This Southern Peach Cobbler is a warm, sweet treat filled with juicy peaches and topped with a buttery biscuit-like crust. It’s like a hug in a dish!
I love how easy it is to whip this up, especially when I can use fresh or canned peaches. And let’s be real, the smell of it baking will have everyone racing to the kitchen! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Peaches: The star of this cobbler! Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. If fresh peaches aren’t available, canned peaches or frozen ones work too. Just drain and thaw them before use.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the dish. You can substitute with brown sugar for a hint of caramel flavor. If you want a healthier option, consider using honey or maple syrup, but adjust the quantity since they are sweeter.
Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These spices add warmth and depth. If you don’t have nutmeg, a pinch of allspice can be a good substitute. You can also skip spices altogether if you prefer a more fruity flavor.
Milk: Regular milk is great, but for a richer taste, you can use whole milk. If you’re lactose intolerant, try almond milk or soy milk. Just make sure they’re unsweetened to maintain balance.
Butter: Unsalted butter is typical, but you can use coconut oil or vegetable oil as a dairy-free alternative. It may slightly change the flavor but still delivers great results!
How Do You Make Sure Your Cobbler Batter is Perfect?
A smooth batter is key to a fluffy cobbler. Begin by mixing your dry ingredients first: flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. This ensures even leavening and flavor. Once combined, add the milk and melted butter.
- Mix until just combined; small lumps are okay. Overmixing can make your cobbler tough.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking dish. This helps prevent sticking and gives a lovely golden crust.
Remember, the order of adding the peaches is important! By spooning them over the batter, you’ll get that classic layering effect. The peaches will sink slightly during baking, deliciously melding with the batter!
How to Make Southern Peach Cobbler
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peach Filling:
- 4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
For the Cobbler Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Southern Peach Cobbler will take you about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 35-40 minutes to bake. Make sure to allow a few extra minutes for it to cool slightly before you dig in. It’s a treat that’s definitely worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Peaches:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, take your peeled and sliced peaches and add in 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gently toss everything together until the peaches are nicely coated. Set this mixture aside to marinate while you get the cobbler batter ready.
2. Mix the Cobbler Batter:
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, baking powder, and salt. Once mixed, pour in the milk and melted butter, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if a few lumps remain.
3. Assemble the Cobbler:
Grab a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the batter into it, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Now, take your marinated peaches and spoon them along with all their juices over the batter. Try to distribute the peaches evenly so every bite is a peachy delight!
4. Bake and Serve:
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the batter turns golden brown and the peaches are bubbling away. After baking, remove the cobbler from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, and if you like, sprinkle some fresh mint leaves for a nice touch. Enjoy your sweet Southern Peach Cobbler!
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mixing them with sugar and spices. This will help prevent the cobbler from becoming too soggy.
What Can I Substitute for All-Purpose Flour?
If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour mix. Just be sure to check that it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best results!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cobbler in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick warm-up!
Can I Add Other Fruits to This Cobbler?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like blueberries, blackberries, or even apples. Just keep the total amount of fruit around 4 cups, adjusting the sugar if using sweeter fruits. Enjoy experimenting!
