Get ready to fall in love with this Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe, a true celebration of juicy peaches baked beneath a golden, buttery crust that’s both crisp and tender. This comforting dessert brings together the sweet, fragrant flavors of ripe peaches with a simple, delightful topping that’s easy to make but always feels special. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a backyard gathering, this Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe will quickly become your go-to for easy, unforgettable homemade desserts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in making this Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe shine. From the rich butter that helps create the perfect crust texture to the warming spices that elevate the peaches, every component is essential for that authentic taste and cozy feel.
- 8 cups fresh peaches (or 6 cups frozen, thawed): The star of the dish, providing juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the peaches and contributes to the batter’s flavor.
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed: Brings a subtle caramel note that deepens the peach filling.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Warms up the fruit with a classic spice that pairs beautifully with peaches.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds complexity and a hint of cozy spice to the filling.
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice: Balances the sweetness and brightens the overall flavor.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the peach filling to a luscious, slightly syrupy consistency.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick): Creates a golden, rich crust as it melts during baking.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the cobbler’s tender topping.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps it brown nicely in the oven.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Leavens the batter, making the topping light and fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
- 1 cup milk: Combines the dry ingredients into a silky batter for the cobbler topping.
How to Make Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Peaches
Start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, place your peeled and sliced peaches into a large mixing bowl. This preheating ensures your cobbler starts baking immediately, delivering that perfect crust texture by the end.
Step 2: Combine the Peach Filling
Add to the peaches 1 cup of granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Gently stir everything together just until the peaches are coated, ensuring the spices and sugars can mingle without bruising the fruit. This step helps create a thick, flavorful filling that won’t become watery during baking.
Step 3: Melt the Butter in the Baking Dish
Place the butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish and pop it in the oven until fully melted. Removing it promptly after melting ensures the batter will slide right over the butter, soaking up that indulgent flavor as it bakes. This little trick is what makes the crust irresistibly moist and rich.
Step 4: Make the Batter
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together flour, 1 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt. Slowly pour in the milk while stirring until the batter is smooth. The batter should be free of lumps and a little thick, ready to form the fluffy cobbler topping that will rise beautifully over the peaches.
Step 5: Assemble the Cobbler
Pour the batter evenly over the melted butter in the baking dish. Resist the urge to stir. Then, spoon the peach mixture evenly over the batter, again without stirring. During baking, the batter will rise through the fruit, creating the iconic cobbler effect—crispy, golden peaks with juicy, tender peaches underneath.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Look for a golden brown top and a set filling. The smell at this point will be utterly irresistible—warm spices mingling with buttery sweetness. Let it cool just a little before serving to let the juices thicken perfectly.
How to Serve Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe
Garnishes
A scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing that melts delightfully over the warm cobbler, adding a creamy contrast to the fruity, crumbly dessert. If you prefer a touch of elegance, a dollop of lightly whipped cream sprinkled with a pinch of cinnamon can also brighten each bite.
Side Dishes
Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe shines as a dessert, but you can also pair it with a glass of sweet iced tea or a light, floral white wine to complement the natural peach flavors. For brunch or afternoon treats, serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee for an irresistible combination.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve mini portions in individual ramekins with a crispy pecan or oat topping sprinkled on before baking. You can also drizzle warm honey or a bourbon caramel sauce on top for an added layer of richness and Southern charm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with any leftover Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making for a sweet treat anytime you crave it.
Freezing
You can freeze the cobbler before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe dish, wrapping it well, and storing it for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy a fresh-baked cobbler whenever the mood strikes.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. The crust will regain some of its crispness, and the peaches will be deliciously warm and juicy all over again.
FAQs
Can I use canned peaches for this Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe?
Yes, canned peaches can be used in a pinch, but fresh or thawed frozen peaches yield the best texture and flavor. If using canned, drain them well to avoid excess liquid that might make the cobbler soggy.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend of equal measure. Be sure the baking powder is also gluten-free for best results.
Can I add other fruits to the cobbler?
Definitely! While peaches are the star in this Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe, mixing in berries, cherries, or even sliced plums can add wonderful twists and extra flavor complexity.
What’s the best way to peel fresh peaches?
A simple blanching method works great: score a small “X” on the peach bottom and dunk them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer to ice water. The skins should peel off easily, giving you perfectly peeled peaches for your cobbler.
Can I prepare the cobbler batter in advance?
You can mix the dry ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to combine the batter with the milk just before assembling to ensure the topping has the perfect texture when baked.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert that feels like a warm hug and tastes like summer in every bite, the Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe is calling your name. Its combination of juicy peaches, cozy spices, and buttery crust is pure magic, easy enough for weekday dinners yet special enough to impress guests. Treat yourself and your loved ones by baking this charming Southern classic—you won’t regret it!
Print
Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This classic Southern Peach Cobbler features juicy peaches baked under a golden, fluffy batter topping. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, it combines sweet, tender fruit with a soft, biscuit-like crust for a comforting summer dessert.
Ingredients
Peach Filling
- 8 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (or 6 cups frozen peaches, thawed)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Dough Topping
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the cobbler.
- Prepare the peach filling: In a large mixing bowl, gently mix together the peaches, 1 cup granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch until peaches are evenly coated. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
- Melt the butter: Place the 1/2 cup unsalted butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish and put it in the preheating oven until the butter is completely melted. Remove the dish from the oven once melted.
- Make the batter: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the milk while stirring until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
- Assemble the cobbler batter: Pour the batter evenly over the melted butter in the baking dish. Do not stir to allow the batter to rise upwards during baking.
- Add the peach topping: Spoon the peach mixture evenly over the batter without mixing to keep distinct layers for the cobbler texture.
- Bake the cobbler: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes until the batter is golden brown and set, and the peaches are bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cobbler to cool slightly before serving to let it set and enhance flavors. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use fresh peaches in season for the best flavor, but frozen peaches work well when fresh are not available.
- Peeling peaches enhances the texture of the cobbler but is optional if preferred.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
- Ensure the butter is fully melted before adding the batter for proper layering.
- Do not stir after layering batter and peaches; this helps create the signature cobbler crust.
