Ready for a taste of summer? This Fresh Peach Cobbler is pure comfort in a dish, bursting with sweet, juicy peaches and a tender, golden topping. It’s surprisingly simple to make and perfect for any occasion.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Fresh Peaches: Choose ripe but firm peaches. Frozen sliced peaches can work in a pinch, just thaw and drain excess liquid.
- All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of your cobbler topping. A gluten-free 1:1 baking blend can be used for a GF option.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both the fruit and the topping. Brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor in the filling.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling saltiness. Margarine or plant-based butter can be substituted.
- Baking Powder: Essential for a light and fluffy topping. Make sure yours is fresh.
- Milk: Any kind of milk works here, from dairy to almond milk.
Ingredients
For the Peach Filling:
* 6 cups fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced (about 6-8 medium peaches)
* ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to peach sweetness)
* 2 tablespoons cornstarch
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
* Pinch of salt
For the Cobbler Topping:
* 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
* ½ cup granulated sugar
* 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
* ½ cup milk
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Tools Needed: 9×13 inch baking dish, large bowl, medium bowl, whisk, pastry blender (or forks)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Peaches
In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced peaches with ½ cup sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt. Make sure all the peach slices are coated.
2. Assemble the Filling
Pour the prepared peach mixture evenly into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread them out so they form an even layer.
3. Make the Cobbler Topping
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ½ cup sugar, baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and cut it into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add the Milk to the Topping
Pour the milk into the flour and butter mixture. Stir just until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
5. Top the Peaches
Drop spoonfuls of the cobbler topping over the peach filling in the baking dish. Don’t worry if it doesn’t cover every bit of the peaches; it will spread as it bakes.
6. Bake the Cobbler
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the Fresh Peach Cobbler for 35-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the peach filling is bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Fresh Peach Cobbler loosely covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can gently reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use canned peaches for peach cobbler? Yes, you can, but fresh or frozen peaches provide the best flavor and texture. If using canned, drain them very well and reduce the sugar in the filling.
- How do I know if my peaches are ripe? Ripe peaches will have a sweet aroma and give slightly when gently squeezed.
- Can I make peach cobbler ahead of time? You can prepare the peach filling and the topping dough separately and refrigerate them. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best results.
- Why is my cobbler topping not fluffy? Overmixing the topping dough or using warm butter can result in a tough topping. Make sure your butter is cold and mix just until combined.
- What should I serve with peach cobbler? Fresh Peach Cobbler is delicious on its own, but it’s extra special with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Can I freeze peach cobbler? Yes, you can freeze baked peach cobbler. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat.