A Comprehensive Guide to Making Easy Peach Cobbler
Welcome to our step-by-step guide on how to make a delicious peach cobbler without complicating the process too much. Whether you prefer a cake-like texture or a traditional cobbler dough, this recipe is perfect for both fresh and canned peaches. Let's dive in!
Ingredients
For the Filling:
4 cups of sliced fresh peaches or 2 cans of 15 oz sliced peaches, drained 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)For the Cobbler Topping:
1 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup granulated sugar 1 tablespoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup milk 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted 1 teaspoon vanilla extractInstructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Peach Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the peaches, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon (if using). Mix gently until the peaches are evenly coated. Pour the peach mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.Make the Cobbler Topping:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined, do not overmix.Assemble the Cobbler:
Pour the cobbler topping over the peach filling. Do not stir it, as it will spread during baking.Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the topping comes out clean.Serve:
Let it cool slightly before serving. This cobbler is delicious on its own or served with vanilla ice cream.Variations and Tips
While many cobbler recipes are similar, the dough's consistency can vary greatly depending on personal preference. Some prefer a cake-like dough, while others favor a traditional pie crust texture. I typically make the dough thicker, similar to a biscuit.
You can use fresh peaches over canned peaches because fresh fruit is firmer, holds its shape better, and is generally fresher. Ripe peaches like peaches, pears, apricots, nectarines, and plums work well. For a unique twist, add spices like ground ginger.
To save time, you can use Bisquick or substitute 1 cup of all-purpose flour for Bisquick. This recipe can also be halved by using an 8x8-inch pan and reducing the fruit and ingredients proportionally.
Additional Tips for Success
Melt Butter: Melt 1/2 stick of butter in a 9x13 pan and set it aside. This helps prevent sticking and ensures a smooth baking surface.
Filling: In a large bowl, mix 4 cups of sliced peaches with 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon (if desired). Mix gently and pour into the buttered pan.
Cobbler Dough: In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1/2 cup of melted butter, along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Baking: Spoon peaches gently onto the batter/dough and bake uncovered for 1 hour at 350°F (175°C) or until the cobbler is lightly browned.
Serving: Let it cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Wrap and refrigerate leftovers and consume within three days.
Final Thoughts
With these detailed steps, making an easy peach cobbler is straightforward and enjoyable. Customize it to your liking and enjoy the delicious result!