Peach Blackberry Cobbler is a timeless dessert that brings together the natural sweetness of ripe peaches and the tangy flavor of fresh blackberries. This classic cobbler recipe, topped with a golden, biscuit-like crust, is an ideal way to celebrate the best of summer produce. Served warm, it pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, creating a comforting, rustic dessert perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Peach Blackberry Cobbler, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 3 ½ lbs fresh peaches (peeled, pitted, and sliced)
- 8 ounces fresh blackberries (halved if large)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
For the Topping:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (cubed)
- ¾ cup low-fat buttermilk
- ½ tablespoon turbinado sugar (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling
Start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel, pit, and slice the peaches, then toss them in a large bowl with the blackberries, sugar, and cornstarch. Stir until the fruit is well coated, and pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the Topping
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the buttermilk until the mixture forms a dough. This dough should be slightly wet but manageable.
3. Assemble and Bake
Using an ice cream scoop or a large spoon, drop portions of the dough evenly over the fruit filling. Optionally, sprinkle the top with turbinado sugar for extra crunch. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Cobbler
- Choosing the Right Peaches: When in season, fresh peaches offer unbeatable flavor and texture. However, frozen peaches can be a good alternative when fresh are unavailable. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Canned peaches, while convenient, are less desirable as they tend to have a mushier texture.
- Enhancing Flavors: For an added layer of flavor, consider infusing the cobbler topping with spices such as cardamom or nutmeg. You can also add citrus zest or even candied ginger to elevate the dessert further.
- Topping Alternatives: For a different texture, you can swap the traditional biscuit topping with a cake mix or a crumble. This change gives you a variety of textures depending on your preference.
- Serving Suggestions: Peach Blackberry Cobbler is best served warm, accompanied by vanilla ice cream or a generous helping of whipped cream. The contrast between the warm fruit and cold ice cream creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
- Storing and Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Reheat the cobbler in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, approximately 10-15 minutes.
Nutritional Information
A typical serving of Peach Blackberry Cobbler contains approximately:
- 321 calories
- 57g carbohydrates
- 10g fat
- 5g fiber
- 5g protein.
Conclusion
Peach Blackberry Cobbler is a delightful and versatile dessert, perfect for summer or any time you crave a comforting, fruit-filled treat. The combination of sweet peaches, tart blackberries, and a buttery, golden topping makes this dessert an irresistible choice for all ages. Whether you’re using fresh, frozen, or even canned fruit, the cobbler’s rich flavors and textures make it a favorite among fruit-based desserts. Give it a try, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of summer in every bite!
