If there’s one dessert that embodies summer nostalgia and pure Southern comfort, it’s the Best Peach Cobbler Recipe in Cast Iron Skillet. Succulent, sun-ripened peaches nestle beneath a cloud of buttery, golden topping, bubbling away in a beloved skillet that bakes everything just right. Every spoonful delivers plush fruit, a hint of spice, and a biscuit-like crown practically begging for a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This is truly a recipe to return to year after year, whether you’re picking fresh peaches at their peak or cozying up with frozen slices in the off-season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish is a celebration of simple, honest ingredients that come together with a little Southern magic. Each element plays an important role in creating the taste, aroma, and irresistible texture that makes this cobbler absolutely unforgettable.
- Peaches: 6 cups fresh or frozen sliced peaches give the cobbler its juicy, sunny essence and classic flavor; peel fresh fruit for the smoothest filling.
- Granulated Sugar: 1 cup, divided; some sweetens the peaches, some the batter, for balanced flavor and a lovely golden crust.
- Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup brings molasses depth and a gentle hint of caramel to the fruit mixture.
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon brightens and balances the sweetness, making the peaches pop.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon infuses warm, bakery fragrance throughout both fruit and batter.
- Ground Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon adds a cozy spice, turning summer fruit into a homey dessert.
- Ground Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon layers a subtle nutty note for an old-fashioned twist.
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup forms the tender, cake-like topping that soaks in peach juices as it bakes.
- Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons give the batter lightness and rise for that perfect golden dome.
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon enhances every flavor without making things taste salty.
- Whole Milk: 1 cup brings richness and just the right consistency to the batter.
- Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup, melted, for luscious flavor and a buttery finish to every bite.
- Vanilla Ice Cream (optional): The classic pairing; a scoop on top makes each serving swoon-worthy.
How to Make Best Peach Cobbler Recipe in Cast Iron Skillet
Step 1: Prepare the Peaches
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) for the perfect bake. In your trusted 10- to 12-inch cast iron skillet, add the sliced peaches, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, the brown sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Place the skillet over medium heat and let the magic happen for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the peaches are soft and their juices are bubbling in a sweet, syrupy bath. Remove from heat, but resist the urge to dig in just yet—the best is yet to come!
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Give everything a quick whisk to distribute the rise-makers and seasoning evenly. Gently pour in the milk and stir just until a thick batter forms. Don’t overmix—it should look a little lumpy, which promises a tender crumb after baking.
Step 3: Assemble the Cobbler
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the peaches in your skillet. Now, carefully spoon the batter over the juicy fruit, covering as much as you can but not worrying if some peaches peek through (those bits will caramelize beautifully). It’s important not to stir or spread aggressively; the batter is meant to float above the fruit, forming a golden-topped island as it bakes. This step is pure Southern alchemy!
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Slide the whole skillet into the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The best peach cobbler recipe in cast iron skillet is ready when the top is beautifully golden and cooked through, with peachy bubbles peeking around the edges. Set the skillet on a rack and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving, allowing the juices to thicken and the aromas to fully develop.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
Scoop big, warm servings into bowls and—if you really want to level up—add a generous dollop of vanilla ice cream on top. The contrast of warm cobbler and cold cream is absolutely irresistible and says “homemade hospitality” like nothing else.
How to Serve Best Peach Cobbler Recipe in Cast Iron Skillet
Garnishes
The Best Peach Cobbler Recipe in Cast Iron Skillet is just about perfect on its own, but a thoughtful garnish makes it downright dreamy. Classic vanilla ice cream is a beloved pairing, melting over the warm cobbler into a creamy river. Alternatively, a dollop of softly whipped cream or a sprinkle of raw sugar right before baking can add extra sparkle and crunch.
Side Dishes
This cobbler shines as the finale of a backyard barbecue, Sunday supper, or holiday feast. Pair it with a simple pitcher of sweet iced tea, fresh fruit salad, or even a sharp cheddar cheese for a lovely contrast to the cobbler’s sweetness. Its homey spirit also makes it a champion alongside other Southern favorites like fried chicken or pulled pork.
Creative Ways to Present
Lean into the rustic appeal by serving straight from the cast iron skillet at the table—family-style is always charming! For more formal occasions, you can scoop into small mason jars or ramekins for individual servings. Or, top with a handful of toasted pecans or granola for a textural twist nobody will see coming.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Have leftovers (or planning ahead for easy desserts all week)? Simply let the cobbler cool to room temperature, then cover the skillet tightly with foil or transfer portions to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, the Best Peach Cobbler Recipe in Cast Iron Skillet will keep beautifully for three to four days, making it just as delightful the next night.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze your cobbler for future cravings, portion it into freezer-safe containers after it’s cooled. It keeps well in the freezer for up to three months. For best texture, I recommend freezing before adding any ice cream or toppings.
Reheating
To reheat, bring refrigerated or thawed cobbler back to life by warming individual portions in the microwave or the whole skillet in a 325°F oven until heated through. Just remember: add the ice cream or whipped cream only after it’s hot and ready to serve for that perfect contrast of temperatures.
FAQs
Do I have to use fresh peaches for the Best Peach Cobbler Recipe in Cast Iron Skillet?
No worries if fresh peaches aren’t in season! You can use frozen (thawed and drained) or even canned (drained) peaches. The flavor will be delicious, and your cobbler will still have that classic, craveable taste.
What kind of skillet works best?
A 10- to 12-inch cast iron skillet is the traditional choice because it delivers even heat and helps caramelize the fruit and crisp the topping. If you don’t have one, an oven-safe baking dish will work in a pinch, but the skillet really elevates the whole experience.
How do I tell when the cobbler is done baking?
The top should be deeply golden brown and the peach syrup bubbling eagerly at the edges. To double-check, gently insert a toothpick in the center of the topping. If it comes out clean, your cobbler is finished!
Can this recipe be made in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the fruit mixture and the batter separately, then keep them refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, bring everything to room temperature, assemble in the skillet, and bake as directed.
Is it possible to make the Best Peach Cobbler Recipe in Cast Iron Skillet gluten-free?
Yes—it’s easy to substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. Just be sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well, and your cobbler will turn out just as luscious and comforting.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that wraps you in warmth and delivers the sweet taste of summer all year round, the Best Peach Cobbler Recipe in Cast Iron Skillet is the answer. Whether you bake it for a crowd or sneak spoonfuls for yourself, there’s nothing quite like this timeless treat. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite tradition!
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Best Peach Cobbler Recipe in Cast Iron Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of the South with this Best Peach Cobbler Recipe in a Cast Iron Skillet. A classic dessert that marries sweet peaches with a buttery biscuit topping, this cobbler is best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
Filling:
- 6 cups fresh or frozen sliced peaches (peeled if fresh)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: vanilla ice cream for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Skillet: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 10- to 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat, combine peaches, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook until soft.
- Prepare Batter: In a bowl, mix flour, remaining 1/2 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk. Pour melted butter over peaches, then spoon batter on top.
- Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden. Let cool for 10 minutes. Serve warm with ice cream.
Notes
- If using frozen peaches, thaw and drain before using.
- You can substitute canned peaches (drained) in a pinch.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle raw sugar on top before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
