There's something utterly comforting about a warm, rustic cobbler, especially when it involves the heavenly combination of vanilla and fresh peaches. This Rustic Vanilla Peach Cobbler is perfect for a cozy gathering or simply savoring the flavors of summer. It's simple, yet packed with rich, comforting tastes.
Let's dive into what makes this cobbler so special, starting with the main star: peaches. Fresh, ripe peaches bring a naturally sweet and juicy element that canned ones just can't match. The granulated sugar and light brown sugar combine to sweeten the fruit and caramelize slightly during baking, adding depth. A touch of vanilla extract enhances the fruit's flavor while the lemon juice balances the sweetness with a hint of acidity.
Butter is essential for creating that golden, crispy crust. As it melts, it forms a rich base for the batter to rise through. The flour, along with the baking powder and salt, forms the batter that rises around the fruit. Lastly, a dash of ground cinnamon on top gives it a warm, inviting finish.
This cobbler pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a bit of crunch, sprinkle some toasted almonds on top. It also makes a delightful breakfast treat with a cup of hot tea.
First, let's get your oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). You'll want it hot and ready once the cobbler is assembled. In a large mixing bowl, toss together your sliced peaches with half a cup of granulated sugar, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a splash of lemon juice. Give it a good stir and let it sit for a bit. This resting time lets the peaches release their juices and soak up all those sweet flavors.
While the peaches are marinating, pop the butter into a 9x13-inch baking dish and slide it into the oven. Let it melt completely. This method is key to achieving that signature cobbler crust. Meanwhile, in another bowl, whisk together the flour, the remaining granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Once that's well mixed, gradually pour in the milk, stirring until you have a smooth, lump-free batter.
With your butter melted and bubbling, carefully pour the batter right over it in the dish. Don't stir — this is crucial. The batter will rise up around the peaches as it bakes. Spoon the peach mixture evenly over the batter and resist the urge to mix. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top and it's ready for the oven. Bake it for about 45-50 minutes, until the top is beautifully golden and the peaches are bubbling invitingly.