Classic Peach Cobbler – Easy Southern Dessert

Discover how to make classic peach cobbler with juicy peaches and a buttery crust. Perfect for any occasion, this easy recipe is a delightful treat to savor.

Classic peach cobbler is a timeless Southern dessert that blends juicy peaches with a sweet, tender crust. This peach cobbler recipe is straightforward, featuring fresh peaches baked under a buttery biscuit-like topping. It’s perfect for warm summer days or cozy gatherings. Whether you’re an experienced baker or making it for the first time, this classic peach cobbler brings comfort in every bite.

Why You’ll Love It

Classic peach cobbler balances the sweetness of fresh peaches with a soft, golden crust. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients found in most kitchens. Plus, it offers a warm, homey flavor that fills your kitchen with the scent of summer. Serve it alone or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an instantly delicious dessert. If you enjoy Southern desserts, you’ll want to add this to your recipe collection.

Ingredients

• 6 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (use frozen if out of season)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for warmth)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to brighten flavors)
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch (to thicken juices)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar (separate from peach mixture)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder (for rise)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (for richness)

For substitutions, you can swap frozen peaches for fresh in off-season months. Almond milk works instead of dairy milk for a dairy-free option, and coconut oil can replace butter in a pinch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine peeled and sliced peaches with 1 cup granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss gently until peaches are well coated.
3. In a separate large bowl, whisk together flour, remaining 1 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt.
4. Pour in milk and melted butter; stir just until combined. Do not overmix to keep the batter tender.
5. Pour the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out as needed.
6. Spoon the peach mixture evenly over the batter but do not stir. This creates a layered cobbler effect.
7. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the peach juices are bubbly around the edges.
8. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for best flavor and texture.

Expert Tips

Use ripe, fragrant peaches to maximize sweetness and flavor. If your peaches are under-ripe, adding a bit more sugar helps balance the tartness. Ensure batter is not overmixed to keep it light and fluffy. Baking times can vary slightly, so watch for a golden crust and bubbly filling. Let the cobbler rest after baking so the juices thicken up a bit.

Storage

Store leftover peach cobbler covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to regain crispness. It also freezes well: wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations

• Vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk like almond or soy.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of wheat flour.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute butter and milk with coconut oil and almond milk, respectively.
• Refined Sugar-Free: Use coconut sugar or maple syrup in place of granulated and brown sugar (adjust amounts to taste).

FAQ

• Can I use canned peaches for classic peach cobbler? Yes, but drain well and reduce added sugar since canned peaches are sweeter.
• How do I know when the peach cobbler is done? The topping should be golden brown and peach juices bubbly around the edges.
• Can I make peach cobbler ahead of time? Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking, then bake when ready to serve.
• What is the best topping for peach cobbler? This classic recipe uses a biscuit-like batter, but you can also try a crumble topping for texture.
• Is classic peach cobbler gluten-free? Not in this recipe, but you can use gluten-free flour to make it safe.
• Can I add peach cobbler to my summer dessert menu? Absolutely! Classic peach cobbler is a summer favorite that pairs well with other easy desserts like Easy Berry Crisp and No-Bake Cheesecake.

Thanks for reading! If you make this classic peach cobbler, please leave a comment, rate the recipe, and share it with friends.