Preheat and Prep: Begin your 'easy peach cobbler recipe' by preheating your oven to a hot 425°F (220°C), setting the stage for a perfectly baked dessert. This high temperature is key for creating a cobbler with a well-cooked filling and a beautifully browned topping. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish lightly.
Peach Filling: In a large bowl, combine fresh, sliced peaches with both white and brown sugars in a bowl. This 'homemade peach cobbler' step is essential for drawing out the natural juices and sweetness of the peaches. Sprinkle in ground cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm, aromatic flavor, and add a pinch of salt and lemon juice to balance the sweetness. Cornstarch is your thickening agent, ensuring your filling is not too runny. Pour them into the prepared baking dish.
Bake the Peaches: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Place the peach mixture in a greased baking dish and let it bake solo for 10 minutes. This step, allows the peaches to soften and the flavors to meld, forming the perfect base for your cobbler. Meanwhile, let’s get the topping ready.
Cobbler Topping: Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Blend in the butter with your fingertips or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in boiling water just until the mixture is combined.
Assemble and Bake: Removing the partially baked peaches from the oven, spoon the topping over them in dollops. This technique allows for the 'old-fashioned peach cobbler' look, with peaks and valleys of dough that crisp up beautifully in the oven. Don’t worry about covering every inch; the cobbler charm is in its rusticity.
Golden Perfection: Return the dish to the oven for about 30 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the peach filling is bubbly. This is the crowning moment for any 'southern peach cobbler,' as it transforms into a dish with a deeply caramelized top and edges. Let it cool slightly before serving.