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There’s something truly comforting about a classic Old Fashioned Peach Cobbler. This delightful dessert brings back fond memories of my childhood in Southeast Missouri, where peach season was the highlight of the year. Imagine juicy peaches nestled in a homemade crust, served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top. No wonder there are never any leftovers!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This peach cobbler is a Southern classic that’s sure to impress at any gathering. Whether it’s a holiday dinner, a family reunion, or a summer picnic, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser. With its simple preparation and rich flavors, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowl
- Pastry blender
- Small whisk
- Rolling pin
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large saucepan
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons white sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shortening
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup cold water
- 3 pounds fresh peaches – peeled, pitted, and sliced
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- ¾ cup orange juice
- ½ cup butter
- 2 cups white sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon white sugar
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, 3 tablespoons of sugar, and salt. Use a pastry blender to work in the shortening until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. In a small bowl, whisk the egg with cold water. Sprinkle this over the flour mixture and use your hands to form the dough into a ball. Chill for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out half of the dough to a 1/8 inch thickness. Place it in a 9×13 inch baking dish, covering the bottom and halfway up the sides. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 3: In a large saucepan, combine the peaches, lemon juice, and orange juice. Add ½ cup of butter and cook over medium-low heat until the butter is melted. In a mixing bowl, stir together 2 cups of sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cornstarch; then mix it into the peach mixture. Remove from heat and pour the mixture into the baked crust.
Step 4: Roll out the remaining dough to a 1/4 inch thickness and cut into half-inch-wide strips. Weave these strips into a lattice over the peaches. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of sugar and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of melted butter.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top crust is golden brown.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the dough is well chilled before rolling out to prevent it from becoming too sticky.
- Fresh peaches work best for this recipe, but canned peaches can be used in a pinch.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For a twist, try adding a handful of raspberries to the peach mixture.
- Use brown sugar instead of white sugar for a deeper flavor.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350
- Fat: ~18g
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Protein: ~3g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen peaches? Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare the cobbler and keep it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving for best results.
Conclusion
I hope this Old Fashioned Peach Cobbler brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate peach season and create lasting memories with loved ones. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experiences with me. Happy baking!
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