Super Easy Peach Cobbler

This peach cobbler has been my go-to dessert recipe for years, and for good reason. The first time I made it was during a last-minute dinner party when I needed something sweet but had minimal time and ingredients. The simplicity of it almost made me skeptical, but that first bite convinced me I'd found a keeper. The magic happens in the oven as the batter rises up through the butter and around the peaches, creating this perfect cakey-yet-gooey texture that's simply irresistible.

Last summer, I taught my 10-year-old nephew how to make this, and he now considers himself the family's "cobbler expert." He's made it for three family gatherings, and my sister says it's the only dessert he'll willingly help with in the kitchen.

Simple Ingredients

• Butter: Use real butter here, not margarine. That rich buttery flavor is key to this cobbler's success.
• Canned peaches: The convenience factor is huge, but fresh peaches work beautifully when they're in season. Just peel, slice, and add a bit of sugar if they're tart.
• Sugar: Plain white granulated sugar lets the peach flavor shine. You could reduce it slightly if your sweet tooth isn't as demanding as mine.
• Self-rising flour: The recipe calls for regular flour plus baking powder, but self-rising flour works perfectly if that's what you have on hand.
• Milk: Whole milk gives the richest flavor, but I've made it with 2% and even almond milk in a pinch.

Pin it

Cobbler Magic

Butter melting method

Put your baking dish in the oven while it preheats to melt the butter. This saves time and ensures the butter is hot when you add the batter, which is key to that crispy edge formation.

The no-stir rule

Don't stir after pouring the batter over the butter! This seems counterintuitive, but it's what creates that perfect layered effect as it bakes.

Peach placement

Distribute the peaches evenly over the top. They'll sink a bit during baking, but wherever you place them will affect the final look and flavor distribution.

Edge checking

You'll know it's done when the edges are golden brown and pulling away slightly from the sides of the dish. The center might still look a bit soft, but it will set as it cools.

Cooling time

Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. I know it's tempting to dig in right away, but giving it a little time allows the layers to set properly.

Pan choice matters

An 8×8 square dish gives the perfect thickness. A larger pan will result in a thinner cobbler that cooks faster, so adjust your time accordingly.

The first time I made this for my mother-in-law, she asked for the recipe, certain I was holding back some secret ingredient or technique. She couldn't believe something so delicious could be so simple. Now it's her go-to dessert when she needs to bring something to church functions. She always comes home with an empty dish and recipe requests.

Serving Ideas

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the classic experience. For breakfast (yes, I said breakfast), skip the ice cream and add a dollop of Greek yogurt instead. During the holidays, add a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg to the batter for a festive twist.

Tasty Twists

Try using different canned fruits like cherries or mixed berries for variety. Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter for extra flavor depth. For a bit of crunch, sprinkle the top with coarse sugar before baking.

Storage Smarts

This cobbler keeps well on the counter, covered with foil, for about 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. It's delicious cold straight from the fridge, but I prefer reheating individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds until warm.

Pin it

I've made this super easy peach cobbler for countless family dinners, potlucks, and last-minute dessert emergencies. Its simplicity is its strength - no fancy techniques or special equipment required, just a handful of basic ingredients that transform into something truly special in the oven. There's something almost magical about how such a simple recipe can create distinct layers of buttery goodness, cake-like center, and fruity topping. It's the dessert I turn to when I want guaranteed smiles around the table.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh peaches?

Yes, substitute about 2 cups of sliced fresh peaches. Add 1/4 cup sugar to fresh peaches if they're not very sweet.

→ Why not stir the ingredients together?

The layering without stirring creates the cobbler's signature texture as the batter rises through the fruit.

→ Can I use other fruits?

Yes, try berries, cherries, apples, or a mixture of fruits. Drain canned fruits well before using.

→ Do I need to grease the baking dish?

No, the melted butter in the bottom prevents sticking.

→ How do I serve this?

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a classic dessert.