This Southern Peach Cobbler is a warm, gooey dessert made with fresh peaches and a sweet biscuit topping. It’s like summer in a dish—perfect for family gatherings!
Whenever I make it, the sweet smell fills the house and brings everyone to the kitchen. Serve it with a scoop of ice cream, and you’ll be everyone’s favorite! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh peaches are the star of this cobbler. If they’re out of season, you can substitute with frozen peaches, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness, but you can try brown sugar for a deeper flavor or use a sugar substitute like stevia if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Buttermilk: This adds moisture and tang. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives flavor, but feel free to exchange it with coconut oil or a dairy-free spread if you prefer a vegan option.
How do I ensure the best texture for my cobbler batter?
The texture of your cobbler batter is crucial! You want it to be fluffy yet dense enough to hold the peaches. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Combine dry ingredients until just mixed. Overmixing will yield a tough batter.
- When adding the butter and buttermilk, mix until just combined, leaving a few lumps. It’s okay!
- Spread the batter gently over the peaches rather than stirring it in, as this keeps the layers intact for a better texture.
How to Make Southern Peach Cobbler?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peach Filling:
- 4 cups fresh peaches, sliced (about 6-8 peaches)
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cobbler Batter:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Serving:
- Ice cream (for serving)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful peach cobbler will take about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 45-50 minutes to bake. In total, you can expect to spend about 1 hour and 5 minutes from start to finish, plus a little extra time for cooling before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Peaches:
First, let’s preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grab a large mixing bowl and toss in the sliced peaches, 1/2 cup of sugar, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix everything gently to coat the peaches well. Set this mixture aside for about 10-15 minutes so the flavors can meld together as the juices start to release.
2. Make the Cobbler Batter:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Then, add the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar and mix until well combined. In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Gradually pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring just until the batter comes together. Remember, don’t overmix; a few lumps are okay!
3. Assemble and Bake:
Now, it’s time for assembly! Pour the peach mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish or a cast-iron skillet, spreading it out evenly. Then, spoon the batter over the peaches, trying to cover them as evenly as you can. Place this in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the cobbler becomes golden brown on top. To check if it’s ready, insert a toothpick into the batter; it should come out clean!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, allow the cobbler to cool slightly. Serve it warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, and feel free to garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy the sweet, comforting goodness of your Southern Peach Cobbler!
Can I Use Canned or Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned or frozen peaches! If using canned, make sure to drain them well. For frozen peaches, thaw them and drain excess liquid to prevent the cobbler from becoming too watery. You may also want to reduce the sugar slightly, as they can be sweeter than fresh peaches.
What Can I Substitute for Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute! Combine 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly, then use it in place of buttermilk in the recipe.
How Should I Store Leftover Peach Cobbler?
Leftover peach cobbler can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions if you prefer.
Can I Make This Cobbler Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well. The texture might vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
