Southern Peach Cobbler

Southern Peach Cobbler is the ultimate comfort dessert — juicy, caramelized peaches baked beneath (and partly above) a soft, buttery batter that crisps up perfectly around the edges. It’s easy to make and even easier to love. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for that classic Southern touch.

This recipe reminds me of the kind of cobbler you’d find cooling on a grandmother’s windowsill on a hot summer day. Sweet peaches baked in a buttery, golden crust — simple, warm, and nostalgic. The first time I made it, the smell alone made everyone wander into the kitchen before it even came out of the oven.

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Cuisine: Southern / Classic Dessert
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Calories: ~310 per serving

Ingredients

For the Peach Filling:

• 5–6 large ripe peaches (about 5 cups, peeled and sliced)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thicker syrup)

For the Batter:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

Optional Topping:

• Extra cinnamon sugar for sprinkling

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it melt in the oven while it preheats.

2. Prepare the Peaches
In a saucepan, combine sliced peaches, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until the peaches release their juices and the sugar dissolves. Stir in cornstarch if you want a thicker filling. Remove from heat.

3. Make the Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add milk and stir until smooth.

4. Assemble the Cobbler
Remove the hot dish with melted butter from the oven. Pour the batter directly over the butter (do not stir).
Spoon the peach mixture evenly over the batter. The batter will rise around the peaches as it bakes — that’s what gives cobbler its signature look and texture.

5. Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly. Sprinkle with a little cinnamon sugar during the last 5 minutes for extra flavor.

6. Serve
Let cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

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Pro Tips

• Don’t stir the batter and peaches — layering is what creates the cobbler crust.
• Use fresh peaches when in season for the best flavor. Frozen or canned work too (just drain well).
• Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the peaches for a richer taste.
• To make it extra crisp, sprinkle coarse sugar over the top before baking.

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Ingredient Substitutions

• Peaches: Use canned or frozen (thawed) if fresh aren’t available.
• Butter: Substitute with margarine or plant-based butter.
• Milk: Any milk or non-dairy milk works fine.
• Sugar: Try brown sugar for a deeper, caramel flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel.
• Great for summer picnics, BBQs, or Sunday dinners.
• Tastes even better the next day after the flavors settle.

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Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store covered for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm individual portions in the oven or microwave.
• Freeze: Freeze baked cobbler (cooled) up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

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FAQs

Q: Can I use canned peaches?
A: Yes! Drain them well and reduce the sugar slightly since canned peaches are already sweetened.

Q: How do I keep the topping from getting soggy?
A: Serve soon after baking, and avoid covering it while still warm — condensation softens the crust.

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes, assemble the peach filling and batter separately, then combine and bake when ready.

Q: Can I use self-rising flour?
A: You can — just skip the baking powder and salt in the batter.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes to bring back that crisp top.