Easy Peach Cobbler Recipe: Can of Peaches & Cake Mix!
Imagine a dessert where the sun-kissed sweetness of ripe peaches melds effortlessly with the comforting crumb of a golden cake. The fragrance alone, a symphony of baked sugar and fruity zest, hints at the delectable experience to come. Each spoonful offers a delightful contrast: tender, juicy peach slices nestled within a soft, airy cake, creating a harmony of textures that dances on the palate.
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Mixing Bowl (for optional streusel topping)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
- Spatula or Spoon
- Toothpick or cake tester
Ingredients
- 1 29 ounce can sliced peaches in heavy syrup, undrained
- 1 15.25 ounce box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts pecans, walnuts, or almonds
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Step 2: Arrange Peaches in Dish: Pour the undrained can of sliced peaches into the prepared baking dish, spreading them evenly across the bottom. The syrup from the peaches will help keep the cake moist.
- Step 3: Sprinkle Cake Mix Over Peaches: Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the peaches. Ensure the peaches are mostly covered with the dry mix.
- Step 4: Drizzle with Melted Butter: Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. The butter will help create a golden-brown crust and add richness to the dessert. For even distribution, drizzle it slowly and methodically across the entire surface.
- Step 5: Add Optional Ingredients (if using): If desired, sprinkle cinnamon and chopped nuts evenly over the top of the cake mix and melted butter.
- Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 7: Cool Slightly and Serve: Let the dessert cool slightly before serving. This allows the juices to settle and the cake to firm up a bit. Serve warm on its own, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Optional tips or substitution notes: For a crispier topping, use more melted butter or add a streusel topping (flour, butter, sugar). Any flavor cake mix can be used. Other fruits like canned pineapple or cherries can be substituted for peaches.
Notes
Variations
- Ingredient Swaps: Substitute canned pears, pineapple, or cherries for the peaches. A different flavor of cake mix, such as spice cake, chocolate cake, or lemon cake, can also be used. Alternatively, incorporate 1/2 cup of shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips into the cake mix for added texture and flavor.
- Regional Twists: In the South, adding a splash of bourbon or rum extract to the melted butter imparts a distinctive flavor. Consider incorporating a layer of cream cheese filling (softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla) between the peaches and the cake mix for a richer dessert.
- Dietary Adjustments: Gluten-free cake mix can be used for those with gluten sensitivities. To reduce sugar, opt for peaches canned in light syrup or juice. Sugar substitutes suitable for baking can be incorporated into the cake mix. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter substitutes and check the cake mix for dairy ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
This peach dessert is optimally served warm, allowing the flavors to meld and the cake to remain tender. A scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce complement the dish beautifully. It is suitable for casual weeknight desserts, potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday celebrations. It pairs well with coffee, tea, or a glass of chilled white wine. Consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or fresh mint leaves for an elegant presentation.
Storage Tips
To preserve freshness, the baked dessert should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will maintain optimal quality for up to 3-4 days. Reheating individual portions in the microwave or oven is recommended to restore warmth and texture. Freezing is not generally recommended as it can alter the cake’s texture and make it soggy upon thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can fresh peaches be used instead of canned? Answer: Yes, fresh peaches can be used, but they should be peeled, sliced, and gently cooked with a bit of sugar and water to soften them before being added to the baking dish.
- Question 2: Can this recipe be made in a smaller baking dish? Answer: Yes, the recipe can be halved and made in an 8×8 inch baking dish. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Question 3: The cake is browning too quickly. What should I do? Answer: Tent the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
- Question 4: Can the cake mix be prepared according to package directions before adding it to the peaches? Answer: No, the dry cake mix is essential for absorbing the peach juices and creating the correct texture. Do not prepare it beforehand.