Classic Peach Cobbler

A warm, buttery dessert that turns simple pantry staples into golden, bubbling comfort. With a soft cake-like topping, sweet cinnamon-kissed peaches, and a crisp sugary crust, this old-fashioned cobbler is pure Southern charm in every bite. Made with canned peaches for year-round ease, it’s the easiest way to enjoy homemade pie-style flavor without the fuss.


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just dessert—it’s comfort on a spoon. Inspired by Depression-era kitchens and Southern home cooking, this cobbler uses self-rising flour and canned peaches to create something magical: a golden, cakey top layer that bakes up crisp and sweet, while the peach filling simmers below in its own syrupy goodness. No mixer needed. No rolling pin. Just stir, pour, and bake.


Perfect for:


Weeknight treats

Holiday dinners (especially Thanksgiving or Fourth of July)

Make-ahead desserts

Feeding a crowd with minimal effort

🍑 "I made this after work," said one home cook. "My kids called it ‘peach cake’ and asked if we could have it for breakfast!" 


Ingredients

For the Cobbler Base & Topping

1 cup (120g) self-rising flour (do not substitute all-purpose unless adjusting for leavening)

½ cup (1 stick / 115g) unsalted butter, melted

¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar, divided

¼ tsp ground cinnamon, optional (for warmth)

For the Peach Filling

1 (9 oz) can sliced peaches in heavy syrup, undrained (about 1½ cups total)

For Serving (Optional but Recommended!)

Extra granulated sugar, for dusting

A pinch of cinnamon, for sprinkling

Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

2. Create the Buttery Base

Pour melted butter into the prepared dish.

Tilt and rotate to coat the bottom evenly—this creates a rich, caramelized layer as it bakes.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl:


Combine self-rising flour, ¾ cup sugar, and cinnamon (if using). Whisk well to blend.

✅ No whisk? Use a fork or spoon—just mix thoroughly. 


4. Assemble (Don’t Stir!)

Sprinkle the flour-sugar mixture evenly over the melted butter.

❗ Do not stir —the layers will naturally combine during baking. 

5. Add Peaches & Syrup

Open the can and pour peaches and syrup directly over the dry mix.

Spread gently with a spatula if needed—but again, don’t stir.

6. Bake Until Golden & Bubbling

Place dish in oven and bake 45–50 minutes, until:

Top is deep golden brown and crisp

Edges are bubbling

Center is set (no wet batter)

✅ Check at 40 mins —ovens vary. Tent with foil if browning too fast. 


7. Cool Slightly & Serve Warm

Remove from oven and let rest 5–10 minutes—this helps the filling thicken slightly.

While still warm, sprinkle lightly with extra sugar (and cinnamon, if desired).

Serve hot or warm, ideally with:


A scoop of vanilla ice cream (the classic pairing!)

Or a dollop of whipped cream

You Must Know

Use self-rising flour —it contains baking powder and salt; all-purpose won’t rise properly without adjustments.

Don’t stir the layers —the magic happens as they bake together.

Undrained peaches add sweetness and moisture —perfect for texture.

Let it rest before serving —hot cobbler = runny slices.

Tastes even better the next day!

Storage Tips

Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat in oven at 325°F for 10–12 minutes (best texture). Microwave works but may soften crust.

Freeze for up to 3 months —thaw overnight before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

Self-rising flour

Mix: 1 cup AP flour + 1½ tsp baking powder + ¼ tsp salt

DIY version

Canned peaches

Fresh sliced peaches + ¼ cup sugar + 2 tbsp water

Simmer 5 mins first

Sugar

Coconut sugar or maple syrup (in dry mix only)

Adjust amount

Butter

Ghee or plant-based butter

For dairy-free option

Cinnamon

Nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice

For different warmth


Serving Suggestions

Serve family-style on a platter with ice cream melting into every bite.

Great for potlucks—bring the whole pan!

Double the batch and freeze half for future comfort.

Pair with sweet tea or coffee.

Cultural Context

Born in rural American kitchens, peach cobbler is a symbol of resourcefulness and generosity. Found at church suppers, family reunions, and front-porch gatherings alike, it honors tradition with simplicity: fruit, flour, sugar, and love. This version—made with canned peaches and no crust—reflects the true spirit of cobbler: humble ingredients transformed into something deeply satisfying.


Pro Tips

Double the recipe? Yes—perfect for large families or freezing.

Want more spice? Add ¼ tsp nutmeg or a splash of vanilla to the peaches.

Make ahead: Assemble 1–2 days in advance. Refrigerate and bake when ready (+5 mins).

Label your dish: People will ask for the recipe.

Say “ready?” before serving —it’s part of the ritual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen peaches?

A: Yes! Thaw and drain slightly, then use with 2–3 tbsp syrup or water.


Q: Why didn’t my topping rise?

A: Likely expired self-rising flour. Check the date or make your own blend.


Q: Is this gluten-free?

A: Only if using GF self-rising flour blend (check label).


Q: Can I make it in a cast iron skillet?

A: Absolutely! Grease well and bake same time/temp—adds rustic charm.


Q: Can I add berries or apples?

A: Yes! Mix in raspberries, blackberries, or diced apples with the peaches.


Allergy Information

Contains: dairy (butter), wheat (flour).

Gluten-free option: Use certified GF self-rising flour.

Nut-free: This recipe is naturally nut-free.

Always check labels—especially on pre-made ingredients and extracts.


Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)

Based on 8 servings


Calories: 280

Fat: 11g

Saturated Fat: 7g

Carbohydrates: 44g

Fiber: 1g

Sugar: 28g

Protein: 3g

Sodium: 180mg

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on brands and substitutions. Not intended as medical advice. 


Final Thought: This cobbler doesn’t shout. It emerges golden from the oven, bubbling and fragrant, saying everything a great dessert should: “Scoop me. Share me. This is good.” That’s how the best ones begin—not with silence, but with peaches, patience, and someone who says, “Let’s make it together.”