Georgia Peach Cobbler

Georgia Peach Cobbler is a timeless classic, deeply rooted in Southern culinary tradition. Bursting with the sweet and tangy flavors of ripe peaches, enveloped in a buttery, golden crust, this dessert is a celebration of summer’s bounty. With its irresistible aroma wafting from the oven and its comforting warmth, Georgia Peach Cobbler is more than just a dessert; it’s a symbol of hospitality and togetherness, perfect for sharing with family and friends on any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups fresh Georgia peaches, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup boiling water
• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Peaches: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Begin by peeling and slicing fresh Georgia peaches, enough to fill 6 cups. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced peaches with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Gently toss until the peaches are evenly coated in the sugar and spice mixture. Allow the peaches to macerate for about 30 minutes, allowing their natural juices to meld with the sweeteners and spices, enhancing the flavor of the cobbler.
2. Prepare the Batter: While the peaches are macerating, prepare the batter for the cobbler. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Gradually pour in the melted butter, stirring continuously until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Assemble the Cobbler: Once the peaches have macerated, transfer them to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading them out evenly. Spoon the prepared batter over the top of the peaches, using a spatula to spread it into an even layer. Don’t worry if the batter doesn’t cover the peaches completely; it will spread and expand as it bakes, creating a delightful crust.
4. Add Boiling Water: In a small saucepan, bring 1/4 cup of water to a boil. Carefully pour the boiling water over the batter and peaches in the baking dish. This step may seem unusual, but it creates a steamy environment in the oven, helping the cobbler achieve the perfect balance of tender fruit and golden crust.
5. Bake to Perfection: Place the assembled cobbler in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. The aroma of cinnamon-spiced peaches will fill your kitchen, tempting you with its irresistible fragrance.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the Georgia Peach Cobbler is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dessert is best enjoyed warm, either on its own or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Georgia Peach Cobbler is not just a dessert; it’s a culinary journey through the heart of the South, where the rich soil of Georgia yields some of the juiciest and most flavorful peaches in the world. Each bite of this luscious cobbler is a tribute to the farmers who nurture the land and the generations of cooks who have perfected this beloved recipe.