Old Fashioned Peach Cobbler

Ah, the sweet aroma of peaches wafting through the air! There’s nothing quite like an Old Fashioned Peach Cobbler to transport you back to warm summer days and family gatherings. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of the delicious desserts I enjoyed as a young girl in Southeast Missouri. With no shortcuts involved, the fresh peaches and homemade crust make every minute spent worthwhile. Trust me, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ll find there are never any leftovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Peach season truly is the best time of year, wouldn’t you agree? Whether you’re picking them yourself or buying a box from a local vendor, peaches are the kind of fruit you just can’t get enough of. This particular recipe, handed down by my mom, has been a family favorite for as long as I can remember. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking only a few minutes to assemble, especially if you use homemade canned peaches. This Southern specialty is always a crowd-pleaser, perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or summertime picnics with friends.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Medium bowl
• Pastry blender
• Small bowl
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Large saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin

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 sugar, and salt. Use a pastry blender to work in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and cold water. Sprinkle over the flour mixture and use your hands to form a dough ball. Chill for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Roll out half of the dough to an 1/8 inch thickness and 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 1/2 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 add to the peach mixture. Remove from heat and pour into the baked crust.

Step 4: Roll the remaining dough to a 1/4 inch thickness and cut into half-inch-wide strips. Weave the 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

• Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out and handle.
• Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. If using canned peaches, make sure they are well-drained.
• For a flakier crust, avoid overworking the dough.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Try adding a handful of blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
• Sprinkle some brown sugar on top of the lattice for a caramelized finish.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 320
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen peaches? Yes, you can use frozen peaches. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before use.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this cobbler ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the cobbler in advance and bake it just before serving for the best results.

Conclusion

This Old Fashioned Peach Cobbler is a delightful dessert that brings the taste of summer right to your table. Its simple preparation and mouth-watering flavor make it a must-try for any occasion. I invite you to try this recipe for yourself and share your experiences. Did you add your own twist? Let me know in the comments!