard picnic or a cozy family dinner, this Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe brings the best of Southern charm and homey indulgence all in one pan.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role, from the sweetness of the peaches and sugars to the light, fluffy texture of the batter that rises beautifully during baking. These basic pantry staples come together to create a dish that feels both rustic and special.
- 8 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (or 6 cups frozen peaches, thawed): The star of the dish, ripe peaches provide all the juicy flavor and natural sweetness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Essential for sweetening the peach filling just right without overpowering it.
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed: Adds a subtle molasses note that deepens the flavor of the peaches.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A warm, gentle spice that complements the sweetness of the fruit.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg brings a cozy, aromatic touch to the filling.
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the peach juices so the filling isn’t runny.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick): Melted butter creates a rich, crisp base for the cobbler topping.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation for the batter, giving it structure and tenderness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter, rounding out the flavor.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Provides the lift that makes the topping light and airy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without stealing the spotlight.
- 1 cup milk: Brings moisture to the batter so it bakes up soft and comforting.
How to Make Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a hot environment for your cobbler to bake evenly, achieving that perfect golden crust and bubbling filling that will soon fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Step 2: Mix the Peach Filling
In a large bowl, gently toss together the peaches, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Each ingredient has a distinct role here: the sugars and spices build depth, lemon adds zing, and cornstarch thickens. Let this mixture sit for a few minutes to coat the peaches thoroughly and develop flavor.
Step 3: Melt the Butter
Place the butter in your 9×13-inch baking dish and pop it into the oven until fully melted. This step creates a buttery moat in which the batter will cook, resulting in a rich, crispy bottom crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender cobbler topping.
Step 4: Prepare the Cobbler Batter
While the butter melts, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Slowly mix in the milk until smooth, creating a batter that will rise wonderfully around the peaches during baking, producing that iconic cobbler texture.
Step 5: Assemble the Cobbler
Pour the batter evenly over the melted butter in the baking dish, but do not stir. Then spoon the peach mixture gently on top, again without mixing. It may look unusual at first, but during baking, the batter will rise up over the peaches to create a delightful, biscuit-like topping.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the assembled dish into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is beautifully golden brown and the peach filling is bubbly and thick. Let it cool a little before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
How to Serve Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe
Garnishes
Serving your Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream elevates the experience, creating a luscious contrast between warm and cold. A dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top can add a charming, decorative touch that also boosts flavor.
Side Dishes
This cobbler shines as a standalone dessert but pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of sweet iced tea. For a Southern-style meal, serve it after classics like fried chicken or barbecue for a sweet finish that celebrates local traditions.
Creative Ways to Present
For a unique twist, try individual servings baked in ramekins, perfect for dinner parties. Layer the cobbler in a trifle bowl with whipped cream between servings for a visually stunning and decadent treat. Either way, the Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe is sure to impress every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the cobbler tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, perfect for enjoying a few extra helpings without any loss of flavor or texture.
Freezing
You can freeze your Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe dish and wrapping it tightly. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed. It’s a great way to have this dessert ready for unexpected guests.
Reheating
Reheat your cobbler in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes or until warm throughout. For a quick fix, a microwave can work, but the oven method helps preserve that lovely crisp topping. Serve immediately, perhaps with that signature scoop of vanilla ice cream!
FAQs
Can I use frozen peaches for this Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen peaches work well and are a great alternative when fresh peaches aren’t in season. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid in the filling.
What if I don’t have buttermilk for the batter?
Since this recipe uses regular milk, no need for buttermilk. The baking powder handles the rising, so simple milk keeps the batter light and tender without any extra tang.
Is this Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe very sweet?
This recipe balances sweetness from both brown and granulated sugar and the natural sugar of the peaches. If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the sugars slightly or use tart peaches to balance the flavors.
Can I make this cobbler gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. The texture might be a bit different, but the flavor will still shine beautifully.
What is the best way to peel peaches easily?
The easiest method is to blanch fresh peaches in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer them to ice water. The skins will slip right off, making peeling a breeze without wasting any juicy fruit.
Final Thoughts
If there’s a dessert that wraps you in Southern hospitality and pure peach bliss, it’s this Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe. Its simple ingredients and easy steps come together in a dish bursting with flavor and warmth — perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether it’s your first time or a trusted favorite, this cobbler promises sweet memories in every bite. Give it a try and watch how it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen!
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Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
A classic Southern Peach Cobbler recipe featuring juicy peaches baked under a golden, fluffy batter topping. This easy-to-make dessert combines sweet, spiced peaches with a soft, biscuit-like crust, perfect served warm with vanilla ice cream for a comforting treat.
Ingredients
Peach Filling
- 8 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (or 6 cups frozen peaches, thawed)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the cobbler evenly.
- Prepare Peach Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled and sliced peaches with 1 cup granulated sugar, packed light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Stir gently until all the peaches are evenly coated with the mixture. Set aside to marinate.
- Melt Butter: Place the unsalted butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish and put it into the preheated oven. Allow the butter to melt completely, then carefully remove the dish from the oven.
- Make Batter: In a medium bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the milk while stirring until you achieve a smooth batter without lumps.
- Assemble Cobbler – Batter: Pour the batter evenly over the melted butter in the baking dish. Do not stir; the batter will bake into a fluffy topping.
- Assemble Cobbler – Peaches: Spoon the prepared peach mixture evenly over the batter layer. Again, do not stir. During baking, the batter will rise to form a cobbler-like crust over the fruit.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the cobbler is set.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. For best enjoyment, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.
Notes
- Peeling peaches is optional but recommended for the best texture.
- Frozen peaches can be used but should be fully thawed and drained to avoid excess liquid.
- Do not stir batter and peaches once combined in the baking dish to ensure the proper cobbler texture.
- For a richer flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently before serving.
