Grandma’s Easy Peach Cobbler (A Cup, A Cup, A Cup!)

Simple, soulful, and straight from the heart of Southwest Arkansas—this old-fashioned cobbler uses just three main ingredients (plus fruit!) to create a golden, bubbling dessert that tastes like home. With a tender cake-like topping, sweet peaches, and a hint of cinnamon sugar, it’s comfort food at its finest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just a cobbler—it’s a family secret passed down with love. My mom taught me the magic phrase: “A cup, a cup, a cup”—1 cup sugar, 1 cup self-rising flour, and 1 cup milk. Mix them up, pour over juicy peaches, and bake into a warm, buttery-sweet masterpiece. No fancy tools, no long list of ingredients—just honest, Southern-style goodness.

Perfect for:

Last-minute desserts

Family gatherings and potlucks

Using pantry staples

Making memories in the kitchen

🍑 "I made this for my kids," said one home cook. "They said it tasted like Grandma’s—even though I’m the first grandma!" 

Ingredients

For the Cobbler Base

1 (15 oz) can peaches in juice or syrup, drained (reserve liquid if desired for serving)

✅ Use yellow peaches or mixed fruit like pears or berries 

Optional: 2 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces (for extra richness on the bottom layer)

For the Batter

1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

1 cup (120g) self-rising flour (do not use all-purpose unless you add leavening)

1 cup (240ml) milk, room temperature

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Crunch

1–2 tsp ground cinnamon

2–3 tbsp sugar (optional, for topping)

✅ Optional Upgrade: Add ½ tsp vanilla extract to the batter for extra warmth. 

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).

Place a light layer of butter (if using) in the bottom of an 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch baking dish—it will melt as the cobbler bakes.

✅ No butter? Just grease the pan lightly. 

2. Arrange the Peaches

Spread the drained peaches evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish.

Pour any reserved peach juice around the edges if you want a saucier cobbler (great for serving over ice cream!).

3. Make the Batter

In a medium bowl:

Whisk together sugar, self-rising flour, and milk until smooth and lump-free (~1 minute).

Stir in vanilla, if using.

✅ Don’t overmix—just combine. 

4. Pour & Bake (First Half)

Gently pour the batter over the peaches—don’t stir! It will sink slightly and rise during baking.

Bake 17–18 minutes, until the top is set and beginning to puff.

5. Add the Cinnamon-Sugar Finish

Remove from oven and sprinkle the top evenly with cinnamon and sugar.

✅ Use more or less based on your sweet tooth! 

Return to oven and bake another 17–18 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.

6. Cool & Serve

Let cool 10–15 minutes before serving—this allows the sauce to thicken slightly.

Scoop warm into bowls.

✅ Serve with: Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of leftover peach juice. 

You Must Know

Use self-rising flour —it already contains baking powder and salt. If you only have all-purpose flour, substitute with:

1 cup all-purpose flour + 1½ tsp baking powder + ¼ tsp salt 

Drain the peaches well —excess liquid can make the cobbler soggy.

Low oven temp = even baking —keeps the top from burning while the center cooks through.

Tastes better the next day! Reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat gently in the microwave or oven with a splash of milk or juice.

Freeze for up to 3 months —thaw overnight before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

Peaches

Pears, cherries, blueberries, or apples

Any canned or fresh fruit works

Self-rising flour

Homemade blend (see tip above)

Essential for rise and texture

Milk

Oat, almond, or soy milk

Dairy-free option

Sugar

Coconut sugar or maple syrup

Adjust consistency if needed

Serving Suggestions

Serve family-style in the baking dish.

Great for church suppers, holiday dinners, or rainy-day treats.

Double the batch and freeze half for future comfort.

Pair with sweet tea or coffee.

Cultural Context

Rooted in Southern farmhouse kitchens and Depression-era resourcefulness, this recipe honors the tradition of turning simple ingredients into something deeply satisfying. Found on porches, picnic tables, and Sunday supper tables across Southwest Arkansas and beyond, it’s proof that great food doesn’t have to be complicated—just full of heart.

Pro Tips

Double the recipe? Yes—use a 9×13-inch pan and increase baking time by 5–10 mins.

Want more spice? Add nutmeg or ginger to the cinnamon mix.

Make ahead: Assemble unbaked cobbler and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready.

Label your dish: People will ask for the recipe.

Say “ready?” before serving —it’s part of the ritual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use fresh peaches?

A: Absolutely! Peel and slice 2–3 cups fresh peaches. Toss with 1 tbsp sugar and let sit 10 mins before using.

Q: Why did my cobbler come out mushy?

A: Likely too much liquid. Always drain canned fruit well.

Q: Is this gluten-free?

A: Only if using GF self-rising flour blend.

Q: Can I make it in a slow cooker?

A: Yes! Layer peaches, pour batter over, cover, and cook on LOW 3–4 hours.

Q: Can I air fry it?

A: Not the whole dish—but reheat individual portions at 350°F for 8–10 mins.

Allergy Information

Contains: dairy (milk), wheat (flour).

Gluten-free option: Use certified GF self-rising flour.

Nut-free: This recipe is naturally nut-free.

Always check labels—especially on canned fruits and pre-made ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)

Based on 6 servings

Calories: 280

Fat: 3g

Saturated Fat: 1g

Carbohydrates: 60g

Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 45g

Protein: 4g

Sodium: 180mg

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on brands and substitutions. Not intended as medical advice. 

Final Thought: This cobbler doesn’t shout. It bubbles quietly in the oven, golden and fragrant, saying everything a great dessert should: “Scoop me slow. Share me. This is good.” That’s how the best ones begin—not with fanfare, but with sugar, soul, and someone who says, “Let’s make it together.”