You have to try this Peach Cobbler – sort of Peach Cobbler. The method is a bit unusual. It results in a sticky-crunchy topping that is hard to beat. Use the same crust to top summer berries, if you prefer. Margie served it topped with No-Churn Bourbon Brown Sugar Ice Cream and Buttered Pecans. To Die For!!!
Ingredients:
- 10 large peaches (about 4½ pounds), unpeeled, cut into 1-inch chunks
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- ½ c (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 c sugar, divided
- 1½ c flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ¾ cup whole milk
- ½ cup hot tap water
- Heavy cream, for serving
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°.
- Put the peaches in a 9-by-13-inch (or similar) baking pan or gratin dish.
- Pat the peaches into a roughly even layer.
- Using a zester or a Microplane, zest the lemon evenly over the fruit and squeeze the lemon juice evenly over the top.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the butter and 1½ cups of the sugar on medium speed until sandy, about 1 minute.
- Add the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Beat again for another 30 seconds, until all the flour is incorporated and the mixture is evenly crumbly.
- With the mixer on low speed, slowly add in the milk.
- Increase the speed to medium and beat until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Plop the batter in 6 large blobs over the top of the peaches.
- With an offset spatula or small knife, carefully spread the batter evenly over the fruit, so it’s no more than about ½ inch thick in any one place.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup sugar directly over the batter.
- Drizzle the hot water evenly over the sugar, using it to melt the sugar into the topping. (Use it all. It’s a strange method, but it works.)
- Bake the cobbler for 70 to 80 minutes, or until the top is browned and cracked. (A toothpick inserted into the topping should come out dry—be sure to check in a few places.)
- Let the cobbler sit for about a half an hour to firm up before serving warm in big bowls, with heavy cream poured on top.
Serves: 8
Source: Epicurus by Renee Erickson