Peach Cobbler Recipe for 60 People: Perfectly Sweet and Juicy

Peach cobbler is a classic Southern dessert that combines tender, juicy peaches with a golden, buttery biscuit topping. When scaled for a large gathering, it becomes a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to serve and always hits the spot. This recipe ensures you get a warm, flavorful peach cobbler perfect for parties, potlucks, or family reunions.

Ingredients

• 15 pounds fresh peaches, peeled and sliced
• 3 cups granulated sugar, divided
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• 3 cups buttermilk
• Optional: ground nutmeg or ginger for added spice

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large (around 14×20 inches) deep baking dish or multiple smaller baking dishes to accommodate 60 servings.
2. In a very large mixing bowl, combine the sliced peaches with 1 1/2 cups of sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, vanilla, and cornstarch. Stir gently until well coated. Let this mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the juices to develop.
3. While the peaches macerate, prepare the biscuit topping. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, baking powder, salt, and optional spices. Add the cubed cold butter and cut in with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Pour in the buttermilk and stir just until combined; do not overmix.
4. Spread the peach filling evenly into the prepared baking dish(es). Using a spoon or scoop, dollop the biscuit batter over the peaches, covering as much surface as possible but leaving some gaps for steam to escape.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the biscuit topping; it should come out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. The cobbler is best enjoyed warm, but can be served at room temperature or cooled completely for later.

Tips

• Peach Preparation: Use ripe peaches for the best flavor. If peaches are not in season, frozen peaches can be used—thaw and drain excess liquid before using.
• Substitutions: For a dairy-free version, replace buttermilk with almond milk or coconut milk, and use coconut oil instead of butter.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or reheat the entire cobbler in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes.
• Common Mistakes: Overmixing the biscuit batter can make the topping tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a tender, flaky topping.

Serving Suggestions

Serve peach cobbler warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence. For a lighter option, a sprinkle of fresh mint adds a refreshing touch. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a sweet iced tea to complete the dessert experience.

Variations

For a different twist, you can add chopped nuts like pecans or almonds into the biscuit topping for crunch. You might also incorporate berries such as blueberries or raspberries with the peaches for a mixed fruit cobbler. Spices like ginger or nutmeg can be added to the peach filling for more warmth and depth of flavor. If you prefer a crumble topping, replace the biscuit batter with a mixture of flour, brown sugar, butter, and oats for a crumbly texture.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover peach cobbler can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, individual servings can be microwaved for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For best texture, avoid reheating in the microwave for too long, as it can cause the topping to become soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?

Yes, canned peaches work well and are convenient. Drain excess syrup thoroughly to prevent the filling from becoming too watery. Adjust the sugar slightly if the canned peaches are in syrup, as they tend to be sweeter.

How do I scale this recipe for fewer servings?

To reduce the recipe, simply divide the ingredients proportionally. For example, halving the quantities will give you about 30 servings. Use a smaller baking dish accordingly. Keep in mind that baking times may vary slightly with smaller portions.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the cobbler a few hours ahead, refrigerate it, and then bake just before serving. If baking from cold, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time. For best results, serve it warm shortly after baking.

Is peach cobbler suitable for freezing?

Peach cobbler can be frozen, especially if assembled but not baked. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly.

What are some common mistakes to avoid?

Overmixing the biscuit topping can lead to a tough crust. Using unripe or overripe peaches can affect flavor and texture. Not draining canned peaches adequately can make the filling too watery, resulting in a soggy bottom. Also, skipping the baking step after assembly will prevent the topping from setting properly.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but with the right flour, it can be just as delicious.

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