GEORGIA PEACH COBBLER

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If there’s one dessert that defines summer, it’s absolutely peach cobbler. Top that cobbler with a scoop of cool vanilla ice cream, and I’m immediately taken back to summers on my grandmother’s porch, a big bowl of cobbler in my hand with sweet vanilla slowly melting over top of the warm peaches. It’s funny how food can trigger memories, and this is one of those dishes that takes me back to those carefree summer days when I was a kid. Grandma wasn’t fussy about her ingredients, except for using fresh peaches, so it was our job to run down to the farmer’s market to pick up a bushel of fresh peaches. We’d come home and disappear off into the yard while grandma worked her magic.

There’s nothing like a little bit of nostalgia to inspire a delicious dish, and we thought, with the season warming up, and farmers markets once again pulling into town, that it was high time for one of Grandma’s classic peach cobblers. I pretty much know the recipe by heart, so there’s almost no need to pull out the recipe box. Fresh peaches really are the key ingredient here, so when they’re in season, we use nothing else. A quick dip in boiling water then another ice cold bath will help loosen the skin, making the peeling process much easier. Instead of using just granulated sugar, we love to add brown sugar to the mix because it adds a great, almost caramel flavor to the dish as a whole. As each layer of ingredients is added to the baking dish, there’s a hard and fast “no stir” rule; the ingredients will come together on their own during the baking process.

As the cobbler bakes, our kitchen is filled with the aroma of sweet warm peaches, and we can hardly wait for it to cool down enough for everyone to dive in. Whenever possible, I also like to whip up a batch of homemade vanilla ice cream, but a good quality store-bought brand will absolutely do the trick; vanilla bean is a big favorite in our house. But ice cream really isn’t required; this is a dish that stands up on its own, no additional “flare” required. This peach cobbler is absolutely irresistible, and one that we know will be in the family for a long time to come!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Georgia Peach Cobbler is the epitome of summer desserts. It’s easy to make, bursting with fresh peach flavor, and the golden crust is simply divine. Whether you serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy it on its own, this cobbler is a crowd-pleaser.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large pot
• Slotted spoon
• Saucepan
• Paring knife
• Mixing bowls
• Oven

Ingredients

• 8 fresh peaches, peeled and sliced
• Juice from ½ small lemon
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 pinch salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Pour the melted butter into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Place the peaches in a pot of boiling water for 30 seconds. Turn off the heat and, using a slotted spoon, transfer the peaches to a bowl of ice water. Once cool enough to handle, remove the skins with a paring knife. Slice the peaches and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt, stirring until well blended.
4. Slowly stir in the milk until the mixture comes together into a batter. Pour the batter over the butter in the baking dish.
5. In a saucepan, combine the peaches, cinnamon, brown sugar, vanilla, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently. Turn off the heat and pour the peaches over the batter.
6. Bake for 40 minutes or until the top crust has become a golden brown color.

Tips for Success

• Use ripe, fresh peaches for the best flavor.
• Ensure the oven is preheated to ensure even cooking.
• Remember not to stir the batter and peaches once they are in the baking dish.

Additional Tips or Variations

Try adding a pinch of nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor. For a twist, consider adding a handful of blueberries or raspberries to the peach mixture.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each serving of peach cobbler offers a delightful balance of carbohydrates, sugars from the peaches and sugars, and fats from the butter, making it a comforting treat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use canned peaches?

While fresh peaches are recommended for the best flavor and texture, canned peaches can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well before using.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Conclusion

This Georgia Peach Cobbler is a nostalgic trip back to those lazy summer days filled with the aroma of fresh peaches and the warmth of family gatherings. I invite you to try this recipe and share your experiences with us. Don’t forget to enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate summer dessert experience!

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