There’s something downright magical about a peach cobbler fresh from the oven. Picture this: juicy, sun-ripened peaches bubbling beneath a golden, buttery crust that’s crisp on top and tender underneath. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you close your eyes and savor every bite—simple, comforting, and packed with the flavors of summer. Whether you’re using peaches straight from the farmers’ market or a trusty can from the pantry, this recipe is foolproof and endlessly adaptable.
Nothing beats a great Peach Cobbler. Whether you're a fan of Dessert Recipes or want to try something from our Appetizer Recipes selection, keep scrolling!
Why This Recipe Works
- Effortless elegance – With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a dessert that tastes like it took all day.
- Flexible fruit – Fresh, frozen, or canned peaches all shine here, making this a year-round treat.
- That perfect crust – A biscuit-like topping bakes up golden and tender, with just the right amount of crunch.
- Make it your own – A dash of extra spice, a swirl of almond extract, or a handful of berries can take this classic in new directions.
Essential Ingredients & Tools
Ingredients for the Peach Filling
- 6 cups sliced peaches – Fresh is ideal, but frozen (thawed) or well-drained canned peaches work beautifully.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar – Adjust based on your peaches’ sweetness—less sugar if they’re super ripe.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice – A bright splash to balance the sweetness and keep the peaches from browning.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Pure vanilla adds depth, but almond extract gives a lovely marzipan twist.
- 2 tbsp cornstarch – The secret to a jammy, not soupy, filling. Arrowroot works too.
- ½ tsp cinnamon – Optional, but it adds a warm, cozy note that pairs perfectly with peaches.
Ingredients for the Cobbler Topping
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour – The backbone of our crust. Gluten-free blends work with a little xanthan gum.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the deal. Brown sugar or coconut sugar add deeper flavor.
- 1½ tsp baking powder – Lifts the topping to fluffy perfection.
- ¼ tsp salt – Just enough to balance the sweetness.
- ½ cup cold, cubed butter – The key to flaky layers. Keep it cold until the last second!
- ½ cup whole milk – Buttermilk adds a nice tang if you have it on hand.
Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – The perfect size for even baking.
- Mixing bowls – One for the filling, one for the topping.
- Pastry cutter or fork – For working the butter into the flour.
- Whisk – To blend dry ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring cups/spoons – Precision matters, especially with baking.
Serves: 8 | Prep: 20 min | Cook: 40 min | Total: 1 hr
How to Make The Ultimate Southern Peach Cobbler
- Preheat & Prep – Fire up your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly butter your 9×13-inch baking dish. A little extra love here prevents sticking and ensures even browning.
- Macerate the Peaches – In a large bowl, gently toss the 6 cups sliced peaches with ¾ cup granulated sugar, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 2 tbsp cornstarch, and ½ tsp cinnamon. Let them sit for 5 minutes—this draws out their juices and lets the flavors mingle. Spread them evenly in the dish.
- Make the Topping – Whisk together 1½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup granulated sugar, 1½ tsp baking powder, and ¼ tsp salt. Cut in the ½ cup cold, cubed butter until the mix looks like coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter bits. Stir in the ½ cup whole milk just until combined—don’t overmix, or the topping will be tough.
- Assemble with Care – Drop spoonfuls of dough over the peaches, leaving little gaps. The dough will spread as it bakes, creating those irresistible craggy edges.
- Bake to Golden Bliss – Pop it in the oven for 35–40 minutes, until the top is deep golden and the filling bubbles at the edges. Let it rest for 10 minutes—this lets the filling thicken so it doesn’t run everywhere when you scoop.
Pro Technique
Macerate Like a Pro
For even more intense peach flavor, let the sugared peaches sit for 30 minutes before assembling. Drain off any excess liquid (save it for drizzling over pancakes!) to avoid a soggy crust.
The Golden Crust Trick
Want an extra-crisp, caramelized top? Brush the dough with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse sugar before baking. The sugar adds crunch, and the butter helps it brown beautifully.
Chef’s Wisdom
Keep It Cold
The secret to a flaky topping? Cold butter. If it warms up too soon, the crust loses its lift. Work quickly, and don’t stress about perfect mixing—a few lumps are good!
Peach Prep Made Easy
If using fresh peaches, blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then dunk in ice water. The skins will slide right off.
Serve It Right
Cobbler is best warm, with a scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream melting into the crevices. For a next-level touch, drizzle with brown butter—it adds a nutty richness that’s downright addictive.
Storage & Freshness Guide
Short-Term Storage
Cover and keep at room temp for 1 day, or refrigerate for 3 days. Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes to revive the crust.
Freezing for Later
Wrap unbaked cobbler tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to the cook time.
Reheating Right
Skip the microwave—it turns the topping gummy. Instead, warm it in the oven for that just-baked crispness.
Nutrition Profile
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Fat | 12g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbs | 52g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Ingredient Variations and Their Impact
- Fruit Swaps – Blackberries or raspberries – Add 1 cup for a tart twist (increase cornstarch to 3 tbsp). Nectarines or plums – Equally delicious if peaches aren’t in season.
- Flour Power – Gluten-free flour – Use a 1:1 blend with ½ tsp xanthan gum. Almond flour – Swap ¼ cup of flour for ground almonds for a nutty depth.
- Sweetener Swaps – Brown sugar – Adds molasses warmth. Coconut sugar – For a caramel-like flavor with a lower glycemic index.
- Spice It Up – Cardamom or nutmeg – Just a pinch adds intrigue. Ginger – Fresh or powdered for a little kick.
Perfect Pairings
Complementary Dishes
- Smoked Pork Shoulder: The cobbler’s sweetness cuts through the meat’s richness, while the fruit echoes any peach-based barbecue glaze. Serve with collard greens for a full Southern spread.
- Grilled Chicken Salad: A light, herbed chicken salad balances the cobbler’s decadence. The freshness of arugula or watercress adds a peppery contrast.
Drinks
- Late-Harvest Riesling: This wine’s honeyed apricot notes mirror the cobbler’s fruitiness, while its acidity cleanses the palate.
- Bourbon Sweet Tea: The caramel warmth of bourbon complements the peaches, and the tea’s tannins offset the sweetness.
Something Sweet
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: The classic pairing—cold cream melts into warm cobbler, creating a luxurious sauce. Opt for high butterfat content (14%+) for the best texture.
- Lemon Zest Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened cream with a hint of lemon zest adds brightness. Fold in 1 tbsp mascarpone for extra richness.
The Ultimate Southern Peach Cobbler: A Slice of Summer in Every Bite
Make the best Peach Cobbler with juicy fruit and a golden, buttery topping. Easy, comforting, and perfect with ice cream. Get the recipe now!
Ingredients
For the Peach Filling
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6 cups sliced peaches
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2 tbsp cornstarch
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½ tsp cinnamon
For the Cobbler Topping
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1½ cups all-purpose flour
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1½ tsp baking powder
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¼ tsp salt
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½ cup cold, cubed butter
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½ cup whole milk
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.01
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In a large bowl, toss peaches with sugar, lemon juice, vanilla, cornstarch, and cinnamon. Let sit for 5 minutes, then spread in the dish.02
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In another bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk just until combined.03
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Drop spoonfuls of dough over peaches, leaving small gaps.04
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Bake for 35–40 minutes, until golden and bubbling. Let cool 10 minutes before serving.05
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