This Old Time Oven Peach Cobbler is a comforting, nostalgic dessert that brings the sweet taste of ripe peaches together with a golden, buttery crust. It’s a classic Southern favorite that’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream during the summer or as a cozy treat during the cooler months. This cobbler is easy to make and delivers all the homey goodness of a traditional peach cobbler straight from the oven.
With juicy peaches and a fluffy, cake-like topping, this cobbler is bursting with flavor and is sure to become a family favorite. The best part? It’s all baked in one pan, making for easy preparation and cleanup. This dessert is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply enjoying on a quiet evening at home.
The key to a great peach cobbler is using ripe, juicy peaches, which add the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness to the dish. The batter rises up around the peaches, creating a beautiful, golden crust with just the right amount of chew. The flavors meld together in the oven, resulting in a rich and flavorful dessert that’s truly satisfying.
Whether you’re new to making cobblers or a seasoned baker, this old-fashioned recipe is straightforward and yields wonderful results every time. Plus, with a few variations, you can customize it to suit your preferences and make it your own. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions for creating this delicious Old Time Oven Peach Cobbler.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 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
- 4 cups sliced peaches (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish and put the dish in the oven to melt the butter as it preheats. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t burn.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Add the milk and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and whisk until a smooth batter forms. The batter should be slightly thick but pourable.
Step 3: Assemble the Cobbler
- Once the butter has melted in the baking dish, carefully remove the dish from the oven.
- Pour the batter evenly over the melted butter. Do not stir—the butter should remain around the edges.
- In a separate bowl, combine the sliced peaches, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg (if using). Stir until the peaches are well coated.
- Spoon the peach mixture evenly over the batter in the baking dish. Again, do not stir. The batter will rise up around the peaches as it bakes, creating a cobbler crust.
Step 4: Bake the Cobbler
- Bake the cobbler in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the batter—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cobbler is ready.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Allow the cobbler to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This will help the filling set and make it easier to serve.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate dessert experience.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Peaches: Fresh peaches are best for this recipe, especially when they are in season. However, canned or frozen peaches will also work. If using canned peaches, be sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid.
- Butter: Melting the butter in the baking dish helps create a rich, buttery base for the cobbler and makes cleanup easier.
- Flavor Enhancements: Adding a pinch of ground nutmeg or even a splash of almond extract can enhance the flavor of the cobbler.
- Baking Dish: Using a glass or ceramic baking dish works best for even heat distribution. Avoid using metal pans, as they can cause uneven browning.
Recipe Variations
- Berry Peach Cobbler: Add 1 cup of fresh or frozen berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries) to the peach mixture for a fruity twist.
- Spiced Peach Cobbler: For a spicier flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger or cardamom along with the cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Gluten-Free Cobbler: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cobbler suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan Peach Cobbler: Replace the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, and use almond milk or another plant-based milk in place of whole milk to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use canned peaches for this recipe?
A: Yes, canned peaches work well for this recipe. Just be sure to drain them thoroughly to prevent the cobbler from becoming too watery.
Q: How do I store leftover cobbler?
A: Store leftover cobbler in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions.
Q: Can I freeze peach cobbler?
A: Yes, you can freeze peach cobbler. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.
Q: What other fruits can I use in this cobbler?
A: You can substitute the peaches with other fruits like apples, plums, or nectarines. You can also use a combination of fruits for a unique flavor.
Q: Why shouldn’t I stir the batter and peaches together?
A: Not stirring the batter and peaches is key to achieving the classic cobbler texture. The batter will rise up around the peaches, creating a cake-like topping with a gooey, fruity filling beneath.
This Old Time Oven Peach Cobbler is a classic dessert that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With its sweet peaches, buttery crust, and warm spices, it’s sure to bring comfort and joy to any table. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just a cozy night at home, this cobbler is guaranteed to be a hit. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat, and watch as everyone comes back for seconds.
Give this recipe a try, and let it become a beloved tradition in your home. The simplicity and flavor of this cobbler are truly timeless, making it a perfect dessert for any season. Enjoy the warmth and sweetness of this old-fashioned favorite, and share it with those you love!
