Classic Southern Peach Cobbler

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Classic Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe

A Little History

Peach cobbler is a timeless dessert that originated in the American South during the 19th century. Early settlers, lacking traditional ovens, created “cobblers” by spooning fruit into cast-iron skillets and topping them with biscuit or batter mixtures before cooking them over an open fire. Unlike pies, cobblers are more rustic, with a thick, golden crust that looks like a cobblestone street—hence the name cobbler. Over the years, this dessert has become a staple of Southern comfort food, often served with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Ingredients

  • For the Batter:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp cinnamon (optional, but adds warmth)
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • For the Peaches:
  • 1 large can (29 oz) sliced peaches in heavy syrup (or 2 cans of 15 oz)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
  • ½ cup light brown sugar
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for a spiced touch)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven
  • Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Place butter in a 9×13 baking dish and let it melt while the oven preheats.
  1. Prepare the Batter
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and milk.
  • Stir until smooth and lump-free. Add vanilla extract.
  1. Prepare the Peach Filling
  • In a medium saucepan, combine peaches (with syrup), brown sugar, lemon juice, and nutmeg.
  • Heat gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and mixture is warm.
  1. Assemble the Cobbler
  • Pour the batter over the melted butter in the baking dish. Do not stir—this is key for that classic cobbler look.
  • Spoon the warm peach mixture evenly over the batter. Again, don’t stir. The batter will rise to the top while baking.
  1. Bake
  • Place dish in oven and bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
  1. Cool & Serve
  • Let cobbler rest for 10 minutes before serving.
  • Best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips & Variations

  • Fresh Peaches: If in season, use 6–8 fresh peaches, peeled and sliced. Add ½ cup sugar and ¼ cup water to mimic syrup.
  • Crispier Crust: Sprinkle a tablespoon of sugar and a pinch of cinnamon on top before baking.
  • Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
  • Boozy Kick: A splash of bourbon in the peach mixture makes it extra Southern!

Benefits

  • Comfort Food at its Best: Sweet, warm, and nostalgic.
  • Easy to Make: Simple pantry staples come together quickly.
  • Versatile: Works with fresh, canned, or frozen peaches.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or Sunday dinners.

Conclusion

Peach cobbler is more than just dessert—it’s a piece of Southern tradition that warms hearts and kitchens alike. With its juicy peaches bubbling beneath a golden crust, this dish is a reminder that simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavors. Whether enjoyed on a summer evening with fresh peaches or as a cozy winter treat with canned ones, peach cobbler is always a sweet slice of comfort.

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