Peach cobbler
Few things invoke the warmth and comfort of traditional Southern cuisine quite like a good peach cobbler. This delightful dessert has been a staple of southern cooking for generations, and it’s not hard to see why. With its combination of sweet, juicy peaches, warm cinnamon notes, and crumbly, buttery crust, it’s a treat that’s as delicious as it is satisfying.
What sets a truly great peach cobbler apart from the rest is the quality of the ingredients and the love that goes into making it. It’s not just a matter of throwing a bunch of ingredients into a pan – it’s about taking the time to source the best possible peaches, combining them with just the right blend of spices, and carefully mixing together the perfect crust to complement the juiciness of the fruit.
For anyone looking to make a delicious Southern peach cobbler, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First and foremost, it’s important to choose the right variety of peach. The ideal peach for cobbler is one that’s sweet and juicy, with a tender texture and delicate flavor. Some popular varieties include Elberta, Red Haven, and Hale.
Once you’ve got your peaches sorted, it’s time to start thinking about the crust. The perfect crust for peach cobbler is one that’s buttery and crumbly, with just a touch of sweetness to balance out the tartness of the fruit. It’s important to use good quality flour and to take care not to over-handle the dough, as this can result in a tough, chewy crust.
Another important consideration when making peach cobbler is the balance of spices. Cinnamon is a classic choice for this dessert, as it pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the peaches. Nutmeg and ginger are also common additions, and some recipes even call for a dash of lemon juice to add a touch of tartness.
Of course, no discussion of peach cobbler would be complete without mentioning the all-important topping. Some recipes call for a biscuit-style topping, while others use a crumbly streusel. Either way, the goal is to create a delicious, golden brown topping that complements the juicy, succulent peaches underneath.
When it comes to making a Southern peach cobbler that truly stands out from the crowd, attention to detail is key. From sourcing the perfect peaches to mixing together the perfect crust and topping, every step of the process matters. But with a little practice and a lot of love, anyone can create a delicious, classic peach cobbler that’s sure to become a favorite in any household.
Ingredients:
- 6-8 fresh peaches, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Whipped cream or ice cream for serving
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
- In an 8x8 inch baking dish, pour the melted butter and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the milk and vanilla extract, stir until well combined. Pour the mixture into the baking dish over the melted butter.
- In a small bowl, mix together the cornstarch, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Sprinkle the mixture over the batter in the baking dish.
- Arrange the peach slices evenly over the batter.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cobbler is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream on top. Enjoy!