The Easiest Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe
If you’re longing for a dessert that feels like a warm hug from the South, look no further than The Easiest Southern Peach Cobbler. This classic treat combines juicy peaches and a tender, buttery topping that bakes up golden and crisp, filling your kitchen with the sweetest aroma. Perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or just because, this peach cobbler is delightfully simple to make, yet irresistibly comforting to eat. Prepare to fall in love bite after luscious bite with a dessert that truly captures the heart of Southern hospitality.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of The Easiest Southern Peach Cobbler lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen for their role in creating that perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and warmth. From canned peaches bursting with syrupy juice to a spice blend that gently tickles your taste buds, these pantry staples come together to create an unforgettable dish.
- 2 29 oz canned peaches in heavy syrup: Provides juicy sweetness and tender fruit that’s essential for that authentic Southern flavor.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness—adjust it to suit your preference.
- 5 tbsp melted unsalted butter: Brings richness and helps create a crisp, golden crust on top.
- 2 1/2 tsp lemon juice: Balances sweetness with a fresh, tangy note that lifts the flavor.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the peach filling.
- 1/8 tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavor and contrasts the sweetness.
- 2 cups flour: Forms the structure of the delicious cobbler topping.
- 2 tsp baking powder: Ensures a light and fluffy texture in the biscuit-like crust.
- 1 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the topping, balancing the tartness from the peaches and spices.
- 1 pinch nutmeg: Adds a subtle warm and nutty spice note.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Provides an inviting aroma and increases the comforting spiced profile.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Adds depth and balances the sweetness in the topping.
- 1 cup melted unsalted butter: Pours over the topping to help it crisp up into a gorgeous golden crust.
How to Make The Easiest Southern Peach Cobbler
Step 1: Prep the Peaches
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit—a key step to get that perfect crust. Pour the first can of peaches along with its syrup into a 9×13 inch baking dish for maximum juiciness. Then, drain the juice from the second can and add only the peaches, skipping the juice. This separation keeps the texture balanced and prevents the cobbler from becoming soggy.
Step 2: Mix in Flavors
Combine the melted butter, a pinch of salt, lemon juice, sugar, and vanilla extract directly into the peach and syrup mixture. This step infuses the fruit with zesty brightness and a warm, buttery richness that will shine through after baking. Give it a good stir to marry all the flavors together.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping
In a separate large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until evenly mixed. This combination creates a fragrant, lightly spiced topping that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the peaches.
Step 4: Spread the Flour Mixture
Sprinkle the flour mixture evenly over the peaches in the baking dish, covering as much as you can. Don’t worry if you can’t cover every last edge—this topping will still bake to crispy, golden perfection. Use a clean hand or the back of a large spoon to smooth the mixture into a flat layer, which helps create that picture-perfect cobbler crust you’ll want to show off.
Step 5: Add Butter and Bake
Drizzle melted butter generously over the flour topping, working your way from the top down to ensure the entire surface gets coated—that buttery touch is what gives the crust its irresistible crunch. Bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 375 degrees and bake for an additional hour. You’ll know it’s ready when the crust is beautifully crisp and a warm golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve The Easiest Southern Peach Cobbler
Garnishes
A scoop or two of vanilla bean ice cream is the classic way to crown your Southern peach cobbler. The cold creaminess balances the warm, spiced dessert perfectly. Fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can add a lovely finishing touch for extra flair.
Side Dishes
This peach cobbler can easily stand alone as a show-stopping dessert, but if you want to make it a part of a larger meal, serve it alongside lightly whipped cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese. For a fresher contrast, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully to balance the rich, sweet cobbler.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your peach cobbler in individual ramekins for charming single servings perfect for entertaining. Or layer it with granola and yogurt for a fun breakfast twist. You can also turn leftovers into trifle-layered desserts with cake pieces and whipped cream, adding a fresh summer berry for a pop of color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover peach cobbler tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it easy to savor that Southern charm any time you want a sweet treat.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy The Easiest Southern Peach Cobbler later, freezing is a great option. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use freezer-safe containers. It’s best to freeze before baking for optimal texture. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual.
Reheating
Reheat leftover cobbler in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the crust crisps back up. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that delightful buttery crunch.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh ripe peaches make this cobbler shine even brighter. Use about 5 pounds of peeled and sliced peaches, toss them with a bit of sugar and lemon juice, and proceed with the recipe. You may want to reduce added sugar slightly depending on the sweetness of the fruit.
Is there a gluten-free option for this cobbler?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results. The texture will be just as delicious and buttery, maintaining that unmistakable Southern charm.
Can I make this peach cobbler vegan?
To make this vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free vanilla extract. Make sure your sugar is vegan-friendly as well. The result will still be decadently delicious and perfect for any occasion.
What is the secret to a crisp topping?
The trick lies in drizzling plenty of melted butter evenly over the flour topping before baking. This moistens the crust just enough to bake up golden and crunchy, creating that perfect texture contrast against the juicy peaches.
How long does it take to bake the cobbler?
After an initial 15 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit, reduce the heat to 375 degrees and bake for an additional 60 minutes or until the topping is golden and crisp. The total baking time ensures the peaches are bubbling hot and the topping is perfectly done.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a homestyle dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, you really can’t go wrong with The Easiest Southern Peach Cobbler. It’s one of those recipes you’ll find yourself turning to again and again, whether you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself. Give it a try and share a little Southern warmth with every delightful bite!
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The Easiest Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic Southern peach cobbler recipe that’s incredibly easy to make with canned peaches, a buttery crust, and warm spices. Perfectly crisp on top and filled with sweet, juicy peaches, this dessert is a comforting treat best served warm with ice cream.
Ingredients
Peach Filling
- 2 (29 oz) canned peaches in heavy syrup (use peach juice from only one can)
- 2 1/2 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 5 tbsp melted unsalted butter
- 1/8 tsp salt
Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 pinch nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup melted unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Peaches. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Pour the contents of the first can of peaches, including its juice, into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Drain the juice from the second can and add only the peaches to the dish, discarding the juice.
- Mix Peach Filling. Add 5 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, 1/8 teaspoon salt, 2 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract to the peaches and syrup in the pan. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly. This enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Prepare the Batter. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, a small pinch of nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed.
- Spread Batter Over Peaches. Pour the dry batter mixture evenly over the peach filling in the baking dish. Using a clean hand or the back of a large spoon, smooth out the flour mixture, covering as much of the peach surface as possible, especially the edges. The top should appear smooth, not lumpy.
- Add Butter and Bake. Starting from the top and working down, drizzle 1 cup of melted unsalted butter evenly over the flour batter. Place the cobbler in the oven and bake at 400°F for 15 minutes. Then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional hour or until the top is crisp and golden brown.
- Serve. Remove from the oven and let the cobbler cool slightly. Serve warm topped with a scoop or two of your favorite ice cream for the best experience.
Notes
- If using fresh ripe peaches, peel, pit, and slice about 6 cups of peaches. Toss them with 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract before assembling the cobbler.
- The sugar quantity in the peach filling can be adjusted based on the sweetness of your peaches or personal preference.
- Smoothing the flour mixture on top creates an even crust and ensures the butter can evenly coat the batter, which is key for the crisp texture.
- Be sure not to use the juice from the second can of peaches to prevent the cobbler from becoming too watery.
- Serve the cobbler warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a classic Southern dessert experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of recipe)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 51g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 67g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: southern peach cobbler, easy peach cobbler, baked peach dessert, classic peach cobbler, peach cobbler recipe
