Who doesn’t love a dessert that’s both delicious and incredibly easy to make? “Lazy Man’s” Pie, also known as Peach Cobbler, is a timeless treat that requires minimal effort and yields maximum flavor. This classic recipe combines buttery goodness with sweet, juicy fruit for a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving something sweet on a weeknight, this cobbler will hit the spot.
Tools Needed, Servings, and Cooking Time
Tools Needed:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven mitts
Servings: 6-8 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 stick butter or margarine
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Dash of salt
- 1 quart sweetened fruit (peaches, cherries, blackberries, or your favorite fruit)
Steps to Make “Lazy Man’s” Pie – Peach Cobbler
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
Place a stick of butter or margarine in your baking dish and set it in the preheating oven. Allow the butter to melt completely, then carefully remove the dish from the oven.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and milk. Whisk or stir until the mixture forms a smooth batter. The consistency should be pourable but not too thin.
Step 4: Assemble the Cobbler
Pour the batter over the melted butter in the baking dish. Do not stir. Next, evenly distribute the sweetened fruit over the batter. Again, do not stir. As the cobbler bakes, the batter will rise to the top and create a golden, cake-like crust that absorbs the flavor of the fruit.
Step 5: Bake the Cobbler
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the crust—it should come out clean.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the cobbler from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.
Recommendations for Recipe Success
- Choose the Right Fruit: Fresh or canned fruit works beautifully in this recipe. If using canned fruit, make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess liquid.
- Don’t Skip the Butter: The melted butter creates a rich base that enhances the cobbler’s flavor and texture.
- No Stirring: Resist the urge to stir the batter and fruit. Let the magic happen naturally as it bakes.
- Customize the Sweetness: If your fruit is already very sweet, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the batter.
- Use a Clear Dish: Baking in a glass or clear dish allows you to monitor the crust’s browning more easily.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the cobbler warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
- Sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg on top for added warmth and flavor.
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use unsweetened fruit in this recipe? A: Yes, you can use unsweetened fruit. Add a bit of sugar to the batter or sprinkle it over the fruit for desired sweetness.
Q2: Can I substitute margarine with butter? A: Absolutely. Butter adds a rich, creamy flavor, but margarine works just as well if that’s what you have on hand.
Q3: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
Q4: What other fruits can I use? A: This recipe is versatile. Try cherries, blackberries, blueberries, or even a mix of fruits for a unique twist.
Q5: How can I prevent the cobbler from being too runny? A: If using fresh fruit, toss it with a tablespoon of flour before adding it to the dish. This will help thicken the juices as it bakes.
Conclusion
“Lazy Man’s” Pie is the ultimate dessert for those who crave homemade goodness without spending hours in the kitchen. Its simplicity, versatility, and delicious flavor make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, this peach cobbler is sure to satisfy. Give it a try and savor the sweet rewards of effortless baking!
