Peach cobbler is a beloved dessert that has become a staple in many households, especially in the southern United States. Its origins trace back to the early colonial days, where it was often made with fruit native to the region, like peaches. The combination of tender, sweet peaches and a golden, buttery topping makes it a comfort food that is both simple and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just craving a homemade dessert, peach cobbler is the perfect dish to bring warmth and joy to the table.
This recipe for peach cobbler is easy to follow, with minimal ingredients and effort required. It’s a great choice for beginner cooks, yet satisfying enough for experienced bakers. Plus, the versatility of this dessert allows for adjustments based on dietary preferences, making it a go-to for all kinds of occasions.
Ingredients
- Fresh or Frozen Peaches – 4 cups (peeled and sliced)
- Granulated Sugar – 1 cup (or to taste)
- All-Purpose Flour – 1 cup
- Baking Powder – 2 teaspoons
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Milk – 1 cup
- Butter – ½ cup (melted)
- Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon (optional)
Substitutions:
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-Free: Replace milk with almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative.
- Low-Sugar: Reduce sugar by half or use a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit.
- Vegetarian: This recipe is naturally vegetarian, so no substitutions are needed for this.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cobbler bakes evenly from start to finish.
- Prepare the Peaches
If using fresh peaches, peel and slice them. If using frozen, thaw them and drain any excess liquid. Toss the peaches with 1/4 cup of sugar and set aside for about 10 minutes.
- Make the Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and remaining sugar. Add the milk and melted butter, stirring until the batter is smooth.
- Assemble the Cobbler
Pour the batter into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Spread the peaches evenly over the batter. The batter will rise as it bakes, so don’t worry if it looks a bit uneven.
- Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve
Let the cobbler cool for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate dessert experience.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
- Choose the Right Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are ideal, but if they’re out of season, frozen peaches work just as well.
- Butter Makes It Better: Use real butter for the best flavor. Don’t substitute with margarine.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the dry ingredients with the milk and butter, stir just until combined. Overmixing will make the batter dense.
- Watch the Topping: If the top starts to get too brown before the inside is fully cooked, cover it loosely with foil and continue baking.
Variations and Customizations
- Gluten-Free Version: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This ensures your cobbler remains just as delicious without any gluten.
- Add Berries: Add a handful of fresh or frozen berries like blueberries or blackberries to the peaches for extra flavor and color.
- Spiced Up: For a warm, spiced flavor, add ground nutmeg or cloves along with the cinnamon.
- Low-Carb: Use almond flour and a sugar substitute like erythritol to make a low-carb peach cobbler.
Serving Suggestions
- With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the warm, sweet cobbler.
- Pair with a Beverage: Serve with a cup of sweet iced tea or coffee for a perfect dessert pairing.
- Garnish: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few fresh mint leaves to elevate the presentation.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fats: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 35g
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use canned peaches for this recipe?
Yes, canned peaches can be used, but make sure to drain and pat them dry before adding them to the cobbler to avoid excess moisture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover peach cobbler in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the cobbler and store it in the fridge before baking. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven, and it should bake as usual.
Closing Thoughts
Peach cobbler is a timeless dessert that never goes out of style. It’s easy to make, customizable, and incredibly satisfying, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe will help you create a delicious treat that everyone will love.
