Peach Cobbler Pie: A Southern Delight with a Sweet Twist
Introduction
Peach Cobbler Pie combines the best of two desserts—the comforting simplicity of cobbler and the structured elegance of pie. This dessert is a celebration of juicy peaches encased in a buttery crust and topped with a golden, flaky topping. Perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy evening treat, Peach Cobbler Pie is a dish that warms hearts and fills bellies.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups (155g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 3–4 tbsp ice water
For the Filling:
- 6–7 fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (or 5 cups canned peaches, drained)
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (55g) brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Cobbler Topping:
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (55g) brown sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/3 cup (80ml) whole milk
For Brushing and Garnish:
- 1 egg, beaten (optional, for brushing crust)
- 1 tbsp coarse sugar (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Pie Crust
- In a bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
- Add chilled butter and cut it into the flour using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine peach slices, sugars, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Toss until peaches are evenly coated.
Step 3: Make the Cobbler Topping
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, sugars, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in melted butter and milk until just combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the chilled pie crust on a floured surface and place it into a 9-inch pie dish, trimming excess dough.
- Pour the peach filling into the crust.
- Spoon dollops of the cobbler topping over the filling, leaving some gaps for the filling to bubble through.
- Optional: Brush the crust edges with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
- Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch drips and bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbly.
- Allow the pie to cool for at least 1 hour before serving.
Methods
- Chilling the Dough: Ensures the crust is flaky and doesn’t shrink during baking.
- Coating the Peaches: Prevents sogginess and adds flavor depth.
- Layering Topping: The cobbler topping provides texture contrast and a rustic aesthetic.
- Baking on a Sheet: Catches any drips and prevents mess in the oven.
History
Peach cobblers date back to the early American settlers who used simple ingredients to create desserts without traditional ovens. Over time, the cobbler evolved, and this pie hybrid emerged as a fusion of cobbler and classic fruit pie, popular in Southern cuisine.
Benefits
- Rich in Vitamins: Peaches are loaded with Vitamin C and A, which boost immunity and skin health.
- Seasonal Delight: Perfect for using fresh peaches during summer or canned peaches in winter.
- Versatile: Can be served warm with ice cream or cold as a stand-alone treat.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, making it a hit at gatherings.
- Rich in Nutrients
- Peaches: High in vitamins A and C, promoting healthy skin, strong immunity, and good vision.
- Cinnamon: Contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Source of Energy
- The carbohydrates from the crust and sugars provide a quick energy boost, making it an excellent treat after a long day.
- Comfort Food
- Warm and satisfying, Peach Cobbler Pie is perfect for uplifting spirits and relieving stress.
- Seasonal Delight
- Made with fresh peaches, it celebrates the summer harvest, ensuring you enjoy fruit at its peak flavor and nutrition.
- Customizable Dessert
- Can be adapted to suit dietary preferences, such as using whole-grain crusts, natural sweeteners, or dairy-free toppings.
- Promotes Family Bonding
- Baking and sharing this dessert fosters togetherness and creates cherished memories with loved ones.
- High in Fiber
- Peaches and the crust contribute to dietary fiber, supporting healthy digestion and satiety.
- Versatility in Serving
- Enjoy it warm, cold, or à la mode with ice cream, making it suitable for various occasions and preferences.
- Heartwarming Tradition
- Reflects a heritage of home-baked goodness, reminding us of the joys of homemade, wholesome desserts.
- Celebrates Natural Sweetness
- Highlights the natural sugars of peaches, reducing the need for excessive sweeteners.
Peach Cobbler Pie is not just a dessert; it’s a wholesome, nourishing experience that satisfies both the body and soul.
Formation
Peach Cobbler Pie is crafted with a structured pie crust base, a juicy peach filling, and a dolloped cobbler-style topping that bakes to golden perfection.
Nutrition (Per Slice – Based on 8 Servings)
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 4g
- Vitamin C: 10% of daily value
- Calcium: 4% of daily value
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 4g
- Vitamin A: 10% of daily value
- Vitamin C: 10% of daily value
- Calcium: 4% of daily value
- Iron: 5% of daily value
Key Nutritional Highlights
- Calories:
- Moderately indulgent, making it suitable for a treat or special occasion.
- Healthy Fats:
- Contains unsaturated fats from butter, contributing to flavor and satiety.
- Carbohydrates:
- Provides energy from natural sugars in peaches and added sweeteners.
- Dietary Fiber:
- Fiber from peaches and crust supports digestion and helps you feel full.
- Vitamins:
- Peaches contribute essential vitamins like A and C, supporting immune function and skin health.
- Minerals:
- Offers small amounts of calcium for bone health and iron for oxygen transport in the blood.
- Protein:
- Contains 4g of protein, primarily from the crust and cobbler topping.
Tips for a Healthier Peach Cobbler Pie
- Use whole-wheat flour for added fiber.
- Substitute natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for granulated sugar.
- Add nuts or seeds to the topping for extra protein and healthy fats.
- Reduce butter and replace with a mix of applesauce and butter for a lighter option.
Enjoy Peach Cobbler Pie as a balanced indulgence, pairing its sweet flavor with a healthy approach to serving size!
Conclusion
Peach Cobbler Pie is more than a dessert—it’s a celebration of tradition, flavor, and the joy of sharing. With its buttery crust, sweet peaches, and crumbly topping, this pie is a treat that brings comfort and delight to every occasion.
Lovers of Peach Cobbler Pie
From peach lovers to dessert enthusiasts, this pie is adored by anyone who enjoys a blend of sweet and tart flavors with a homemade touch. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a pairing that makes hearts melt!
Now, grab your peaches, roll up your sleeves, and create this masterpiece that promises to wow your family and friends!