Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler

Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler is the epitome of a comforting dessert. Bursting with juicy, ripe peaches and topped with a golden, buttery crust, it’s the perfect treat for summer gatherings or a cozy evening indulgence. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable experience.

---

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 9 cups peaches: Peeled, sliced into thin wedges (about 8 fresh peaches, or 3 lbs).
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Balances the sweetness and enhances the peach flavor.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Provides a subtle spice.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Thickens the filling.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.

For the Topping:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for the biscuit topping.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the topping.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the topping rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
• 12 tablespoons butter: Chilled and grated for a flaky crust.
• 1/2 cup boiling water: Brings the dough together.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Adds a caramelized sweetness.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Complements the peach filling.

---

Preparation Time: 25 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Servings: 8

---

Instructions

For the Filling:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches, lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and salt. Stir gently until the peaches are evenly coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

For the Topping:

4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
5. Add the grated butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry cutter or fork to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
6. Gradually stir in the boiling water until a soft dough forms.
7. Drop spoonfuls of the dough over the peach filling, covering as much as possible.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

8. In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over the topping.

Bake:

9. Place the cobbler in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the peach filling is bubbling.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

---

Tips for Success

• Choose Ripe Peaches: Use fresh, ripe peaches for the best flavor. If out of season, frozen peaches can be used (thaw and drain them before use).
• Cold Butter is Key: Ensure the butter is chilled for a flakier topping.
• Prevent a Soggy Bottom: Drain excess juice from overly juicy peaches to keep the cobbler from becoming too watery.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the filling and topping separately a few hours ahead, then assemble and bake when ready.

---

Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler is a classic dessert that brings a touch of southern charm to your table. With its juicy filling and buttery topping, it’s bound to become a family favorite!