The Perfect Southern Peach Cobbler: A Slice of Summertime Bliss
If there’s one dessert that captures the essence of summer in the South, it’s the classic peach cobbler. Bursting with juicy, ripe peaches and topped with a buttery, golden crust, this timeless treat is a celebration of sunshine and sweetness. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to whip up a mouthwatering Southern Peach Cobbler that will have your taste buds singing with delight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh ones? A: Yes, you can substitute frozen peaches for fresh ones in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before using, and adjust the sugar accordingly based on their sweetness.
Q: Can I make this cobbler ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the peach filling and the topping separately, then assemble the cobbler and bake it when you’re ready to serve. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I use a different type of fruit for this cobbler? A: While peaches are traditional for Southern Peach Cobbler, you can certainly experiment with other fruits such as berries, apples, or cherries. Just adjust the sugar and spices to complement the fruit you choose.
Q: Can I make this cobbler keto-friendly? A: Yes, you can create a keto version of this cobbler by using low-carb sweeteners such as erythritol or stevia in place of granulated sugar, and almond flour instead of all-purpose flour. Be sure to adjust the quantities accordingly to suit your dietary preferences.
Q: Can I skip the cinnamon in the recipe? A: While cinnamon adds a wonderful flavor to the cobbler, you can omit it if you prefer or if you have allergies. The cobbler will still be delicious without it.
Ingredients:
For the Peach Filling:
- 9 cups of thinly sliced peaches
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
For the Topping:
- 12 tablespoons of chilled and grated butter
- 1/2 cup of boiling water
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- 1/3 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons of cinnamon
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Peach Filling
In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced peaches, granulated sugar, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, cornstarch, and salt. Toss gently to coat the peaches evenly with the sugar and spices.
Step 3: Make the Topping
In a separate bowl, prepare the topping by combining the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the chilled and grated butter, then use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Assemble the Cobbler
Spread the peach filling evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the topping mixture over the peaches, covering them completely.
Step 5: Bake the Cobbler
In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the cinnamon sugar topping. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the cobbler.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Bake the cobbler in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the peach filling is bubbling around the edges. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add a Splash of Bourbon: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of bourbon to the peach filling before baking. The warm, caramel notes of the bourbon will complement the sweetness of the peaches beautifully.
- Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds over the topping before baking for a crunchy, nutty texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make this cobbler gluten-free.
- Vegan Version: Replace the butter in the topping with vegan butter or coconut oil, and use a vegan-friendly sugar substitute in the peach filling and topping.
Keto Versions and Low-Carb Options:
- Keto-Friendly Version: Substitute granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia, and use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for the topping. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
- Low-Carb Option: Reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar substitute with lower carbohydrates. You can also use fewer peaches or replace them with a lower-carb fruit such as berries.
Indulge in the taste of summer with this Southern Peach Cobbler recipe. With its juicy peach filling, buttery topping, and hint of cinnamon, this dessert is a true Southern classic. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue or a family dinner, this cobbler is sure to be a hit with everyone. So grab your peaches and get baking – your taste buds will thank you!
