Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler Recipe: A Classic Southern Dessert
Peach cobbler is one of those timeless desserts that brings back memories of family gatherings, Sunday dinners, and warm summer evenings. It’s a classic Southern dish that features juicy, ripe peaches enveloped in a rich, buttery crust, baked to perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this easy oven peach cobbler recipe will take you back to simpler times with its comforting, sweet flavor.
Why Make Peach Cobbler?
Peach cobbler is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dessert. Whether you’re making it for a backyard barbecue, a holiday feast, or just because you’re craving something sweet, this old-fashioned peach cobbler is a perfect choice. Fresh peaches provide a juicy and slightly tangy bite, while the buttery, golden-brown crust adds the perfect contrast. The best part? It’s easy to make, with minimal prep time, and your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of baking peaches and cinnamon.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Peach Cobbler
For this old-time peach cobbler, you’ll need the following ingredients, all of which you likely have in your pantry:
Filling:
- 4-6 ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch (optional, for a thicker filling)
Crust:
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of sugar (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1/4 cup of butter, melted
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Peach Cobbler
1. Preheat Your Oven
Before you begin, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A well-heated oven ensures that your cobbler cooks evenly and results in a perfect golden crust.
2. Prepare the Peach Filling
In a large bowl, combine your sliced peaches, sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Gently toss the peaches until they’re evenly coated. If you prefer a thicker filling, you can add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to the mixture, which will help thicken the juices as the cobbler bakes. Set the bowl aside and let the peaches marinate while you prepare the crust.
3. Make the Crust
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the flour, half of the sugar (1/2 cup), baking powder, and salt. Add the melted butter and milk, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the crust to be light and fluffy.
4. Assemble the Cobbler
Pour the peach mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or a similarly sized pan. Spread the peaches out evenly across the bottom of the pan. Next, spoon the batter over the peach filling in small dollops. Don’t worry about completely covering the peaches; the batter will spread as it bakes, forming a beautiful golden crust.
5. Sprinkle Sugar on Top
For a deliciously crispy and caramelized topping, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar over the top of the cobbler. This will give the crust a delightful crunch and enhance the sweetness of the peaches.
6. Bake the Cobbler
Place the cobbler in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the top begins to brown too quickly, you can cover the cobbler with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.
7. Cool and Serve
Once your peach cobbler is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to settle, making it easier to serve. Peach cobbler is best enjoyed warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Tips for the Best Peach Cobbler
1. Use Fresh, Ripe Peaches
For the best flavor, choose fresh, ripe peaches. They should be slightly soft to the touch and have a sweet fragrance. If fresh peaches aren’t in season, you can use frozen or canned peaches, but be sure to drain them well before using to avoid excess moisture.
2. Add Spices for Extra Flavor
While cinnamon is a classic addition to peach cobbler, you can experiment with other spices like nutmeg or allspice. A dash of these spices can add depth to the flavor, making your cobbler even more irresistible.
3. Make It Ahead of Time
If you’re preparing for a big event, you can make the peach filling ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. However, for the freshest taste and texture, it’s best to bake the cobbler the same day you plan to serve it.
Why This Peach Cobbler Recipe Stands Out
This old-fashioned peach cobbler recipe is a true Southern classic. It’s simple, straightforward, and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients or equipment. Yet, it delivers the perfect balance of sweet peaches and a buttery, golden crust every time. Whether you’re a peach cobbler connoisseur or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Canned or Frozen Peaches?
Yes! If peaches aren’t in season or you’re short on time, canned or frozen peaches are a great substitute. Just make sure to drain canned peaches and thaw frozen peaches before using them in the recipe.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely. You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 replacement and includes a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best results.
How Long Does Peach Cobbler Last?
Peach cobbler can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Peach Cobbler?
Yes, peach cobbler can be frozen. After it cools completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw the cobbler in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Conclusion
Old-time oven peach cobbler is a classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its combination of sweet, juicy peaches and buttery crust makes it a favorite in many households. Whether you’re making it for the first time or you’ve enjoyed it for years, this simple recipe is sure to bring a little bit of Southern charm to your kitchen. Serve it warm with ice cream, and you’ve got a dessert that’s hard to beat!