This peach cobbler is a warm, comforting dessert made with juicy peaches and a buttery topping. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or cozy nights in!
I love how the sweet smell fills my kitchen while it bakes. And let’s be real, a scoop of ice cream on top makes it even better. Who can resist that combo? 🍑🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh peaches are a must for that juicy flavor! If out of season, canned peaches work too. Just remember to drain them well to avoid excess liquid, which can make your cobbler soggy.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is the main sweetener here, but you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor. It adds a touch of molasses, which pairs beautifully with the peaches.
Baking Powder: This is essential for a light and fluffy topping. If you don’t have it, you can use baking soda instead, but you’ll need to include an acid like vinegar or more lemon juice to activate it.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives rich flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a dairy-free butter can be used instead, keeping the taste delicious.
Vanilla Extract: For a lovely aroma and taste, use pure vanilla. If you don’t have any, you could substitute it with almond extract, but use less, as it has a stronger flavor.
How Do I Prepare the Peaches for Maximum Flavor?
Macerating the peaches is key to enhancing their natural sweetness. When you mix the peaches with sugar and lemon juice, let them sit for at least 15-30 minutes. This draws out juices and creates a syrup that adds flavor to your cobbler!
- Slice the peaches and toss them gently with 1/2 cup sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
- Allow them to rest, stirring occasionally, to obtain that sweet syrup.
- This step means your cobbler will be juicy and full of flavor, balancing beautifully with the batter!
How to Make The Best Peach Cobbler
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peach Filling:
- 6 cups fresh peaches, sliced (or 4 cups canned peaches, drained)
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Topping:
- Cinnamon sugar (for sprinkling on top)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious peach cobbler will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45-50 minutes to bake. Total, you should plan for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Peaches:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grab a large bowl and combine the sliced peaches with 1/2 cup of sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice. Stir everything together and set the bowl aside to let the peaches soak in all that yummy flavor.
2. Make the Batter:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, baking powder, and salt until well mixed. Then, pour in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gently stir this mixture until it’s combined. Don’t worry if it looks a bit lumpy; that’s perfectly fine!
3. Assemble the Cobbler:
Next, pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Carefully spoon the peach mixture over the top of the batter. Make sure not to stir it! The peaches will sink into the batter as it bakes, creating a lovely cobbler.
4. Bake and Enjoy:
If you want to add some extra flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top. Now, place your dish in the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes. You’re looking for it to turn golden brown and bubbly. Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes before serving it warm. It’s amazing on its own, or you can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a tasty treat!
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen peaches, make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or use the microwave for a quicker option. Just remember to reduce the sugar slightly if the frozen peaches are syrup-packed!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make a gluten-free peach cobbler, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Double-check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well. Enjoy the same delicious taste without the gluten!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover peach cobbler in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you need to reheat it, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to bring back its warm, fresh texture!
Can I Add Other Fruits to This Cobbler?
Yes! Feel free to mix in other fruits like blueberries, blackberries, or sliced strawberries for a delicious twist. Just keep the total amount of fruit around 6 cups to maintain the right consistency for the cobbler.