Peach Cobbler Recipe for 50 People: Perfectly Sweet and Juicy

Peach cobbler is a classic dessert that combines tender, ripe peaches with a buttery, flaky topping. Perfect for large gatherings or events, this recipe ensures everyone gets a generous serving of this sweet, comforting treat. Its balance of juicy fruit and crispy crust makes it a crowd favorite every time.

Ingredients

• 12 pounds fresh peaches (about 50-60 peaches, peeled and sliced)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 cups granulated sugar (for topping)
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt (for topping)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or butter a large 12×18-inch baking dish or multiple smaller dishes to accommodate 50 servings.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced peaches, 2 cups of sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat all the fruit evenly. Let this mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the juices to develop.
3. While the peaches macerate, prepare the topping. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining 4 cups of sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the melted butter and milk, stirring until just combined. The batter will be somewhat thick but pourable.
4. Pour the peach filling into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Pour the batter over the peaches, spreading it gently to cover the entire surface. Do not worry if it doesn’t cover perfectly; the batter will spread during baking.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the topping comes out clean.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly for about 15 minutes before serving. This helps the juices thicken and makes serving easier.

Tips

• Use ripe, in-season peaches for the best flavor and juiciness. If peaches are not in season, frozen peaches can be used—just thaw and drain excess liquid.
• Adjust sugar based on the sweetness of your peaches. Taste the fruit mixture before baking and add more sugar if needed.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix, but expect slight differences in texture.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for best results.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the peach cobbler warm or at room temperature, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cinnamon for presentation.

Variations

• Berry Peach Cobbler: Add 2 cups of fresh or frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries) to the peach filling for a mixed fruit version.
• Spiced Peach Cobbler: Incorporate a pinch of ground ginger or cloves into the fruit filling for a warm spice twist.
• Vegan Peach Cobbler: Use plant-based milk (almond, soy) and vegan butter or coconut oil in the topping.
• Crumb Topping: Replace the batter with a crumble mixture of flour, butter, and brown sugar for a crunchier topping.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or reheat the entire dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes. For best texture, reheat just before serving to retain the crispness of the topping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this peach cobbler ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the fruit filling and topping separately a day in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving for the freshest experience. Alternatively, bake the entire cobbler and reheat when needed.

Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?

Absolutely. Use drained canned peaches and reduce the sugar slightly, as canned peaches are often sweeter. Adjust the baking time if necessary, as canned peaches are softer.

How do I ensure the topping is crispy and golden?

Make sure to bake at the correct temperature and for the full time specified. If the topping isn’t browning enough, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch carefully to prevent burning.

Is it possible to reduce the sugar content?

Yes, you can cut back on the sugar by 25-50%, especially if your peaches are very sweet. Taste the fruit mixture before baking and adjust accordingly. Keep in mind that sugar also affects the texture of the topping.

How do I serve this for a large crowd?

Use a large, deep baking dish or multiple smaller dishes to ensure even cooking. Serve with scoops of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a crowd-pleasing presentation. Keep warm in a chafing dish or covered warm oven if needed.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes.

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