Triple Crust Peach Cobbler is a Southern classic, beloved for its rich, buttery crust and the sweet, juicy flavor of fresh peaches. Unlike traditional cobblers with a single or double crust, this recipe features three layers of golden, flaky crust, giving it extra texture and richness. This cobbler is perfect for gatherings, summer barbecues, or any time you want a comforting dessert with a bit of a twist.
The origins of Peach Cobbler trace back to early American settlers who created this dish when they lacked the resources to make traditional pies. Instead, they would cook fruit in an iron pot, covering it with a biscuit dough or pie crust, resulting in a “cobbled” appearance. Over time, peach cobbler became especially popular in the South, where peaches are plentiful. Today, the triple-crust version elevates this humble dessert into something extra indulgent.
Recipe Details
- Servings: 8 people
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Type of Meal: Dessert
- Meal Classification: Sweet, Baked Dessert
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
Ingredients for Triple Crust Peach Cobbler
To make this luscious peach cobbler, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Crust:
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 1/2 cups (make sure to sift for a lighter crust)
- Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), cold and cubed
- Ice Water: 6-8 tablespoons (to bind the dough)
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon (optional, for a slightly sweeter crust)
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (enhances the flavors in the crust)
For the Peach Filling:
- Fresh Peaches: 6-7 large, peeled and sliced (about 6 cups)
- Sugar: 1 cup (adjust depending on the sweetness of your peaches)
- Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup (for added richness)
- Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons (to thicken the filling)
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (brightens the flavor of the peaches)
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon (for a warm, spiced flavor)
- Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for an extra depth of flavor)
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon (to enhance the peach filling)
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (to dot over the filling before baking)
Ingredient Notes:
- Peaches: For the best flavor, use ripe, fresh peaches when they’re in season. If fresh peaches are unavailable, you can substitute with frozen (thawed and drained) or canned peaches (drained), but fresh peaches will provide the best texture and flavor.
- Butter: Ensure your butter is very cold for the crust. Cold butter helps create a flaky, tender crust, which is essential for the triple layers.
- Lemon Juice: This small amount of acidity balances the sweetness of the peaches and adds freshness to the filling.
How to Make Triple Crust Peach Cobbler
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar (if using), and salt. This creates an even distribution of dry ingredients.Tip: Sifting the flour ensures that your crust will be light and tender. Make sure the butter is cold and straight from the fridge, which will help create those desirable flaky layers.
- Cut in the Butter: Using a pastry cutter or your hands, work the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter.Tip: Be gentle and work quickly to prevent the butter from warming up. You want the butter to remain cold to achieve the flaky texture when baking.
- Add the Ice Water: Slowly drizzle in the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing just until the dough comes together. Do not overwork the dough. It should hold together when pressed but still feel soft.Tip: If the dough feels too dry, add another tablespoon of water, but avoid adding too much as this can make the dough tough.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into three equal parts, flatten them into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Peach Filling
- Slice the Peaches: While the dough is chilling, peel and slice the peaches. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Filling: Add the sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract to the peaches. Toss everything together gently until the peaches are well-coated and the sugar has dissolved.Tip: The cornstarch will help thicken the juices from the peaches as they bake, ensuring a luscious, syrupy filling. Stir gently to avoid breaking up the peaches.
Step 3: Assemble the Cobbler
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the first disc of dough to fit the bottom of the baking dish. Place it into the prepared dish and press it gently to fit.Tip: Roll the dough evenly and avoid stretching it, as this can cause it to shrink while baking.
- Add the First Layer of Filling: Pour half of the peach filling over the bottom crust and dot with a few small pieces of butter.
- Add the Second Crust: Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the peaches. You can cut this layer into strips to create a lattice or leave it whole. Top with the remaining peach filling and dot with butter.
- Final Crust Layer: Roll out the third disc of dough and place it over the top. If you prefer, you can create another lattice, or leave it whole with a few slits cut into it to allow steam to escape.Tip: Brush the top layer of dough with a little melted butter or an egg wash for a beautiful golden finish.
Step 4: Bake the Cobbler
- Bake: Place the cobbler in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the peach filling is bubbling around the edges.Tip: If the crust is browning too quickly, cover the top loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while the peaches finish cooking.
- Cool Slightly: Let the cobbler cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the Triple Crust Peach Cobbler warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, sweet peaches and flaky crust.
Tips for Making the Best Triple Crust Peach Cobbler
- Use Ripe Peaches: The quality of your peaches will make or break the cobbler. Use peaches that are ripe but firm to the touch. Overripe peaches can become mushy, while underripe peaches won’t be as sweet or juicy.
- Chill the Dough: Keep the dough cold at all times to ensure a flaky crust. If it softens while rolling out, return it to the refrigerator for a few minutes.
- Balance the Sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of your peaches, you may want to adjust the amount of sugar in the filling. Taste your peaches before adding the sugar and adjust accordingly.
Variations of Triple Crust Peach Cobbler
Mixed Berry and Peach Cobbler
Add fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries to the peach filling for a colorful and tangy twist on the classic cobbler.
Cinnamon Sugar Crust
Sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar over the top crust before baking for an extra sweet and spiced finish.
Bourbon Peach Cobbler
For an adult twist, add 1-2 tablespoons of bourbon to the peach filling. The bourbon complements the sweetness of the peaches and adds a warm, complex flavor.
Nutritional Information for Triple Crust Peach Cobbler
Here’s an estimate of the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 60 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 35 g |
| Sodium | 220 mg |
| Calcium | 40 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
This cobbler is a rich dessert, packed with carbohydrates and fats. For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use a whole wheat crust for added fiber.
What to Serve with Triple Crust Peach Cobbler
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creamy, cold ice cream melts beautifully over the warm cobbler.
- Whipped Cream: Light, airy whipped cream is a great contrast tothe rich and buttery cobbler, adding a light touch to each bite.
- Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for an extra burst of freshness and color.
- Cinnamon Whipped Cream: For a flavorful twist, add a dash of cinnamon to your whipped cream for a warm, spiced complement to the peach cobbler.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches if fresh peaches are not in season. Thaw the peaches completely and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the filling to prevent the cobbler from becoming too watery.Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough for the crust ahead of time. Prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days, or freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw the frozen dough in the refrigerator before using.What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover peach cobbler in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the cobbler in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 30-60 seconds.Can I make this cobbler vegan?
Yes! You can make this recipe vegan by using a plant-based butter for the crust and substituting the egg wash with a plant-based milk. Ensure that the sugar used is vegan-friendly as well.How do I prevent the bottom crust from becoming soggy?
To avoid a soggy bottom crust, you can prebake the bottom layer of dough for 8-10 minutes before adding the peach filling. This will give the crust a head start and help it stay firm.Conclusion
Triple Crust Peach Cobbler is an indulgent, comforting dessert that celebrates the sweetness of summer peaches with a buttery, flaky crust. The three layers of crust add extra texture and richness, making this cobbler a standout at any gathering. Whether served with ice cream, whipped cream, or just on its own, this cobbler is sure to impress.
The recipe is also versatile, allowing you to customize it with different fruits, spices, or even a splash of bourbon for added flavor. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both classic and extra special, this Triple Crust Peach Cobbler is the perfect choice.
If you try this recipe, we’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your tips, variations, or any fun additions in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—this cobbler is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!