Name: Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 8 fresh peaches (peeled, pitted and sliced into thin wedges); 0.25 cup white sugar; 0.25 cup brown sugar; 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 0.125 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 0.25 cup white sugar; 0.25 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (chilled and cut into small pieces); 0.25 cup boiling water; 3 tablespoons white sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Introduction to Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler

When summer rolls around and fresh peaches flood the market, there's no better way to celebrate the season than with a Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler. This dessert is a delightful blend of sweet, juicy peaches encased in a buttery topping that carries a nostalgic essence, perfect for family gatherings or a simple weeknight treat.

What makes Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler a must-try dessert?

A few standout features make this peach cobbler irresistible.

Simple Ingredients: With minimal ingredients, you can whip up this dessert in no time. Fresh, ripe peaches are the star, heightened with a sweet touch from both white and brown sugar.
Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an unforgettable dessert experience. According to expert chefs, pairing warm cobbler with cool ice cream creates a textural paradise that’s hard to resist.
Timeless Appeal: This old-fashioned recipe transcends generations, reminding many of family reunions on sun-drenched porches. The warm aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is simply a bonus!

If you're ready to impress family and friends with a taste of the South, look no further. Dive into the comforting world of fresh southern peach cobbler and savor the flavors of summer!

Ingredients for Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler

Creating a mouthwatering fresh southern peach cobbler relies heavily on the right ingredients. Here’s what you need to gather for this delicious dessert.

Fresh Peaches

The star of this recipe is undeniably the peaches. Choose 8 ripe, freestone peaches for easy peeling and a delightful texture. Look for those that yield slightly to pressure, indicating ripeness. Fresh peaches are abundant in summer—don't miss the chance to utilize this juicy fruit!

Sugar and Spices

To accentuate the natural sweetness of the peaches, a combination of ¼ cup white sugar and ¼ cup brown sugar is key. The brown sugar adds a hint of molasses flavor. A touch of ground cinnamon and nutmeg will elevate the flavor profile, providing that warm, comforting touch synonymous with Southern desserts.

Basic Cobbler Topping Ingredients

For the cobbler topping, you'll need 1 cup all-purpose flour, 6 tablespoons chilled unsalted butter, and a hint of baking powder and salt. Don’t forget about the boiling water to bring it all together! This simple yet flavorful topping complements the peaches perfectly.

With these ingredients, you're on your way to a delightful fresh southern peach cobbler that will impress family and friends alike. For more tips on selecting the best produce, check out EatingWell!

Step-by-step Preparation for Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler

Creating a fresh Southern peach cobbler from scratch is not just a baking task; it’s a delightful culinary adventure that brings joy to your kitchen. Follow this simple guide, and you'll be serving up a warm, comforting dessert that’ll impress friends and family alike.

Gather All Ingredients

Before you dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to have everything you need at your fingertips. Here’s what you’ll require for your peach cobbler:

8 fresh peaches (peeled, pitted, and sliced into wedges)
¼ cup white sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup white sugar (for the topping)
¼ cup brown sugar (for the topping)
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons unsalted butter (chilled and cut into pieces)
¼ cup boiling water
3 tablespoons white sugar (for sprinkling)
1 teaspoon cinnamon (for sprinkling)

Preheat the Oven

Now that you have your ingredients sorted, it’s time to get your oven ready to give your cobbler that lovely, golden finish. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). This ensures that when your fresh Southern peach cobbler is ready to bake, it’ll start cooking immediately, sealing in those delicious flavors.

Prepare the Peach Filling

While your oven is warming up, take a large mixing bowl—this is where the magic begins. Combine your sliced peaches with the white sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Gently toss the mixture until the peach slices are well coated. Once it's well-mixed, pour this juicy goodness into a 2-quart baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. This step helps to release the natural juices from the peaches, creating a flavorful filling.

Mix the Cobbler Topping

While your peaches are baking, it’s time to whip up a buttery, flaky cobbler topping. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, both sugars, baking powder, and salt. Using your fingertips or a pastry blender, blend in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the boiling water until just combined; it should come together nicely.

Assemble and Bake the Cobbler

After removing the peaches from the oven, it's time to complete your fresh Southern peach cobbler! Drop spoonfuls of the cobbler topping over the peach filling. Don’t worry about being too neat—it adds to the rustic charm! Then, mix the extra sugar and cinnamon together, and sprinkle this delightful mix over the top.

Bake in your preheated oven until the topping turns golden brown—about 30 minutes should do the trick. Your kitchen will soon be filled with the irresistible aroma of peaches and spices!

Now, all that’s left is to let it cool slightly before serving. Trust me, the fresh Southern peach cobbler you crafted will be a hit at any gathering!

Variations on Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler

Adding Berries for a Mixed Fruit Cobbler

Looking to mix things up a bit? Try adding fresh berries like blueberries or blackberries to your fresh southern peach cobbler for a delightful twist! Not only do they enhance the flavor, but the added fruit also provides a burst of color. Just toss them in with the peaches, and watch how the flavors meld beautifully during baking.

Making a Gluten-Free Version

For those with gluten sensitivities, fear not! You can easily create a gluten-free version of this classic dessert. Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free. The result? A deliciously comforting cobbler that everyone can enjoy—just make sure to double-check your labels!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler

Selecting the right peaches

When making a fresh Southern peach cobbler, the quality of your peaches is crucial. Opt for freestone peaches, as they're easier to pit and slice. Look for those that are firm yet slightly soft to the touch, indicating ripeness. Varieties like Babcock or Elberta are perfect; their sweetness will elevate your dessert. If you're unsure, visit a local farmers market or try this guide from The Oregonian.

Avoiding a runny cobbler

To ensure your cobbler is perfectly thick and delicious, use cornstarch as recommended in the recipe. Additionally, be mindful of your peach ripeness; very ripe peaches exude more juice, which can lead to a runny cobbler. For best results, consider extending your baking time slightly. When topping your peaches, drop spoonfuls of batter rather than spreading it—this allows steam to escape and gives your cobbler a lovely texture.

Serving Suggestions for Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler

Pairing with vanilla ice cream

Nothing beats a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream beside a warm serving of fresh Southern peach cobbler! The contrast of temperatures—hot cobbler melting into the cold ice cream—creates a delightful texture and flavor experience. For an even more indulgent treat, consider drizzling a little caramel or chocolate sauce on top.

Enjoying it warm or cold

One of the best parts of fresh Southern peach cobbler is its versatility. Enjoy it warm, straight from the oven, for that heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen. If you prefer a refreshing twist, try it cold—perfect for hot summer days! Either way, it's a sweet reminder of summer at its finest.

For more tips on serving peach desserts or crafting the perfect ice cream pairing, check out sites like Serious Eats or Bon Appétit.

Time Breakdown for Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler

Preparation Time

Getting your kitchen ready for some delicious fresh southern peach cobbler only takes about 20 minutes. This includes peeling and slicing those juicy peaches and mixing the other ingredients together.

Cooking Time

Once your delicious creation is in the oven, it will take around 40 minutes to cook. This time allows the cobbler to bubble up and turn golden brown, creating that perfect crispy topping.

Total Time

The total time from start to finish is 1 hour. In just an hour, you'll have a warm, comforting dessert that’s perfect for summer gatherings or cozy nights at home. Feel free to explore more about peach cobbler and its variations at trusted sources like Food Network.

Nutritional Facts for Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler

When indulging in a generous serving of fresh Southern peach cobbler, it’s helpful to know what’s on your plate. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown:

Calories

Each serving contains approximately 562 calories, making this a delicious treat worth savoring in moderation.

Total Fats

With 18g of total fat, including 11g of saturated fat, the cobbler provides richness that perfectly complements its fruity sweetness.

Sugars

Expect about 73g of total sugars in a serving. This combination of natural and added sugars contributes to the delightful flavor and satisfying dessert experience.

For more detailed insights into the benefits of peaches, check out Healthline to learn how they can enhance your diet while enjoying this classic dessert! Enjoy your baking!

FAQs about Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler

Can you freeze peach cobbler?

Yes, you can freeze peach cobbler! For best results, consider freezing it before baking. This helps retain the texture of the cobbler. When ready to enjoy, bake it directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. If you’ve baked it already, you can still freeze leftovers, though the crust may lose some of its crispness. Aim to consume it within three months for the best flavor and texture.

What are the best peaches for baking?

When it comes to baking a delicious fresh Southern peach cobbler, look for freestone peaches. Varieties like Babcock peaches are ideal because their pits separate easily from the fruit, saving you prep time. You can learn more about peach varieties and their uses here from Good Housekeeping.

How do I ensure my peach cobbler is not runny?

To prevent your cobbler from being runny, use ripe, but not overripe, peaches and incorporate cornstarch. Additionally, spreading the batter evenly over the peaches gives steam room for escape, resulting in a perfectly thick and delicious cobbler. Consider baking it a touch longer if it's extra juicy—nobody likes a soggy dessert!

Conclusion on Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler

In summary, fresh southern peach cobbler is an irresistible dessert that captures the essence of summer with each delicious bite. Its warm, juicy peaches paired with a buttery topping make it a delightful treat for any occasion. Don't hesitate to share this classic recipe with friends and family for a taste of comfort and nostalgia! For more peach inspiration, check out Allrecipes for additional variations and tips.