Introduction
Peach Cobbler Cookies are the ultimate sweet treat that captures the essence of a classic peach cobbler in a convenient, handheld cookie form. These soft, chewy cookies are filled with sweet peach bits, warm cinnamon, and a crumbly streusel topping that will make them irresistible. They’re perfect for summer when peaches are in season, but they can be enjoyed year-round with canned or frozen peaches.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Peach cobbler is a beloved dessert in the American South, where cobblers of various kinds are made using fresh, seasonal fruits and a buttery biscuit or pastry topping. This cookie version is a modern twist that transforms the flavors of peach cobbler into an easy-to-eat dessert that combines the familiarity of a cookie with the nostalgic taste of a Southern classic.
Ingredients (Makes 24 Cookies)
For the Cookies:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup peeled, diced fresh or canned peaches (if using canned, drain well)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, to help peaches stay firm in the dough)
For the Streusel Topping:
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Optional Additions
- White Chocolate Chips: Add ½ cup for a sweeter, more indulgent cookie.
- Almond Extract: Add a touch of almond extract to the dough for a nutty undertone that complements the peaches.
- Nutmeg: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg to enhance the warming spices.
Tips for Success
- Fresh vs. Canned Peaches: Fresh peaches will give the cookies a vibrant, juicy flavor, but canned peaches can work if you’re out of season. Be sure to drain canned peaches well.
- Chill the Dough: Chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to help prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir in the peaches gently to avoid breaking them down too much, which can make the dough too wet.
Instructions
- Prepare the Streusel Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until crumbs form. Set aside.
- Make the Cookie Dough:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the diced peaches. If your peaches are very juicy, toss them with the cornstarch before adding them to the dough.
- Chill the Dough:
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Form the Cookies:
- Scoop about 1 ½ tablespoons of dough per cookie onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of the streusel topping over each cookie, gently pressing it into the top of the dough.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set but still soft. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Description
These Peach Cobbler Cookies are like little bites of summer in cookie form. They feature soft, buttery dough with bursts of juicy peaches and a crispy, sweet streusel topping that mimics the beloved crumble of a classic peach cobbler. The cinnamon and brown sugar add warmth and depth to each bite, making these cookies irresistible.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: ~140 kcal
- Protein: ~2g
- Fat: ~7g
- Carbohydrates: ~20g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sugars: ~12g
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While these cookies are an indulgent treat, they can be made a bit lighter by reducing the sugar slightly or using whole wheat flour for added fiber. The peaches bring natural sweetness and vitamin C, so you can enjoy these cookies knowing you’re indulging in a little fruity goodness too. Pairing them with a cup of tea or coffee makes for a delightful and satisfying snack.