Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Peaches:** Start by peeling and slicing the fresh peaches into about 1/2-inch thick slices. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

2. **Make the Peach Filling:** In the same bowl with the peaches, add the sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, cornstarch, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt. Gently toss everything together to combine. The cornstarch will help thicken the juices released by the peaches as they cook.

3. **Assemble the Cobbler:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Pour the peach mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.

4. **Prepare the Biscuit Topping:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

5. **Add the Buttermilk:** Pour in the buttermilk and vanilla extract (if using), and stir just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix—the dough should be lumpy and a little sticky.

6. **Top the Peaches:** Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough over the peach filling, leaving a little space between each scoop. The topping doesn’t need to cover all the peaches; it will spread as it bakes.

7. **Bake the Cobbler:** Place the cobbler in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the biscuit topping is golden brown and the peach filling is bubbling around the edges.

8. **Serve and Enjoy:** Let the cobbler cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm, and a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes the perfect topping.

**Tips for the Perfect Peach Cobbler:**

– **Use Fresh Peaches:** While you can use frozen peaches in a pinch, fresh, in-season peaches will give this cobbler the best flavor and texture. If peaches aren’t in season, you can use frozen peaches—just be sure to thaw and drain them before using.
– **Make it Your Own:** Feel free to add your own twist to the filling. For example, a bit of almond extract can complement the peaches beautifully, or you can sprinkle a little brown sugar or cinnamon on the biscuit topping for added flavor.
– **Serve with Ice Cream or Whipped Cream:** While the cobbler is delicious on its own, serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream takes it to the next level.
– **Leftovers:** Leftover cobbler can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave. It’s just as delicious the next day!

**Conclusion**

**Fresh Southern Peach Cobbler** is the ultimate dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth and celebrate the flavors of summer. The juicy peaches combined with the buttery, biscuit-like topping make for an irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking it for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just as a special treat for yourself, this cobbler will be a hit every time.

So, grab those fresh peaches and make this comforting classic for your next dessert. It’s a recipe that brings the heart of the South into your kitchen—one delicious bite at a time!