Sourdough Peach Cobbler (Perfect Christmas Dessert Recipe)

There’s something magical about the smell of peaches and vanilla bubbling away in the oven on a cold December evening. This Sourdough Peach Cobbler brings that cozy magic right to your table.

The gentle tang of sourdough balances the sweetness of caramelized peaches, while the golden top turns crisp and buttery as it bakes. It’s one of those desserts that feels like home — comforting, warm, and full of love. Whether you’re using a bubbly starter or sourdough discard, the result is always delicious.

The best part is how simple it is to prepare, even during the busy Christmas rush. With just a few pantry staples and ripe peaches, you can create a festive dessert that fills your kitchen with irresistible holiday aromas. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ll see why everyone comes back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Sourdough Peach Cobbler

This cobbler is everything you want in a Christmas dessert. It’s tangy, buttery, and perfectly sweet, with soft peaches nestled under a golden sourdough crust. The sourdough starter adds a lovely depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the fruit’s natural sweetness. Also, the texture is ideal — crisp on top and tender inside.

You can make it with fresh, canned, or frozen peaches, which makes it easy for any season. Plus, the batter can rest for a few hours for a deeper sourdough flavor, which helps busy bakers plan ahead. It’s an easy, no-fuss dessert that tastes as if you spent all day baking. In fact, it’s the kind of dish that becomes a family favorite, especially when served after a big holiday meal with a little whipped cream or ice cream on top.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Peach Filling

Use fresh peaches for the best flavor. Melted butter helps them caramelize beautifully, while a mix of brown and white sugar adds depth and balance. Cornstarch thickens the filling so it’s glossy and rich. Lemon juice brightens the flavor and keeps it from tasting too sweet. Vanilla bean paste adds a fragrant warmth that feels festive.

For the Sourdough Batter

You’ll combine flour, brown and white sugars, baking powder, and salt for the dry base. Then mix in melted butter, milk, and vanilla for richness. The sourdough starter gives a subtle tang and tender crumb that makes this cobbler unique. It’s light but flavorful, and it rises perfectly as it bakes.

For the Topping

A simple sprinkle of brown sugar creates a golden, caramelized crust. It melts into the fruit and batter, adding sweetness and crunch.

How to Make Sourdough Peach Cobbler

Prep the Peaches

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Peel and slice the peaches, then toss them with melted butter, both sugars, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla. The mixture should look glossy and fragrant. If you’re using canned or frozen peaches, drain them first and add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch to help thicken the juices.

Make the Batter

In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugars, baking powder, and salt. Add melted butter, milk, vanilla, and sourdough starter. Mix until smooth and slightly thick. If you want a deeper sourdough flavor, cover the bowl and let it sit for a few hours, or refrigerate overnight. This rest time brings a light tang and improves the texture.

Assemble the Cobbler

Pour about three-quarters of the peach mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish or a large cast iron skillet. Spread the sourdough batter evenly over the top. Then spoon the remaining peaches and syrupy juices across the surface. Finally, sprinkle a generous layer of brown sugar on top.

Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes. The top should turn golden brown, and the edges will bubble with sweet peach filling. The aroma will fill your kitchen with warmth and anticipation.

Cool and Serve

Let the cobbler cool for about 20–30 minutes before serving. This rest helps the filling set. Serve warm with vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a true holiday treat.

Tips for Success

Use yellow freestone peaches for the best texture and taste. If using canned or frozen peaches, always drain them well to prevent excess liquid. Balance sweetness by tasting your fruit first; adjust sugar if needed. Also, bake the cobbler in a cast iron skillet for extra crisp edges. Don’t skip the cooling time, as it helps the juices thicken. If you like a more rustic texture, sprinkle coarse sugar before baking. To prevent soggy bottoms, avoid prepping the peach filling too early. Remember, your oven may vary, so check the cobbler a few minutes before the timer ends.

Variations and Substitutions

For a warm twist, add cinnamon, nutmeg, or a splash of bourbon to the peaches. You can also swap peaches for nectarines or berries. If you prefer a biscuit-style topping, thin your sourdough biscuit dough with milk and vanilla before spooning it over the fruit. To skip the sourdough, replace it with ⅓ cup of flour and ¼ cup of milk or water. Each variation keeps that cozy, old-fashioned charm, making it easy to adapt to your pantry and preferences.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can mix the batter in advance and refrigerate it for up to 12 hours. This slow fermentation deepens flavor and makes baking stress-free. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving to restore the crisp top. Freezing isn’t ideal because peaches can soften, but you can freeze baked portions for up to two months if well wrapped.

Expert Baking Notes

Sourdough discard works perfectly here. It adds a mild tang and extra moisture without needing a rise. If your filling seems too runny, add a bit more cornstarch next time. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil. Check that the center is fully baked by ensuring it’s set and no longer wet. For even baking, rotate the pan halfway through. Little adjustments like these guarantee a perfect cobbler every time.

Serving Ideas

Serve your Sourdough Peach Cobbler warm with vanilla bean ice cream for classic comfort. You can also top it with cinnamon whipped cream or drizzle with caramel sauce for extra indulgence. During the holidays, pair it with a cup of Homemade eggnog for festive holiday gatherings. The balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors makes every bite unforgettable.

Other Recipes You May Enjoy

• Classic fruit cobbler with warm holiday spices
• Buttery soft Christmas cherry cookies
• Christmas sugar cookie bars with a chewy center
• Chewy maple cinnamon cookies for winter cravings
• Easy frozen peach bellini for summer celebrations

Conclusion

This Sourdough Peach Cobbler is the kind of dessert that turns any Christmas evening into something special. The mix of tangy starter, buttery crust, and juicy peaches feels nostalgic and new all at once. It’s easy to make, even easier to love, and guaranteed to impress your guests. Whether you’re baking for family or friends, it’s the perfect sweet ending to a holiday meal. Try it this season, and don’t forget to share your results or leave a comment — I’d love to hear how it turns out! You can also find more festive inspiration on Pinterest.