Description
This quintessential Southern dessert features tender peaches enveloped in a golden, buttery crust that rises through the fruit as it bakes. It is a reliable, comforting classic that delivers a perfect balance of syrupy sweetness and a soft, cake-like crumb.
Ingredients
- 4 cups sliced peaches (fresh or drained canned)
- 2 cups granulated sugar, divided
- 1/2 cup water (for fresh peaches)
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9-by-13-inch baking dish.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the peach slices, 1 cup of sugar, and 1/2 cup water; bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes until tender.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 cup of sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Slowly whisk the milk into the dry ingredients, then stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter into the baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
- Spoon the hot peach mixture and its syrup over the batter without stirring the contents.
- Sprinkle a light dusting of cinnamon over the top if desired.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the crust is a deep golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
For the best results, do not stir the peach mixture into the batter once it has been poured into the dish; the magic happens as the batter rises around the fruit naturally. If you prefer a thicker syrup, you can let the peach mixture cool slightly before adding it to the dish to allow the natural pectins to set. Always serve this dish warm to fully experience the buttery texture of the crust.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 55 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American