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“She Took This Cherry & Peach Cobbler to the Cookout—It Was Gone Before the Burgers Hit the Grill”
This Cherry & Peach Cornbread Cobbler is what summer dessert dreams are made of—juicy fruit bubbling under a golden, slightly sweet cornbread crust. It’s a rustic, skillet-style dessert that’s both comforting and unexpected, perfect for cookouts, potlucks, or any sunny-day celebration.
The tart cherries balance beautifully with the soft sweetness of ripe peaches, while the cornbread topping adds a bit of savory depth and texture. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and prepare for the compliments to roll in.
1. Yield, Time & Tools
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Tools Needed: 10-inch oven-safe skillet or 9×9-inch baking dish, mixing bowls, whisk, measuring cups and spoons
2. Ingredients
For the Fruit Filling:
- 2 cups sliced peaches (fresh or thawed if frozen)
- 2 cups pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cornbread Topping:
- ¾ cup cornmeal
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp vinegar)
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup melted butter
3. Preparation Steps
A. Prep the Fruit Filling
Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, toss together peaches, cherries, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla. Pour into greased skillet or baking dish.
B. Make the Cornbread Topping
In a separate bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Stir wet ingredients into dry until just combined.
C. Assemble & Bake
Spoon cornbread batter over the fruit, spreading gently to cover most (but not all) of the fruit. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until topping is golden and the fruit is bubbly.
D. Cool & Serve
Let cool for at least 10–15 minutes. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
4. Tips & Variations
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the fruit for warmth.
- Use apricots or mulberries in place of cherries or peaches.
- Make it gluten-free with a 1:1 flour blend.
- Try it in individual ramekins for personal-sized servings.
5. Troubleshooting FAQ
Can I use canned fruit?
Yes—drain well and reduce sugar slightly.
Why is my topping too dense?
Don’t overmix the batter, and check that your baking powder is fresh.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes—use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.
What if the topping browns too fast?
Tent with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
6. Serving Suggestions
- Serve with vanilla or honey ice cream.
- Garnish with fresh mint or powdered sugar.
- Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or cold brew for a full summer vibe.
7. Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
- Storage: Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in oven at 325°F or microwave individual portions.
- Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare fruit filling and topping separately; assemble just before baking.
- Freezer Instructions: Freeze unbaked cobbler for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to the time.
