Peach cobbler is a beloved dessert that captures the essence of southern cooking. With its warm, sweet peaches nestled under a flaky, golden crust, The Best Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe is perfect for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or a cozy night in. This recipe combines simplicity with rich flavors, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delicious dessert without hassle.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh peaches and spices creates a mouthwatering experience in every bite.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a weekend treat, this cobbler fits right in.
- Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm with ice cream or enjoy it as is; it’s delightful either way!
- Make Ahead Option: Prepare it ahead of time and bake just before serving for fresh enjoyment.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pastry cutter or forks
- Spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 baking dish: Provides ample space for your cobbler to bake evenly.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling.
- Pastry cutter: Helps integrate cold butter into flour for the best texture.
Ingredients
Peach cobbler is a traditional dessert in the south and all over the world. Warm, sweet peaches with a decadent cobbler style crust is the perfect treat for any occasion.
For the Filling
- 2 bags Frozen peaches (20 ounces each)
- 1 cup Granulated sugar (white sugar)
- 1 cup Brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon Almond extract (optional but recommended)
- 1/2 tablespoon Cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons Corn starch
- 1 teaspoon Cream of tartar
- 1/2 stick Butter (unsalted, room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons Water
- 1 teaspoon Fresh lemon juice
For the Cobbler Topping
- 2 cups All-purpose Flour
- 1/2 cup Granulated sugar (white sugar)
- 1/2 cup Brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons Baking powder
- 1 tablespoon Cinnamon (reserve 1/2 for garnishment)
- 1 stick Butter (unsalted cold)
- 1/4 cup Boiling hot water (see notes)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 3 tablespoons Granulated sugar (to dust top of cobbler)
How to Make The Best Southern Peach Cobbler
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures your cobbler bakes evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Peaches
Spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray. In this dish, add the frozen peaches along with:
– White and brown sugars
– Vanilla and almond extract
– Cinnamon and nutmeg
– Corn starch and cream of tartar
– Room temperature butter
– Water and lemon juice
Mix everything together until fully combined. Cover with foil and cook in the oven for 20 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Cobbler Dough
While the peaches are cooking, combine:
– All-purpose flour
– Both white and brown sugars
– Baking powder
– Salt
– 1/2 tablespoon cinnamon
Using a pastry cutter or your hands, work in the cold butter until you achieve a coarse meal or crumble texture.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add boiling hot water to your flour mixture. Stir gently until just combined; aim for a drop biscuit-like texture.
Step 5: Assemble Your Cobbler
Remove the peaches from the oven. Spoon dollops of dough over them—each about the size of a golf ball—leaving small spaces between droppings.
Step 6: Garnish and Bake Again
Combine remaining granulated sugar with the last 1/2 tablespoon of cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture over your dough before placing it back in the oven uncovered. Bake for an additional 30–45 minutes until golden brown on top.
Check after 30 minutes and remove once crust reaches that ideal golden color. Enjoy your delicious creation!
How to Serve The Best Southern Peach Cobbler
Serving peach cobbler is as delightful as making it. This warm, sweet dessert can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance its flavors and textures.
Classic Serving Suggestions
- À la mode: Top your cobbler with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and sweetness to each bite.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cobbler for an indulgent touch.
Pairing Ideas
- Coffee: Serve with a cup of freshly brewed coffee to balance the sweetness.
- Tea: A hot cup of herbal tea complements the flavors without overpowering them.
- Fresh Mint: Garnish with mint leaves for a refreshing burst of flavor.
Special Occasions
- Holidays: Make this cobbler a centerpiece dessert during festive gatherings.
- Picnics: Pack slices of peach cobbler in portable containers for outdoor events.
How to Perfect The Best Southern Peach Cobbler
Perfecting your peach cobbler can elevate it from good to unforgettable. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results.
- Bold flavors: Use ripe, juicy peaches or high-quality frozen peaches to enhance sweetness and texture.
- Cinnamon magic: Don’t skimp on cinnamon; it’s key to bringing warmth and depth to the dish.
- Butter quality: Choose unsalted butter for better control over the sweetness and flavor balance.
- Texture check: Ensure your cobbler dough has a drop biscuit-like consistency for the perfect crumbly topping.
- Bake wisely: Monitor the baking time closely; every oven is different, so check for that golden crust at 30 minutes.
Best Side Dishes for The Best Southern Peach Cobbler
Pairing side dishes with your peach cobbler can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas that complement its sweet and fruity notes.
- Grilled Chicken Salad: A light salad with grilled chicken balances the richness of the cobbler.
- Blue Cheese Biscuits: These savory biscuits provide a nice contrast to the sweet dessert.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and acidity, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Cornbread Muffins: Soft cornbread muffins pair well with peach flavors while providing extra comfort.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and complements the peach theme beautifully.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries bring a touch of savory sweetness that contrasts nicely with dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making peach cobbler can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch for.
- Using fresh peaches instead of frozen: Fresh peaches may not have the same juicy sweetness as frozen ones, especially when out of season. Stick with frozen peaches for consistent flavor and texture.
- Skipping the resting time for the dough: If you rush the dough preparation, it may not achieve the right texture. Allowing it to rest can help develop flavors and improve the final result.
- Not covering the dish while baking initially: Covering the dish for part of the baking time helps steam the peaches and ensures they soften up nicely. Don’t skip this step!
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to a tough cobbler. Combine ingredients until just mixed for a tender texture.
- Neglecting to check for doneness: Every oven is different. Checking your cobbler at 30 minutes ensures you catch it at that perfect golden brown stage.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container: Keep your peach cobbler in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Consume within 3-5 days: For best taste and quality, eat your stored cobbler within this time frame.
Freezing The Best Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe
- Use a freezer-safe container: Make sure to use a container or wrap that prevents freezer burn.
- Freeze for up to 3 months: This cobbler freezes well, so you can enjoy it later!
Reheating The Best Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power for 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gently while stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common queries regarding making The Best Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe.
Can I use fresh peaches instead of frozen?
Yes, but frozen peaches are recommended for their sweetness and juiciness. If using fresh, ensure they’re ripe and sweet for best results.
How do I know when my cobbler is done?
The crust should be golden brown, and you can check by inserting a toothpick into the dough; it should come out clean.
Can I customize The Best Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, switch spices, or even mix in berries for extra flavor. Get creative!
How long does The Best Southern Peach Cobbler last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts about 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
The Best Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or as a comforting dessert after dinner, it’s sure to impress. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or spices! Don’t hesitate—try this delightful recipe today!
The Best Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe
The Best Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe is a quintessential dessert that embodies the heart of Southern cooking. With juicy, sweet peaches enveloped in a rich, buttery crust, this cobbler is a perfect blend of comfort and indulgence. Ideal for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or simply as a cozy treat at home, this recipe offers an uncomplicated approach to creating an unforgettable dessert.
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Ingredients
- 2 bags frozen peaches (20 ounces each)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 stick unsalted butter (cold)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- Spices: cinnamon, nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a greased 9×13 baking dish, combine frozen peaches with sugars, extracts, spices, corn starch, butter, water, and lemon juice. Mix well and cover with foil; bake for 20 minutes.
- While the peaches bake, mix flour, sugars, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
- Stir boiling water into the flour mixture until just combined.
- Spoon dollops of dough over baked peaches and sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mix.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 30–45 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg