This Peach Cobbler is a comforting and satisfying dessert, with a perfect balance of sweet, juicy peaches and a soft, golden, and buttery topping. The sweetness of the peaches combined with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg creates an irresistible treat that everyone will enjoy.
Not only is this dessert easy to make, but it also fills your home with a delightful aroma as it bakes. Whether you’re serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoying it on its own, this Peach Cobbler is sure to become a family favorite. It’s the ideal way to showcase the best of peach season and is a great choice for any casual get-together or holiday meal.
Full Recipe:
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6 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced
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1 cup sugar
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1/4 cup sugar (for topping)
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
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3/4 cup milk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large bowl, toss the sliced peaches with 1 cup sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Add cornstarch and stir until evenly combined. Set aside to allow the mixture to release its juices.
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In another bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
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Stir in melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is smooth.
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Pour the batter into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Spoon the peach mixture over the batter, ensuring it’s evenly spread out.
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Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar over the top for a golden, sweet topping.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
Peach Cobbler: A Timeless Southern Dessert
Peach cobbler is a dessert that has become synonymous with comfort and tradition. Originating in the Southern United States, this beloved dish has a rich history and continues to be a favorite among many. Whether it’s the star of a summer barbecue or the perfect ending to a cozy family dinner, peach cobbler’s perfect balance of sweet peaches and a golden, buttery crust is a combination that’s hard to resist.
A Brief History of Peach Cobbler
The origins of peach cobbler trace back to the early settlers in the United States. It’s believed that cobblers were created by cooks who didn’t have the necessary ingredients or skills to make a pie crust, but still wanted to create a comforting, fruity dessert. Instead of a traditional pie crust, they used a biscuit-like topping, which became the hallmark of the cobbler. Over time, peach cobbler became particularly associated with the Southern states, where peaches were abundant and frequently used in cooking and baking.
Though there are many variations of cobbler, from apple to blackberry, peach cobbler remains one of the most iconic and loved recipes, particularly in the South. The classic recipe usually features sweetened peaches combined with a biscuit-like topping that bakes into a soft, golden crust.
Why Peach Cobbler is Loved by So Many
Peach cobbler is loved not just for its flavor, but also for its versatility. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it a go-to dessert for home cooks. The sweet and juicy peaches provide a delicious contrast to the crispy, buttery topping. Each bite offers a balance of textures, from the smooth, juicy fruit to the light, crumbly biscuit-like crust.
Another reason for its popularity is its seasonal appeal. Peaches are a summer fruit, and there’s nothing better than using fresh, in-season peaches to make a cobbler. However, peach cobbler can be enjoyed year-round, as canned or frozen peaches can easily be substituted. This makes it an ideal dessert for all occasions, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a winter dinner gathering.
The Best Peaches for Cobbler
When making peach cobbler, the type of peaches you choose can greatly impact the flavor and texture of the dessert. While any peach will work in a pinch, the best cobbler results come from using ripe, juicy peaches. In-season peaches tend to be sweeter and more fragrant, making them the ideal choice for this dessert.
Fresh peaches are typically preferred, as they provide a firmer texture and fresher taste than canned peaches. However, frozen peaches can be a great alternative when fresh peaches are out of season. Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before using them to avoid excess moisture in the cobbler.
How to Customize Your Peach Cobbler
One of the great things about peach cobbler is that it’s incredibly customizable. You can make small tweaks to the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary restrictions. Here are some ideas for personalizing your peach cobbler:
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Add a Crunchy Topping: Some recipes call for sprinkling oats, nuts, or even granola on top of the cobbler before baking. This adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft peaches and tender biscuit topping.
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Spices and Flavor Enhancements: While cinnamon and nutmeg are classic spices to pair with peaches, you can experiment with other flavor additions, such as ginger, cardamom, or even a splash of bourbon or vanilla extract. These flavors will elevate the depth of the cobbler’s sweetness.
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Make it Vegan or Gluten-Free: Peach cobbler can easily be adapted for different dietary needs. To make it vegan, simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy milk. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
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Peach and Berry Cobbler: For an extra twist, try combining peaches with other fruits like raspberries, blackberries, or blueberries. The combination of peaches and berries will add vibrant color and a delightful tartness to balance out the sweetness of the peaches.
The Best Way to Serve Peach Cobbler
Peach cobbler is best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven, but it can also be reheated for later servings. For an extra indulgence, top your peach cobbler with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cool, creamy texture of the ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm, juicy peaches and the crisp, golden crust. If you prefer, you can also serve it with a generous drizzle of heavy cream or a splash of milk.
For a more sophisticated twist, try pairing your peach cobbler with a glass of dessert wine or a sweet tea. The sweetness of the cobbler and the beverage will create a harmonious combination.
Peach Cobbler for Every Occasion
Peach cobbler is a versatile dessert that works for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, attending a potluck, or simply craving a sweet treat, peach cobbler is the perfect choice. Its easy preparation and timeless appeal make it a reliable dessert that everyone will love.
It’s especially popular during the summer months, as peaches are in season and at their peak of sweetness. Serve it alongside grilled meats or barbecue for a true Southern feast, or enjoy it as a stand-alone treat with friends and family. Whether it’s a family gathering or a special occasion, peach cobbler is always a hit.
Peach Cobbler as a Comfort Food
There’s something about peach cobbler that makes it the ultimate comfort food. Its warm, fruity filling and soft, buttery topping evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding many of childhood memories or family gatherings. There’s a sense of warmth and joy that comes with serving a dish that feels like a hug in dessert form.
As the cobbler bakes in the oven, the smell of sweet peaches and cinnamon wafts through the house, drawing everyone to the kitchen. The anticipation of enjoying that first warm, gooey bite makes peach cobbler the perfect dessert for any occasion where comfort is key.
Conclusion
Peach cobbler is more than just a dessert; it’s a tradition that has been passed down through generations. Its simplicity, rich flavors, and comforting texture make it a beloved dish for people of all ages. Whether you’re using fresh, in-season peaches or making it with frozen fruit, this dessert will always deliver a satisfying and flavorful experience. With endless variations to try and the option to serve it in many different ways, peach cobbler is a dessert that will never go out of style.
So, next time you’re looking for a way to celebrate summer or just want to indulge in a delicious homemade treat, look no further than this classic Peach Cobbler recipe. With its irresistible flavor and cozy appeal, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household, just like it has been for generations.