Southern Peach Cobbler is a warm and comforting dessert that brings a taste of summer to your table. With juicy peaches and a fluffy, buttery topping, it’s simply delightful!
This cobbler is like a hug in a bowl! I often serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Who can resist that combo? Plus, it’s so easy to whip up for family gatherings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh peaches bring the best flavor and texture to this dish. If they’re out of season, use canned peaches—but drain them well to avoid excess syrup. Frozen peaches can also work, just thaw and drain them first.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is key for sweetness, but feel free to adjust to your taste. You can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor. If you’re cutting sugar, try using a sugar substitute like stevia in the same amount.
Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect here, but you can substitute with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or almond flour for a gluten-free option. Just remember to adjust the liquid if needed.
Milk: Whole milk provides richness, but you can swap it for almond milk, oat milk, or any other non-dairy milk. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the saltiness. If you want a dairy-free version, use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute instead.
How Do I Ensure My Batter Isn’t Overmixed?
Mixing the batter is a vital step that needs some care. The goal is to combine the ingredients without overworking the flour, which can lead to a dense cobbler. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix the dry ingredients first, then add the wet ingredients.
- Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. It’s fine if the batter is lumpy—this keeps it light and fluffy!
- Avoid using a mixer, as it can easily overblend and make the batter tough.
Remember, a little lumpiness is perfectly okay! Your cobbler will still be delicious.
How to Make Southern Peach Cobbler?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peach Filling:
- 6 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (or 4 cups canned peaches)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Cobbler Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Serving (optional):
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh mint leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and another 40-45 minutes to bake, making it around 1 hour in total. Perfect for a dessert that’s easy and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your cobbler bakes perfectly.
2. Prepare the Peach Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, take your sliced peaches (fresh or canned) and toss them with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice. Mix gently to coat the peaches and let them sit for a bit. This will help the peaches release their sweet juices while you prepare the batter.
3. Make the Cobbler Batter:
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar. Once mixed, add in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir gently until the batter is just combined; it’s okay if there are some lumps—avoid overmixing!
4. Assemble the Cobbler:
Take a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or cast-iron skillet and pour in the peach mixture, spreading it out evenly across the dish. Next, gently pour the batter over the peaches, trying to cover them as much as possible.
5. Bake the Cobbler:
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown top, and you can test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the batter—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done baking, let your cobbler cool for a few minutes. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, and if you like, add a few fresh mint leaves for a lovely touch. Enjoy your sweet treat!
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen peaches, make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in your cobbler. You may want to reduce the sugar slightly since frozen peaches can be sweeter.
What If I Don’t Have Whole Milk?
No problem! You can substitute whole milk with 2% milk, almond milk, or even buttermilk for a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that it might slightly change the texture but will still taste great!
How Do I Store Leftover Cobbler?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Cobbler Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just check that your baking powder is also gluten-free for a safe, allergen-friendly treat!
