Homemade Southern Peach Cobbler

Fresh, juicy peaches make up this easy southern dessert. Southern Peach Cobbler is a quintessential dessert that perfectly captures the flavors of summer. Bursting with juicy peaches and crowned with a golden, biscuit-like topping, this classic dish is a heartwarming treat that embodies the essence of Southern comfort and hospitality. Pair it with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet summertime treat.

This homemade Southern peach cobbler recipe is so easy to make and doesn’t take much time at all! This recipe is best with fresh peaches, but if fresh ones aren’t available, you can use canned peaches instead.

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History of Peach Cobbler

Peach cobbler has a storied history rooted in the Southern United States. It is believed that the dish was inspired by early English settlers who brought with them the tradition of cooking fruit with a sweet crust. As peaches thrived in the warm Southern climate, they quickly became a favored ingredient in cobblers. Over the years, this humble dessert evolved into a beloved Southern classic, often enjoyed at family gatherings, picnics, and community potlucks.

Ingredients

Filling Ingredients:

• 8 Large, Ripe Peaches, pitted and chopped
• 1/3 c. White Sugar
• 2 T Fresh Lemon Juice
• 2 t. All-Purpose Flour
• 1 t. Kosher Salt
• 1 t. Nutmeg
• 1 t. Cinnamon
• 1 t. Real Vanilla Extract
• ¼ c. Packed Brown Sugar

Topping Ingredients:

• 1 c. All-Purpose Flour
• ¾ c. Sugar, divided
• 1 t. Kosher Salt
• 1 t. Baking Powder
• ¼ cup Heavy Cream
• ¼ cup Water
• 8 T. Unsalted Butter, chilled
• 1 Egg White, beaten with water added

Optional:

• Whipped Cream or Ice Cream, for topping

What You’ll Need

• Large Bowl
• 8″ x 8″ Greased Baking Pan
• Additional Bowl
• Basting Brush

Instructions

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 20-25 minutes
Serves: 4-6

1. Place the top oven rack in the center position and pre-heat oven to 400°F.
2. Add peaches, sugar, lemon juice, flour, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla extract to a large bowl and toss to combine.
3. Transfer to a greased 8” x 8” baking pan and spread into an even layer. Sprinkle brown sugar on top of the peach mixture before placing the pan in pre-heated oven. Bake for 10 minutes.
4. Add flour, ½ cup sugar, salt, and baking powder to a different bowl and stir to combine. Chop chilled butter into very small pieces with a sharp knife. Add to bowl and combine with dry ingredients with your fingers until small pebble-sized pieces are formed.
5. Add heavy cream and water to the flour mixture and stir with a fork until all the dry ingredients are moist and somewhat sticky. Do not overwork the dough.
6. Remove the baking pan from the oven and carefully spoon the dough over the top, making sure the dough is the same thickness throughout. Leave spaces in between, as pictured, for a more rustic look.
7. Return to oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the topping begins to brown. Remove from oven and brush the top with the egg white wash and sprinkle remaining sugar on top. Return to oven to finish baking, another 10-15 minutes. Remove from oven when the top is golden brown.
8. Allow the pan to cool slightly before serving on its own or topped with whipped cream or ice cream. Enjoy!

Storage

This peach cobbler is best served warm, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

I would not recommend freezing it as the topping will likely become soggy.

Variations

Southern Peach Cobbler is more than just a dessert; it’s a cherished tradition that brings families and communities together. Sharing a warm serving of cobbler after a hearty Southern meal is a time-honored custom. Some families add a touch of nutmeg or even a splash of bourbon to enhance the flavors. In some regions, a lattice crust is used instead of a biscuit topping, adding an extra layer of charm.

FAQs

• Can I use canned peaches?
  • Yes, if peaches are not currently in season, canned peaches will work as well.

• Should I peel the peaches first?
  • It’s a personal preference! The skin on the peaches will soften as it bakes.

• What is a cobbler?
  • A cobbler typically is made with fruit and top crust, with no bottom crust.

• Why is my cobbler runny?
  • If your cobbler is runny, it may not have cooled for long enough. It needs to sit after baking to thicken up.

Have more peaches to use? Check out this sweet & spicy Peach Salsa recipe!

Southern Peach Cobbler is a beloved dessert that reflects the heart and soul of Southern cuisine. Its simple ingredients, rich history, and comforting flavors make it a staple at gatherings and a cherished tradition in the South. Whether enjoyed on a lazy afternoon or at a lively family reunion, this delightful treat brings a slice of Southern hospitality to every bite.