Easy Southern Peach Cobbler

This Easy Southern Peach Cobbler is what every summer party needs. The juicy peaches bake beneath a golden sweet crust that bubbles up around the fruit. It is just as perfect for a lazy weeknight as it is for a festive backyard barbecue.

I first learned to make this at my grandmother’s house during peach season. Now it’s one of those recipes everyone in my family asks for every summer.

Ingredients

• Challenge Butter: rich flavor and essential for that tender crust use good quality unsalted butter for best results
• All-purpose flour: the structure of your cobbler measure it by spooning into your cup for accuracy
• Granulated sugar: split between batter and fruit sweetens both layers look for fine pure cane sugar
• Baking powder: helps the batter rise and creates that classic bubbly top check the date to be sure it’s still fresh
• Salt: balances the sweetness and enhances flavors opt for fine sea salt
• Milk: brings the batter together whole milk adds extra richness
• Fresh peach slices: the star of the recipe choose ripe yet firm peaches for the best flavor and texture
• Fresh lemon juice: brightens and intensifies the peach flavor freshly squeezed gives the best fragrance
• Ground cinnamon: optional but adds cozy warmth try Saigon cinnamon for a bolder note
• Ice cream or whipped cream for serving: turns this cobbler into an extra special treat use real vanilla ice cream if you can

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt the Butter:

Place your butter in a 13 by 9 inch baking dish and set it in your preheating oven for about five minutes. Let the butter melt completely. Swirl the pan carefully so the butter coats the bottom. This step ensures every bite starts with rich buttery flavor.

Mix the Batter:

In a large mixing bowl combine flour sugar baking powder and salt. Slowly stir in the milk until no dry streaks remain. The batter should be smooth but not overmixed.

Layer the Batter over Butter:

Carefully pour the batter evenly over the melted butter in the baking dish. Do not stir The key to cobbler texture is letting the batter float above the butter.

Prepare the Peaches:

In another large bowl toss your peach slices with the remaining sugar and lemon juice until every piece glistens. Do this gently to avoid smashing the fruit.

Add Peaches to the Dish:

Spoon the sweetened peaches and any juices evenly over the batter. Do not stir Sprinkle cinnamon over the top if you like a hint of spice.

Bake:

Bake in your preheated 375 degree oven for 40 to 45 minutes. The cobbler is ready when the top is deep golden brown and the edges show bubbling fruit underneath.

Serve:

Let the cobbler rest for ten minutes before spooning into bowls. Serve warm or at room temperature with a big scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

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The peaches are my favorite part especially when they are still just a little warm and melting the ice cream on top. My grandfather used to sneak me an extra scoop of cobbler after dinner and those bowls always bring back sweet memories.

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for up to four days. I like reheating mine in the microwave for about thirty seconds so it softens and tastes bakery fresh. You can also eat it cold straight from the fridge for a breakfast treat.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have fresh peaches you can use well drained canned or thawed frozen peach slices. For dairy free friends use a good plant butter and oat or almond milk. This batter also works with nectarines or berries just keep the same measurements.

Serving Suggestions

This cobbler is classic on its own but a scoop of real vanilla ice cream takes it over the top. If you are serving a family crowd try placing it on a table as a make your own sundae bar with little bowls of chopped nuts or caramel drizzle.

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Cultural and Historical Context

The Southern peach cobbler came about because cooks in the South had tons of fresh fruit during summer and not always enough flour for pies. Instead they made a simple batter and poured it over the fruit so it would bubble up golden in the oven. Today it is a staple dessert for family gatherings and Sunday suppers.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use canned or frozen peaches?

Yes, canned or frozen peaches work well. Drain canned peaches and thaw frozen peaches before layering, adjusting sugar to taste.

→ How do I know when the cobbler is done baking?

The cobbler is ready when the topping is golden brown and the peach filling bubbles at the edges, usually after 40-45 minutes.

→ Should the cobbler be served warm or cold?

It’s delicious both ways! Serve warm for a cozy treat or at room temperature for convenience.

→ Can I use other fruits besides peaches?

Absolutely. Try swapping in berries, apples, or plums for a varied take on this classic Southern dessert.

→ What’s the best topping for this dish?

A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the warm, sweet cobbler.

→ Why shouldn’t I stir the batter and fruit together before baking?

Keeping the layers separate gives the cobbler its signature texture, as the batter bubbles up around the fruit as it bakes.