OLD TIME OVEN PEACH COBBLER

Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler Recipe

Ingredients:

1. Fresh Peaches: 6-8 medium-sized, peeled and sliced.
2. Sugar: 1 cup for sweetness, adjust according to taste.
3. Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup for depth of flavor.
4. Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon, ground.
5. Nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon, ground.
6. Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons for a tangy twist.
7. Butter: 1/2 cup (unsalted), melted.
8. All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups for the cobbler crust.
9. Baking Powder: 1 tablespoon for leavening.
10. Salt: A pinch to balance flavors.
11. Milk: 1 1/2 cups for batter consistency.
12. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon for aroma.
13. Optional Toppings: Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Equipment:

• Oven
• Mixing bowls
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Whisk or mixer
• Knife and peeler for peaches
• Measuring cups and spoons

Preparation Steps:

1. Peach Mixture:
   • In a large bowl, mix the sliced peaches with 1/2 cup of sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir gently and allow it to sit so the flavors meld.
2. Cobbler Base:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Pour the melted butter into the baking dish, ensuring it coats the bottom evenly.
   • In another bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, baking powder, and salt.
   • Gradually add milk and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients, mixing until a smooth batter forms.
   • Pour this batter over the butter in the baking dish, but do not stir.
3. Assembling the Cobbler:
   • Spoon the peach mixture over the batter gently. Again, do not stir; the batter will rise and bake around the peach mixture.
4. Baking:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cobbler is set.
5. Serving:
   • Let the cobbler cool slightly. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips and Tricks:

• Peach Preparation: If peaches are not in season, you can use canned or frozen peaches. Make sure to drain them well if using canned.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding other spices like clove or allspice for a different flavor profile.
• Batter Consistency: The batter should be pourable but not too runny. Adjust the amount of milk if necessary.
• Checking Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the cobbler. It should come out clean when it’s done.
• Storing: Leftover cobbler can be stored in the refrigerator and is often just as tasty when eaten cold.
• Reheating: Warm it in the oven or microwave before serving.

Historical Context:

The peach cobbler is a classic American dessert, particularly popular in the Southern states. It originated in the 18th century when English settlers brought with them recipes for cobblers and adapted them using local ingredients, like peaches in the South. This dessert was typically made in a large, communal oven, making it a social dish often enjoyed at gatherings.

Conclusion:

This Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler recipe offers a blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, wrapped in a rich, buttery crust. Its simplicity and rustic charm make it an all-time favorite. The key to a great cobbler is the balance of flavors and the texture of the crust. Enjoy this delightful dessert with your family and friends, bringing a taste of tradition to your table.

This recipe provides a detailed approach to making an old-fashioned peach cobbler, covering everything from ingredients to serving suggestions. If you need more specific details or a longer text, let me know!