Peach Cobbler is a timeless baked dessert that combines the natural sweetness of cooked peaches with a soft, biscuit-like crust. Originating from early American settlers, this dish celebrates the simplicity of fresh fruit paired with a comforting, golden topping. It’s beloved for its warm, inviting aroma and the delightful contrast between tender fruit filling and crisp, textured crust.
What makes this recipe so special is how effortlessly it comes together using pantry staples, without the need for pre-cooking the fruit or making complicated dough. Whether you have fresh, frozen, or canned peaches, this cobbler adapts to what’s available, making it perfect for any season.
If you’re craving a nostalgic, fruit-forward dessert that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to please, read on for the full recipe, tips, and variations.
Why You’ll Love This Peach Cobbler Recipe
- Requires minimal preparation with basic ingredients you likely have on hand
- Versatile for fresh, frozen, or canned peaches without extra cooking
- Filling thickens naturally during baking, creating a luscious fruit layer
- Biscuit-like topping bakes to a beautiful golden brown and crisp texture
- Balanced sweetness and warmth from cinnamon and vanilla
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6 cups (900 grams) sliced peaches – fresh, frozen (thawed), or canned (drained)
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar, divided
- 1 cup (120 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup (180 milliliters) milk
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Dish
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This size works well to hold the juicy filling and topping without spilling.
Step 2: Prepare the Peach Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced peaches with half of the sugar (½ cup), the lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir gently to evenly coat the fruit.
Transfer this peach mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
Step 3: Make the Biscuit Topping
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining ½ cup sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
Add the milk to the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy—do not overmix, or the topping will become tough.
Slowly pour the melted butter into the batter and stir until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Using a spoon or spatula, dollop the batter evenly over the peaches in the baking dish. It’s normal if the batter doesn’t cover the peaches completely—during baking, it will spread and rise through the fruit.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the peach filling bubbles around the edges.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Remove the cobbler from the oven and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes. This resting time lets the filling set slightly for easier serving.
Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned peaches?
Yes, canned peaches work great. Use two 29-ounce cans, drained well to avoid excess liquid. When using canned peaches, reduce the sugar in the filling to about ¼ cup to balance sweetness.
Can I substitute other fruits?
Certainly! Apples, mixed berries, or cherries can replace peaches. Adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the fruit you choose. For example, berries might require a bit more sugar, while apples might need slightly less.
Why does the batter sink into the filling?
This is completely normal and expected. As the cobbler bakes, the batter rises through the fruit, creating a beautifully textured, layered topping rather than a uniform crust.
Tips for Best Results
- Do not overmix the batter; lumps in the batter create a tender, flaky topping.
- Make sure the peach filling bubbles around the edges before removing from the oven to ensure the fruit has thickened properly.
- Allow the cobbler to cool before serving so the juices thicken and the dessert slices neatly.
- Use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for brighter flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Cover leftover cobbler tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Reheat individual portions in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- You can freeze unbaked cobbler for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
- Avoid freezing baked cobbler as the topping texture may become less appealing.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Add a handful of chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts to the topping for extra crunch.
- Stir in a teaspoon of ground ginger or nutmeg with the cinnamon for a spiced flavor twist.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic pairing.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the cobbler for a decadent finish.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, adjusting liquid as needed.
Final Thoughts
Peach Cobbler remains a beloved dessert for good reason: it’s simple, satisfying, and packed with fresh fruit flavor and comforting textures. This recipe takes the guesswork out of making cobbler by using a self-thickening filling and a biscuit-like topping that rises beautifully over the peaches.
Perfect for summer when peaches are at their peak or anytime you want a quick fruit dessert, this cobbler is sure to become a staple in your baking rotation. Its minimal prep, basic pantry ingredients, and delightful outcome make it accessible to cooks of all skill levels.
Serving Ideas and Pairings
Peach Cobbler is delicious on its own, but serving it with complementary sides or toppings can elevate the dessert experience. A classic scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over warm cobbler creates a perfect balance of hot and cold, creamy and fruity. Alternatively, whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the richness of the topping.
For a slightly more sophisticated presentation, try garnishing the cobbler with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of toasted almonds. Drizzling a bit of homemade caramel sauce or honey over the top adds a touch of indulgence without overpowering the peaches’ natural sweetness.
If you’re serving a crowd, consider making individual cobblers in ramekins or small baking dishes. These single-serving portions are perfect for parties or gatherings and ensure everyone gets a perfectly portioned treat.
Pair your peach cobbler with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a comforting afternoon snack or end to a meal. A chilled glass of dessert wine or a sparkling beverage can also complement the fruity, spiced flavors nicely.