Peach cobbler is a classic dessert, warm, comforting, and bursting with the sweet taste of summer peaches. But who has time for a fussy recipe when you're craving that deliciousness? This slow cooker peach cobbler recipe, using a simple cake mix shortcut, delivers all the flavor with minimal effort. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unbelievably easy and delicious dessert!
Why Use a Cake Mix?
Using a cake mix isn't cheating; it's a smart time-saver! It provides a consistent base for the cobbler topping, allowing you to focus on the juicy peach filling. This recipe lets you enjoy the comforting taste of homemade cobbler without the hours of preparation.
What You'll Need:
For the Peach Filling:
- 6 cups fresh or frozen peaches, sliced (fresh peaches are ideal, but frozen work great too!)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional, for a warmer spice note)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
For the Cake Mix Topping:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
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Prepare the Peach Filling: In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced peaches, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves (if using), and lemon juice. Mix until the peaches are evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in mushy peaches.
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Assemble in the Slow Cooker: Pour the peach mixture into your slow cooker.
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Make the Topping: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and milk until just combined. Do not overmix – a few lumps are okay.
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Top and Cook: Pour the cake mix batter evenly over the peach filling in the slow cooker. Don't worry about spreading it perfectly; it will even out during cooking.
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Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the topping is golden brown and the peaches are bubbly and tender. Cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker and the type of peaches used.
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Cool and Serve: Let the cobbler cool slightly before serving. This allows the filling to set and the topping to firm up a bit. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Frequently Asked Questions (PAAs)
Can I use frozen peaches?
Absolutely! Frozen peaches work perfectly well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the slow cooker. You may need to drain off any excess liquid before adding them to the mixture.
What kind of cake mix should I use?
Yellow cake mix is the most common and provides a delicious flavor pairing with the peaches. However, you can experiment with other flavors like spice cake or even lemon cake for a unique twist.
How do I know when the cobbler is done?
The cobbler is done when the topping is golden brown and the peaches are bubbly and tender. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
Can I make this cobbler ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh, you can assemble the cobbler in the slow cooker up to a day ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just increase the cooking time slightly when you're ready to cook it.
Can I use other fruits besides peaches?
Yes! This recipe can be adapted to use other fruits like apples, berries, or a combination of fruits. Adjust the sugar amount depending on the sweetness of the fruit you use.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Peach Cobbler:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough topping.
- Check for doneness frequently: Cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker.
- Let it cool slightly before serving: This allows the filling to set and the flavors to meld.
- Get creative with toppings: Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.
This easy slow cooker peach cobbler recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the delicious flavors of summer with minimal effort!
