If you’re longing for that warm, comforting dessert that feels like a hug from the past, you have to try this Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler Recipe. It’s a classic Southern treat that wraps juicy, cinnamon-kissed peaches in a golden, tender crust, baking into an irresistible harmony of flavors and textures. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this cobbler offers an authentic taste of nostalgia that’s simply unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of sweetness, warmth, and a tender texture that makes every bite a delight.
- 6 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced: The star of the dish, fresh peaches bring natural sweetness and a juicy burst of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and keeps the peaches from turning brown.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling perfectly without overpowering the fruit.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Provides warm, aromatic depth to the filling.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle spicy note that enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional): Helps thicken the peach filling for a saucier cobbler.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the soft, tender crust that balances the juicy peaches.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust to complement the filling.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Gives the crust a light, airy texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the crust and filling.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps create that golden crust.
- 3/4 cup whole milk: Moistens the crust and contributes to its tender crumb.
- Ground cinnamon (for sprinkling on top): A final touch that adds fragrant warmth and a lovely look.
How to Make Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Peach Filling
In a large bowl, toss together your peeled and sliced peaches with fresh lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This blend wakes up the flavors beautifully, coating each peach slice in a spiced-sweet hug. If you prefer your cobbler filling a bit thicker and less runny, this is the perfect moment to stir in cornstarch. Let this mixture sit for about 15 minutes to meld the flavors and soften the peaches ever so slightly.
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures that your cobbler won’t stick and will come out perfectly golden and bubbly after baking.
Step 3: Make the Crust Batter
Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Then stir in the milk and melted butter just until combined. The batter should look slightly lumpy – that’s exactly what you want because it makes for a light, tender crust in the finished cobbler.
Step 4: Assemble the Cobbler
Pour the crust batter evenly into your greased baking dish. Next, carefully spoon the peach filling right on top, spreading it out gently but without stirring it into the batter. This way, the peaches will bubble up through the crust as it bakes, giving you that perfect cobbler effect.
Step 5: Sprinkle Cinnamon
Lightly dust the top of the peach mixture with ground cinnamon. This simple step adds a wonderful aroma and a touch of sweetness that ties everything together.
Step 6: Bake
Bake your cobbler in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crust turns a beautiful golden brown and the peach filling is bubbling delightfully around the edges. This warm bubbling is the promise of the rich flavors waiting inside.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow your Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler Recipe to cool slightly before serving. This balances the textures and flavors, making it even more enjoyable. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate this timeless dessert into an absolute showstopper.
How to Serve Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of powdered sugar or freshly chopped mint makes for a charming finish. Vanilla ice cream melting over that hot cobbler is an unbeatable classic, adding a creamy contrast against the sweet and spiced peaches.
Side Dishes
Pair this peach cobbler with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk for a delightful balance. For gatherings, serve along with creamy vanilla pudding or a light salad to freshen the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not serve your cobbler in individual ramekins for a personalized touch? Top with toasted pecans or sliced almonds for extra crunch and a bit of nutty flavor variation. You can even experiment by adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a subtle twist that will surprise and delight your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your cobbler has cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy that homemade comfort whenever the craving hits.
Freezing
Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler Recipe freezes amazingly well. To freeze, bake it first, then cool completely before wrapping in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months—simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your cobbler in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until warm and bubbly. If you’re in a hurry, microwaving individual portions works too, but the oven will help keep the crust nicely crisp.
FAQs
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Drained canned peaches work perfectly for this Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler Recipe and are especially convenient when fresh peaches are out of season.
What can I substitute for cornstarch if I don’t have any?
You can use tapioca starch or all-purpose flour as a thickening alternative. Just keep in mind they might slightly change the texture or clarity of the filling.
Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?
Yes, you can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Just make sure it’s suitable for baking, and consider adding a little xanthan gum if the blend doesn’t already include it.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger group?
Definitely! Just use a larger baking dish and increase baking time slightly. Keep an eye on it and bake until the crust is golden and the filling bubbles.
What’s the best way to peel peaches easily?
Blanching peaches in boiling water for about 30 seconds then plunging them into an ice bath makes the skins slip right off. It’s quick and keeps the peach slices intact.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so heartwarming about the Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler Recipe that makes it an instant favorite in any home. With its simple ingredients and irresistible flavors, it’s a dish that brings people together and fills the kitchen with joy. Next time you want to treat yourself or share a slice of tradition, don’t hesitate to whip up this classic cobbler—it’s sure to become a cherished favorite for years to come.
Print
Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler is a classic Southern dessert featuring juicy peaches baked under a sweet, cakey topping with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfectly balanced with a buttery crust and warm spices, it’s a comforting treat that’s easy to prepare and ideal for serving warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 6 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (or use canned peaches, drained)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker filling)
For the crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup whole milk
For topping:
- Ground cinnamon, for sprinkling on top
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches, fresh lemon juice, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. If a thicker filling is desired, stir in the cornstarch. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the whole milk and melted unsalted butter, stirring gently until just combined. The batter will be lumpy; avoid overmixing to ensure a tender crust.
- Assemble the cobbler: Pour the prepared batter evenly into the greased baking dish. Spoon the peach mixture carefully over the batter without stirring, allowing the peaches to rest on top.
- Sprinkle cinnamon: Lightly sprinkle ground cinnamon over the peach filling to add a warm, fragrant touch to the top of the cobbler.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the peach filling begins to bubble around the edges.
- Serve and enjoy: Allow the cobbler to cool slightly before serving. It is best enjoyed warm and pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
- For a thicker filling, do not omit the optional cornstarch.
- Fresh peaches provide the best flavor, but canned peaches can be used as a convenient alternative.
- Allowing the filling to sit after mixing helps intensify the flavor and slightly thickens the mixture.
- This cobbler is delicious when served warm and also reheats well the next day.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use a plant-based butter alternative.
