This Easy Southern Peach Cobbler is a warm and comforting dessert that highlights juicy peaches wrapped in a sweet, buttery topping. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
I love how quick it is to whip up, especially when I use fresh or canned peaches. Just mix, pour, and bake! Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream, and you’re all set! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh peaches are the star here, offering wonderful juiciness. If you can’t find fresh ones, canned peaches work great. Just remember to drain them well to avoid excess syrup in the cobbler.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the dish beautifully. You can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor or a sugar alternative like Splenda if you’re looking to reduce calories.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives a rich taste. If you’re dairy-free, feel free to swap it out with coconut oil or a plant-based butter to keep that amazing flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the go-to for this recipe. If you’re gluten-free, try a gluten-free blend, ensuring it has xanthan gum for better texture.
How Do I Get the Cobbler to Rise and Brown Perfectly?
The magic of this cobbler comes in the layering and baking process. Don’t mix the batter and the peaches—this keeps the flour from clumping and helps the batter to rise. Here’s a breakdown:
- After mixing the batter, pour it directly over the melted butter without stirring.
- Top it with the peach mixture without mixing it in. The batter will rise around the peaches during baking.
- Bake until golden brown. A toothpick should come out clean when you check the batter part.
This technique creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Enjoy!
Easy Southern Peach Cobbler
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cobbler:
- 6 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (or 2 cans, 15 oz each, sliced peaches in syrup, drained)
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Easy Southern Peach Cobbler takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 40-45 minutes to bake. All in all, you’re looking at around 1 hour to enjoy this sweet treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready for the cobbler. This ensures the dessert bakes evenly and beautifully golden.
2. Prepare the Peaches:
In a large bowl, toss your sliced peaches with 1/2 cup of the sugar and cinnamon (if you’re using it). This step brings out the natural sweetness of the peaches. Set this mixture aside for a few minutes to let the flavors meld while you make the batter.
3. Make the Cobbler Batter:
In another bowl, combine the flour, the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix them together well. Then, slowly pour in the milk and vanilla extract (if you want that extra flavor), stirring gently just until the batter is combined. Don’t overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
4. Assemble the Cobbler:
Pour the melted butter directly into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Next, carefully pour the batter over the melted butter without stirring. Don’t worry if it looks a bit messy—this is part of the magic! Then, spoon the peach mixture evenly over the batter, again without stirring. It might seem unusual, but trust the process!
5. Bake and Enjoy:
Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and for a toothpick inserted into the batter to come out clean. This indicates that your cobbler is perfectly baked!
6. Serve:
Once baked, let the cobbler cool for about 10 minutes so it’s easier to serve. It’s delicious warm, and I highly recommend serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for that extra special touch.
Enjoy your delicious, classic Southern peach cobbler! It’s sure to become a family favorite!
FAQ for Easy Southern Peach Cobbler
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen peaches can be a great alternative. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe to avoid making the cobbler too watery.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover peach cobbler in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) will help crisp up the top again!
Can I Make This Cobbler Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the peach mixture and batter separately a day in advance. Store the peach mixture in the fridge and the batter at room temperature. Assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve for the freshest taste!
What Can I Substitute for Milk?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, unsweetened almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk can be great substitutions for regular milk in this recipe. Just make sure to choose one that matches your taste preferences!