Peach Cobbler Recipe
Peach cobbler is a beloved Southern dessert that combines juicy peaches with a buttery, biscuit-like topping. You’ll need ripe peaches, sugar, cinnamon, flour, and baking powder to create this classic treat. For best results, use in-season peaches and avoid overmixing the batter. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent experience. Discover more tips and variations to perfect your peach cobbler.
Ingredients and Preparation
Classic Peach Cobbler
This quintessential Southern dessert combines juicy, ripe peaches with a buttery, golden-brown crust for a comforting and delicious treat. The perfect balance of sweet fruit and tender cake-like topping makes this peach cobbler a beloved favorite at family gatherings and potlucks. With its origins in the American South, this dessert has become a staple across the country, especially during peach season when the fruit is at its peak sweetness and flavor.
Ingredients
- 4-5 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine sliced peaches, 1 cup of sugar, and cinnamon. Let sit for 30 minutes to release juices.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Melt butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish in the preheated oven.
- In another bowl, mix remaining 1/2 cup sugar, flour mixture, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Remove the baking dish with melted butter from the oven.
- Pour the batter over the melted butter. Do not stir.
- Spoon the peach mixture evenly over the batter.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Top Tips
- Use ripe, in-season peaches for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter to ensure a tender crust.
- For a more intense flavor, add a splash of bourbon to the peach mixture.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate experience.
- If using frozen peaches, thaw and drain them before use to avoid excess liquid.
- For a crispy top, sprinkle with coarse sugar before baking.
Variations
- Mixed Berry Cobbler: Replace peaches with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
- Spiced Peach Cobbler: Add nutmeg and ginger to the peach mixture for a warm, spicy flavor.
- Peach-Almond Cobbler: Add almond extract to the batter and top with sliced almonds before baking.
- Gluten-Free Cobbler: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan Peach Cobbler: Use plant-based milk and vegan butter alternatives.
- Peach-Mango Cobbler: Replace half the peaches with diced mango for a tropical twist.
Nutritional Guide
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Servings | 8 |
| Calories | 320 |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 52g |
| Protein | 3g |
This classic peach cobbler is a delicious treat but should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It’s high in carbohydrates and sugar due to the fruit and added sugar. The dessert provides some vitamin C and fiber from the peaches. To make it slightly healthier, you can reduce the sugar content or use a natural sweetener alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the Origin of Peach Cobbler?
You’ll find peach cobbler’s origins rooted in cultural influences and traditional recipes. It’s evolved historically, with regional variations shaping its development. The dessert’s technical composition reflects diverse culinary techniques, adapting to local ingredients and cooking methods.
Can I Use Canned Peaches Instead of Fresh Ones?
You can certainly use canned peaches as a baking alternative. They’re already softened and sweetened, which can streamline your process. Drain them well before use, and adjust your recipe’s sugar content to account for their added sweetness.
How Long Does Peach Cobbler Last in the Refrigerator?
You’ll find peach cobbler lasts 3-4 days in the refrigerator. For best storage, cover tightly with plastic wrap. Extend shelf life by freezing for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw overnight and warm in a 350°F oven.
Is Peach Cobbler Served Hot or Cold?
You’ll serve it warm, ideally within 30 minutes of baking time. Consider individual serving sizes for best presentation. Add topping options like vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Garnish with mint leaves for a professional touch.
What’s the Difference Between Peach Cobbler and Peach Pie?
You’ll notice distinct baking techniques and crust comparisons between cobbler and pie. Cobbler features a biscuit-like topping, while pie has a traditional pastry crust. Flavors and sweetness levels can vary, with cobbler often being slightly sweeter.
Before You Go
You’ve now mastered the art of crafting a delicious peach cobbler. By following these precise instructions and utilizing the specified ingredients, you’ll consistently produce a dessert that’s both technically sound and gastronomically pleasing.
Remember to maintain proper temperature control throughout the baking process and adhere to the exact measurements provided.
With practice, you’ll refine your technique, ensuring excellent results in texture, flavor profile, and visual presentation every time you prepare this classic dessert.
