GRANDMA’s Fresh Peach Cobbler

Nestled within the pages of a well-worn family cookbook or perhaps scribbled on a faded piece of paper tucked into a kitchen drawer, you might find the secret to a dessert that has been the centerpiece of family gatherings and warm summer evenings: Grandma’s Fresh Peach Cobbler. This recipe, a testament to simplicity and tradition, transforms humble ingredients into a dish that is far greater than the sum of its parts. It’s a recipe handed down through generations, each cook adding their own touch but always respecting the core of what makes it special: ripe peaches enveloped in a tender, buttery crust.

Making this peach cobbler is like taking a step back in time. As you melt the butter and slice the peaches, you can’t help but feel connected to the many hands that have prepared this dish before you. The aroma of baking peaches and sugar fills the air, a prelude to the joy and comfort that this dessert brings. It’s a reminder of summer days spent in the company of loved ones, of laughter echoing through the kitchen, and of the sweet satisfaction that comes from enjoying a homemade dessert.

Grandma’s Fresh Peach Cobbler is more than just a recipe; it’s a treasure trove of memories and a beacon of familial love. It teaches us that some of the best moments in life are shared around the dining table, with generous servings of comfort food. As the golden crust of the cobbler breaks to reveal the juicy, sweet peaches underneath, it’s clear that this dish is a celebration of simplicity, of seasonality, and of the joy that comes from cooking and eating together.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup melted butter: Unsalted butter is preferable as it allows you to control the amount of salt in your cobbler.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Spooned and leveled for accuracy.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar, plus another 3/4 cup for sprinkling: The sugar not only sweetens the batter and peaches but also helps create a delightful crust.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: This is what gives the cobbler its rise and fluffy texture.
• 3/4 cup milk: Any kind of milk will work, but whole milk is recommended for a richer taste.
• 5-6 peaches, sliced: Fresh, ripe peaches are ideal for the best flavor. Peel them for a smoother texture in your cobbler.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake.
2. Prepare the Baking Pan: Pour the 1/4 cup of melted butter into an 8×8 inch baking pan. Tilt the pan around to make sure the butter coats the bottom and sides. This prevents sticking and adds a lovely buttery flavor to the cobbler.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar. Add in 2 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt (if your butter is unsalted). The salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
4. Combine with Milk: Pour in 3/4 cup of milk and stir until you have a smooth batter. There might be a few lumps, but that’s okay. The batter will be fairly thin.
5. Assemble the Cobbler: Pour the batter over the melted butter in the pan. Do not stir. Evenly distribute the sliced peaches over the batter. Again, do not stir; the batter will rise around the peaches during baking.
6. Add More Sugar: Sprinkle the remaining 3/4 cup of granulated sugar over the peaches. This might seem like a lot, but it helps create a deliciously sweet top crust.
7. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the batter has risen to the top and set. The exact time may vary based on your oven and the juiciness of your peaches.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cobbler to cool slightly before serving. It’s delicious on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

Tips and Variations

• Peach Skins: Peeling the peaches is optional. The skins add color and texture, but some prefer their cobbler without them.
• Sweetness Adjustment: If your peaches are very sweet, you can reduce the amount of sugar sprinkled on top.
• Serving: This cobbler is best served warm. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the microwave.
• Variations: Feel free to add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter or peaches for extra flavor. A teaspoon of vanilla extract mixed into the batter can also add depth.

By following these expanded instructions and tips, you’ll be able to make a peach cobbler that’s not only delicious but also brings back all the warm, nostalgic feelings of Grandma’s cooking.