Southern Peach Cobbler Recipe

If there’s a treat that makes summer sing, it’s got to be Southern Peach Cobbler. This homey dessert wraps perfectly spiced, bubbling peaches in a blanket of golden biscuit topping, scented with vanilla and a whisper of almond. Whether you’re serving it up warm from the oven or dishing out cold leftovers for breakfast (no judgment here!), the flavors and aroma are pure Southern comfort. Today, we’re diving into how to make the ultimate Southern Peach Cobbler at home—get ready for juicy fruit, cinnamony goodness, and that signature cobbler crust that just begs for a scoop of ice cream!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Southern Peach Cobbler is refreshingly simple—just a handful of pantry staples and juicy peaches. Each item adds its own magic, so let’s break down what you’ll need and why it matters.

• Frozen peaches (2 bags, 20 oz each): Reliable and delicious any time of year, frozen peaches provide the perfect sweet-tart base for the cobbler.
• Granulated sugar (1 cup for filling + ½ cup for topping + 3 tbsp for dusting): Sweetens both the fruit and biscuit crust, helping the peaches become syrupy and golden.
• Brown sugar (1 cup for filling + ½ cup for topping): Lends a rich, caramelly note and deep color to the peach filling and cobbler dough.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds warmth and a soft floral note that’s classic in Southern desserts.
• Almond extract (½ tsp, optional but recommended): Brings out the flavor of peaches with an extra hint of nostalgia.
• Cinnamon (½ tbsp for filling + 1 tbsp for topping, with ½ reserved for garnish): Infuses the cobbler with cozy spice and beautiful color.
• Nutmeg (½ tsp): Gives a little extra zing and spice to the fruit filling—just enough to notice.
• Corn starch (2 tsp): Thickens up those sweet peach juices so every bite is luscious, not runny.
• Cream of tartar (1 tsp): Subtly tenderizes the topping and balances sweetness with a hint of tang.
• Butter unsalted (½ stick for filling at room temp + 1 stick for cold topping): Rich buttery flavor is key to both the gooey peaches and the crisp, tender crust.
• Water (2 tbsp for filling + ¼ cup boiling for topping): Moistens the filling and helps the biscuit dough come together just right.
• Fresh lemon juice (1 tsp): Freshens the peaches, brightens the filling, and keeps flavors balanced.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups for topping): Gives structure and heft to the cobbler crust—don’t substitute here!
• Baking powder (2 tsp): Makes the biscuit topping rise tall and fluffy in the oven.
• Salt (½ tsp): Rounds out all the sweetness for a perfect, craveable bite.

How to Make Southern Peach Cobbler

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit—the perfect temperature for bubbly peaches and a golden topping. Give your 9×13 baking dish a good spray with non-stick spray so nothing sticks, then you’re ready to build flavor right in the pan.

Step 2: Mix the Peach Filling

In the prepared dish, add your frozen peaches along with both the white and brown sugars, vanilla, almond extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, corn starch, cream of tartar, softened butter, water, and lemon juice. Use a big spoon (or just your clean hands) to mix everything together until the peaches are evenly coated and the mixture looks glossy and well combined. Cover the dish with foil, pop it in the oven, and bake for 20 minutes. This step melts the sugars, lets the peaches release their juices, and starts building that deep, syrupy flavor Southern Peach Cobbler is famous for.

Step 3: Prepare the Cobbler Topping

While the peaches bake, it’s topping time! In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, both sugars, baking powder, salt, and half of the cinnamon. Now add the cold stick of butter, cutting it in with a pastry cutter or breaking it up with your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs or wet sand. Pour in the boiling water and stir just until combined—you’re looking for a drop biscuit-like texture that’s soft and a little shaggy. Don’t overmix; those little bits of butter make the topping super tender.

Step 4: Top the Peaches and Sprinkle

After the peaches have had their initial bake, gently spoon the cobbler dough over the hot fruit. For classic Southern cobbler character, make each dollop about the size of a golf ball and leave a little space between them so the peaches can bubble up. Combine 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar with the remaining half-tablespoon cinnamon and sprinkle generously over the dough. This sweet-spicy crunch is pure magic as it bakes!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Return the dish to the oven, uncovered this time, and bake for another 30 to 45 minutes. Check after 30 minutes—what you want is a crust that’s beautifully golden brown and baked through, with bubbling peach syrup peeking out. Pull it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes (if you can resist!). Your kitchen should smell like a sweet Georgia orchard at this point—welcome to Southern Peach Cobbler heaven.

How to Serve Southern Peach Cobbler

Garnishes

A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting over the warm cobbler is a downright dreamy pairing. If you’re looking to keep things classic, a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream is just as lovely. Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or a handful of toasted sliced almonds on top for a pretty, aromatic finish that makes this Southern Peach Cobbler a real showstopper.

Side Dishes

Pair your cobbler with refreshments that balance its sweetness, like tall mason jars of iced tea or lemonade. For a luxurious brunch, try serving alongside a stack of buttermilk pancakes or a platter of fresh berries. The cobbler works equally well as a warm comfort-food dessert for a holiday meal or a casual backyard barbecue.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting or want to impress, try baking Southern Peach Cobbler in individual ramekins for personal servings. You can also spoon it into small mason jars for picnics or party favors. Another fun twist is to top your cobbler with a sprinkle of cardamom or swap out a portion of the peaches for other summer fruits like blackberries for a Southern spin on a mixed fruit cobbler.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Southern Peach Cobbler holds up beautifully at room temperature for several hours, but for longer storage, cover the dish tightly and refrigerate. The biscuit topping will soften a bit as it sits, but the flavors become even more luscious. Leftovers will stay good in the fridge for up to four days—if you can make it last that long!

Freezing

This cobbler is freezer-friendly, making it a great make-ahead treat. Once completely cooled, wrap your cobbler tightly in foil or transfer to an airtight container. Freeze for up to three months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat for a taste of summer whenever you crave it.

Reheating

To restore that fresh-from-the-oven quality, reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 30–45 seconds, or warm the whole dish, uncovered, in a 325-degree oven until heated through and bubbly. For extra crisp topping, you can sprinkle a fresh dusting of cinnamon sugar before reheating in the oven.

FAQs

Can I use fresh peaches instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If your farmers market haul is bursting with ripe peaches, go for it. Just peel and slice about 8 to 10 cups of peaches, and use them as you would the frozen ones, adjusting the sugar slightly if the fruit is especially sweet or tart.

Do I have to use almond extract?

No, but it’s highly recommended! Almond extract isn’t overpowering here—it simply brings out the peach flavor and adds a special, homey aroma that’s pretty much Southern Peach Cobbler secret sauce. If you don’t have any, vanilla alone will still deliver a delicious result.

Can I prepare Southern Peach Cobbler ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the cobbler up to the point before baking and keep it covered in the fridge for a few hours. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed. You can also bake it in advance, refrigerate, and gently reheat before serving.

Why is my cobbler topping soggy?

Most likely, the cobbler didn’t bake quite long enough or the peach layer was extra juicy. Be sure to bake uncovered until the topping is well-browned and firm. Leaving space between the biscuit dollops also lets steam escape and prevents soggy spots!

Is there a gluten-free version?

You can make this Southern Peach Cobbler gluten-free by swapping the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Keep in mind that different blends may affect the texture slightly, but the cobbler will still be downright irresistible.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a quintessential taste of Southern hospitality, look no further than Southern Peach Cobbler. Every bubbling, aromatic bite brings warmth, nostalgia, and a touch of summer sunshine to your table. Don’t hesitate—grab those peaches and give this recipe a try. I know it’ll become a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine!

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