Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 2 lbs frozen peaches, sliced: Provides the base and main flavor of the cobbler.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the peach filling.
- 8 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps thicken the sauce.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Offers a warm, spicy flavor that complements the peaches.
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg: Adds depth and a hint of spice to the filling.
- 1 1/2 cups water: Used to create a syrupy base for the filling.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the peach filling.
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour: Thickens the peach mixture to prevent it from being too runny.
For the Crust:
- 1 cup butter-flavored shortening: Ensures a flaky and flavorful crust.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The primary structure of the crust.
- 2 tbsp sugar: Adds a slight sweetness to the crust.
- 1 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 1/3 cup ice water: Binds the dough and ensures it’s pliable.
Directions
Preparing the Dough:
- Mix Flour and Shortening: In a large mixing bowl, sift 2 cups of all-purpose flour. Add 1 cup of butter-flavored shortening. Using a pastry cutter or dough hooks on an electric mixer, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Water: Slowly mix in 1/3 cup of ice water until the dough begins to come together.
- Chill: Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 45 minutes to relax the gluten and firm up the fat, making the dough easier to handle.
Making the Filling:
- Cook Peaches: In a large pot, combine the sliced peaches, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 1/2 cups water, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp nutmeg. Heat over medium-high until the mixture begins to bubble.
- Add Butter and Vanilla: Stir in 8 tbsp butter and 2 tsp vanilla extract, mixing until the butter is fully melted.
- Thicken Filling: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/2 cup of water with 3 tbsp all-purpose flour until smooth. Pour this mixture into the bubbling peaches, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer until the filling thickens.
Assembling and Baking:
- Pre-Bake Crust Squares: Roll out half of the chilled dough on a floured surface. Cut into 1-inch squares and place on a cookie sheet. Bake at 375°F for 7 minutes until just set.
- Assemble in Dish: Pour the thickened peach filling into a 13×9 inch baking dish. Add the pre-baked dough squares, gently folding them into the filling.
- Top with Lattice: Roll out the remaining dough and cut into strips. Weave these strips over the filling in a lattice pattern.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake at 375°F for 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cobbler to cool slightly. Serve warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Enjoy the delightful blend of sweet peaches and a buttery, flaky crust in this traditional family favorite!