Step 1: Prepare the Peach Filling
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced peaches, sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Stir gently until the peaches are evenly coated.
- Transfer to baking dish: Pour the peach mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Biscuit Topping
- Combine dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or forks to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the wet ingredients: Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract until just combined. Do not overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.
Step 3: Assemble the Cobbler
- Drop the dough: Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough over the peach filling, spreading it out slightly but leaving some gaps for the filling to bubble through.
- Brush with melted butter: Brush the top of the biscuit dough with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar if desired.
Step 4: Bake the Cobbler
- Bake: Place the cobbler in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool slightly: Remove the cobbler from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve warm: Serve the fresh Southern peach cobbler warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if desired. Enjoy this comforting and delicious dessert!
Tips for Perfect Peach Cobbler
- Use ripe peaches: Choose ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor and texture.
- Keep the butter cold: Cold butter creates a flakier biscuit topping, so handle it as little as possible to keep it from warming up.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste the peach filling before baking and adjust the sugar to your preference if needed.
- Serve immediately: Peach cobbler is best enjoyed fresh and warm from the oven.
Conclusion
Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler is a classic and comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe ensures a delicious combination of sweet, juicy peaches and a buttery, golden biscuit topping. Enjoy making and savoring this delightful cobbler with your family and friends!