Description
This Classic Southern Fruit Cobbler is a warm, comforting dessert featuring a mixed fresh or frozen fruit filling topped with a tender, golden batter. Perfect for showcasing seasonal fruits like peaches or berries, this cobbler is simple to prepare and baked to perfection, making it an ideal treat for family gatherings or cozy evenings.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit Filling
- 4 cups fresh or frozen fruit (such as peaches, berries, or a mix)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup milk
Topping (Optional)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a casserole dish of similar size to prevent sticking.
- Macerate the Fruit: In a medium bowl, toss the fresh or frozen fruit with ¼ cup of the sugar and the lemon juice. Let it sit to macerate, which helps release the fruit’s juices and enhances flavor while you prepare the batter.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining ½ cup sugar, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour the milk and melted butter into the dry ingredients. Stir just until everything is combined, being careful not to overmix to ensure a tender cobbler topping.
- Assemble Batter: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out smoothly.
- Add Fruit Topping: Spoon the fruit mixture along with its juices evenly over the batter. Do not stir; the batter will rise around the fruit as it bakes, creating a wonderful texture contrast.
- Optional Cinnamon Sprinkle: Lightly sprinkle ground cinnamon over the top if using, adding a warm spice note to the cobbler.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. The cobbler is done when the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the batter comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cobbler to cool slightly before serving. It’s delicious enjoyed warm, especially with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Notes
- Feel free to use any combination of fresh or frozen fruit based on your preference or seasonality.
- Do not stir the fruit into the batter; this helps create the classic cobbler texture with fruit swimming under a soft crust.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Adding cinnamon is optional but enhances the flavor with a subtle warmth.
- Leftover cobbler can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
