This Easy Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler is a sweet and juicy treat that will bring a taste of summer right to your table. It’s made with ripe peaches and a buttery topping!
Every bite feels like a warm hug, especially when it’s fresh out of the oven. You can serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and trust me, it’s heavenly! 🍑
I love how simple it is to whip up this cobbler. Just peel, slice, and mix—then pop it in the oven. It’s a crowd-pleaser that makes any day feel special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are the star of this dish. Look for peaches that are slightly soft when squeezed. If fresh peaches aren’t available, you can use canned peaches, but drain them well to avoid excess liquid.
Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar: These sugars add sweetness and depth of flavor. If you’re looking to reduce sugar, you can use a sugar substitute or even honey. Just adjust to taste!
Flour: All-purpose flour works best for the topping. However, for a gluten-free option, you can substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred here for control over salt content. You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Properly Macerate Peaches for Best Flavor?
Macerating peaches helps extract their juices, making them even sweeter and more flavorful. Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Combine the sliced peaches with sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, lemon juice, and cornstarch in a bowl.
- Toss gently to coat, ensuring all slices are covered.
- Let the mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes. During this time, the peaches will release their juices, creating a sweet syrup.
This step enhances the flavor and makes sure your cobbler will be juicy and delicious!
Easy Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peach Filling:
- 6 to 7 fresh ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
For the Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious peach cobbler takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 40-45 minutes to bake. In under an hour, you’ll have a warm, comforting dessert ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a deep oven-safe skillet with a little butter. This will help your cobbler come out clean after baking.
2. Prepare the Peach Filling:
In a large bowl, add your sliced peaches, 1 cup granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), vanilla extract, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss everything together gently to coat the peach slices evenly. Let this mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes to macerate, allowing the peaches to release their juices.
3. Make the Batter:
While the peaches are resting, grab another bowl and whisk together the flour, 1 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt. Then pour in the milk and melted butter. Stir until just combined—it’s okay if there are a few lumps, but don’t overmix!
4. Assemble the Cobbler:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Carefully spoon the peach mixture with its juices evenly over the top of the batter. Don’t worry if it looks a little messy; it will rise around the peaches as it bakes!
5. Bake:
Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the batter comes out clean. The smell will be incredible!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the cobbler cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm, and you can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra treat. Enjoy your delicious fresh Southern peach cobbler—a true summer delight!
FAQ for Easy Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! If using frozen peaches, make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the mixture. Frozen peaches might also require a bit more sugar, depending on their sweetness.
What If I Don’t Have Cornstarch?
No problem! You can substitute cornstarch with an equal amount of all-purpose flour or use tapioca starch if you have it. This will still help thicken the peach juices and create a delicious filling.
Can I Make This Cobbler Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the peach filling and batter separately and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble and bake as instructed. Just note that it may take a couple of extra minutes to bake if the mixture is cold.
How Should I Store Leftover Peach Cobbler?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. It’s also delicious served cold or at room temperature!
