Homemade Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe

Ingredients

4 cups peeled, sliced peaches
2 cups sugar, divided
1/2 cup water
8 tablespoons butter
1.5 cups self-rising flour
1.5 cups milk
Ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)

Steps and instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a saucepan, combine the peaches, 1 cup sugar, and water. Mix well, bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from the heat.
Put the butter in a 3-quart baking dish and place in the oven to melt.
Mix remaining 1 cup sugar, flour, and milk slowly to prevent clumping.
Pour mixture over melted butter. Do not stir.
Spoon fruit on top, gently pouring in syrup. Optionally sprinkle with cinnamon.
Bake for 30 to 45 minutes until golden brown. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - For combining ingredients
Saucepan - To cook the peaches
3-quart Baking Dish - To bake the cobbler
Whisk - For mixing the batter
Spatula - To spread the batter and fruit
Oven - For baking the cobbler

Recipe variations

Use a different fruit such as apples, berries, or cherries instead of peaches.
Experiment with different spices such as ginger, cardamom, or allspice.
Add a crumb topping made from oats, brown sugar, and butter.
Try using a gluten-free flour blend instead of self-rising flour for a gluten-free option.
For a vegan version, substitute the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, and use a non-dairy milk.
Add chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for added crunch and flavor.
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with caramel sauce for added indulgence.
For a savory twist, add a pinch of salt and serve the cobbler alongside roasted or grilled meat.

Recipe overview

Peach cobbler is a classic, comforting dessert that showcases the sweetness of peaches by baking them with a rich, buttery topping. This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, perfect for both novice bakers and those with more experience. The end result is a beautiful dish with a caramelized crust on top of a layer of juicy, syrupy peaches. Optional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm, aromatic note to the cobbler. Serve it warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to make it even more indulgent. This peach cobbler is sure to be a hit at any gathering or simply as a treat to end a meal.

Common questions

Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh peaches?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using.
Can I use a different type of fruit?
While this recipe specifically calls for peaches, you can certainly experiment with other fruits such as apples, berries, or cherries. Adjust the sugar amount accordingly based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose.
Can I use a different type of flour?
The recipe calls for self-rising flour, but if you don't have it on hand, you can make your own by combining 1.5 cups all-purpose flour, 2.25 teaspoons baking powder, and 0.75 teaspoon salt.
Can I reduce the amount of sugar?
If you prefer a less sweet cobbler, you can reduce the amount of sugar used in the filling. However, keep in mind that the sugar helps create a syrupy consistency, so adjust accordingly to your taste.
Can I add nuts or oats to the topping?
Absolutely! You can incorporate chopped nuts or oats into the topping mixture to add some texture and flavor.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for mixing the batter and other ingredients.
Saucepan - Used to cook the peach mixture on the stovetop.
3-Quart Baking Dish - The dish in which the cobbler will be baked.
Spoon - To spoon the fruit mixture onto the batter.
Whisk - For whisking the flour, milk, and sugar together.
Oven Mitts - To handle the hot baking dish and protect your hands.
Serving Spoon - To serve the cobbler portions onto plates or bowls.
Optional: Ground Cinnamon or Nutmeg Shaker - If you choose to sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the cobbler.

Origin stories

Peach cobbler has been a beloved dessert in the United States since the 19th century. Its origin dates back to the British American colonies when settlers had to adapt their traditional English pudding recipes due to the lack of suitable ingredients and cooking equipment. Instead of steaming their puddings, they covered stewed fruits with a layer of uncooked plain biscuits or dumplings, then baked it all together. The result was a "cobbled" look, hence the name "cobbler." Today, peach cobbler is especially popular in the Southern United States and is considered a staple at family gatherings and celebrations.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.